What is new in the world of pigs in Canada?

Jan 10, 2023

One of the recent developments in Canada’s swine industry is a new training programme starting in December in Manitoba, Canada’s largest pig-producing province. About 14,000 Manitobans depend on the hog sector for their livelihoods, with over 2,500 working directly on farms as technicians and managers.

Assiniboine Community College will offer the new swine production technician course starting next month. It consists of 3 self-directed online courses. Students will learn regulations (mainly the national Code of Practice for the Care and Handling of Pigs), health and safety, record keeping and maintenance of barns and barn systems. They will also learn production practices related to production at various life stages, pig health care and breeding. Students will also build communication and conflict resolution skills.

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Video: What Causes Ear Necrosis in Pigs? - Alison Jeffery

In this episode of The Swine it Podcast Show Canada, Alison Jeffery, a PhD candidate at the University of Saskatchewan, discusses emerging research on ear necrosis in pigs. She explains the role of Fusobacterium necrophorum, how ear biting may introduce bacteria into damaged tissue, and what researchers are learning about disease progression, welfare, prevention, and future management tools. Listen now on all major platforms!

"Ear necrosis is not only an infectious disease challenge, it is also a welfare issue shaped by behavior, tissue damage, and the farm environment."

Meet the guest: Alison Jeffery / alison-jeffery is a PhD candidate in Large Animal Clinical Sciences at the University of Saskatchewan. Her research focuses on improving swine health and welfare by understanding and mitigating ear necrosis in pigs. Her background includes swine research, producer support, laboratory work, and studies in animal science and veterinary microbiology. Learn more from Alison Jeffery on The Swine it Podcast Show Canada, available on all major platforms.