PED Information

Apr 22, 2014

Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea Virus

To date, the rate of PEDv infection continues to decline. Currently, similar proportions of infections are being reported in finisher and farrow to finish/nursery operations. These infections may be the result of PEDv contaminated vehicles entering the premises, breaches in on-farm biosecurity and previously-infected younger animals moving through the production system. While it is suspected that PEDv initially entered Ontario in feed ingredients, the virus continues to circulate and remains an ongoing risk to the Ontario pork industry. The cooperation of all levels of industry and government has been essential in minimising the impacts of PED to the Ontario pork industry. Vigilance and strong biosecurity at the farm level, diligent cleaning and disinfection by transporters, renderers, processors and other service providers will be imperative to reduce the viral load and prevent further dissemination of PEDv within Ontario and neighbouring provinces.

OMAF-funded research will soon begin at the Ontario Veterinary College to learn more from the PED outbreak experience.

PED has become established in the United States, and other pathogens like Delta coronavirus present new threats. The efforts made to prevent the spread of PED must continue as regular business practices as the industry manages these risks and moves forward. Growing Forward 2 and OMAF funding to Ontario Pork will continue to strengthen efforts in the areas of greatest risk and provide the necessary infrastructure and education to help meet these challenges. Federal officials continue to work with the USDA to reduce the risk of contaminated feed stuffs entering Canada.

PED is considered an emerging significant disease in Ontario, and veterinarians are still required to report suspect cases to OMAF under the Animal Health Act. OMAF will continue to cover the cost of diagnostic testing of clinical suspects at the Animal Health Laboratory until further notice, and will continue to offer support to veterinarians and their clients in the management of PED cases. Testing of non-clinical or environmental samples will not be covered by OMAF. Producers are encouraged to work with their veterinarian to prevent PEDv infections or to contain or eliminate the virus from infected farms.

Source: OntarioPork

Video: Sorting Ewes & Rams | Breeding Time On The Farm!

In this episode, we’re sorting ewes into their breeding groups and introducing them to unrelated rams. Moving rams between barns always comes with challenges, but once the boys meet their ewes, everyone was eager to settle in!

We also welcome back a returning customer who purchased a Suffolk ram from us last year. This season, she chose a Dorset cross ram, now named Benny, to strengthen her flock’s genetics. It’s always rewarding to see repeat customers who value the quality of our breeding stock.

Arnie then tours the crop fields as harvest season approaches. Despite drought conditions this summer, the crops are looking surprisingly good. We close the day with evening feedings and one last look at the rams with their new breeding groups.

?? Join us daily for life on a working sheep farm, from flock management and breeding strategies to crops, chores, and the everyday rhythm of farm life.