Enhancing Piglet Immunity through Sow Vitamin Supplementation

Aug 12, 2024

Researchers from Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, CDPQ, and the Western College of Veterinary Medicine are investigating the effects of increased vitamin supplementation for sows during gestation. This study aims to improve piglet immunity against diarrhea by enhancing the immune response to vaccinations, potentially reducing the need for antibiotics and high levels of zinc oxide in their diet. Early findings suggest positive outcomes, and detailed results will be shared at industry events and published in academic journals.

Dr. Martin Nyachoti from the University of Manitoba highlighted that preliminary data indicates piglets born to supplemented sows exhibit stronger immune responses and better health. The goal is to provide a practical, cost-effective solution to common piglet health issues, benefiting both animal welfare and farm productivity.

Source : Swine Web

Video: Post-Weaning E. coli Control - Dr. Rodrigo Paiva

In this episode of The Swine it Podcast Show Canada, Dr. Rodrigo Paiva, DVM and PhD candidate at Iowa State University, explains how post weaning colibacillosis has changed in recent years and why pathogenic Escherichia coli has become more important in swine production. He discusses virulence factors, diagnosis, whole genome sequencing, biosecurity, and practical strategies to reduce disease risk while improving herd health. Listen now on all major platforms!

"Pathogenic E. coli now behaves like a robust, well-equipped truck carrying multiple tools for post-weaning disease."

Meet the guest: Dr. Rodrigo Paiva / rodrigo-paiva-09364355 is a veterinarian and PhD candidate at Iowa State University specializing in swine health, veterinary epidemiology, and post weaning colibacillosis. After several years working in commercial swine production in Brazil, his research has focused on understanding pathogenic Escherichia coli and improving disease prevention in modern production systems. Listen to Dr. Rodrigo Paiva on The Swine it Podcast Show Canada, available on all major platforms.