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Hog Transport in Extreme Cold: What Producers Need to Know

Weather Can Change Quickly – Be Prepared

As winter weather rapidly shifts across key hog-producing regions, ensuring animal welfare and transport safety is critical. With frigid temperatures expected, hog transporters must take extra precautions to prevent frostbite, stress, and even mortality in extreme conditions.

Failing to plan for sub-zero transport could lead to serious welfare concerns, impacting both pigs and operations. Checking weather conditions, road reports, and preparing trailers accordingly before departure is essential.

Fitness for Transport – Know the Guidelines

Determining which hogs are fit for transport is even more important in cold weather. The Fitness for Transport Fact Sheet outlines categories:

✅ Fit for transport without restrictions – Hogs that are healthy and able to endure the journey.
✅ Fit for transport with special provisions – Animals that require additional care, such as bedding, spacing, or ventilation adjustments.
✅ Unfit for transport – Pigs that are injured, weak, or compromised should never be transported in extreme cold.

💡 Cold Weather Protocols:
✔ Use proper trailer panels and bedding to maintain warmth.
✔ Follow Transport Quality Assurance (TQA) guidelines to reduce stress and prevent losses.

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Shearing Delay Leads To Kingston 4H Sheep Show!

Video: Shearing Delay Leads To Kingston 4H Sheep Show!

What started as a disappointment turned into a day full of surprises, fun, and celebration as we leave Ewetopia Farms behind and head out to the Kingston Fair to watch the 4H sheep show

Today’s vlog was supposed to be another sheep shearing day here at Ewetopia Farms, but when our shearer had to cancel, we suddenly found ourselves with an unexpected free day. Lucky for us, the Kingston Fair was happening — and some of our own sheep (and friends) were competing!

We brought along our shearing helper and headed to the fairgrounds to cheer on the 4H kids and see how our sheep did in the show. From last-minute preparations and sheep showmanship to market lamb competitions and ewe classes, we take you behind the scenes of what it’s really like at a country fair.

We couldn’t be prouder — our girls walked away with wins in both showmanship and breeding ewe classes! Afterwards, we toured the fair, met a beekeeper with fascinating insights, admired other livestock shows, and wrapped up the evening with motocross stunts and a demolition derby!

Sometimes farm life throws curveballs — but today, it gave us the chance to celebrate community, our sheep, and the next generation of shepherds.