ProHand Pigs® SE

This project aims to improve animal welfare in Swedish pig production through the implementation of a training program for personnel on farms and animal transport companies. Australian scientists have previously developed, validated and successfully implemented a training program aimed for pig farmers; ProHand Pigs®. The training program has been shown to improve stockperson attitudes and handling behavior as well as pig welfare and productivity. We recently evaluated a form of training, based on ProHand Pigs® but aimed for Swedish pig transporter drivers, with positive results. Currently, there is no similar training program available for people working at Swedish pig farms or transportation companies.

The project will run in close collaboration between the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne and the Swedish farm advisory company Gård & Djurhälsan. The specific objectives are to:

• Adapt the ProHand Pigs® training program to personnel on Swedish farms, and develop a complementary module on handling of pigs during transport.
• Map out opportunities for long-term funding and implementation of the training program.
• Establish and improve the ProHand Pigs® SE training program, and train group discussion facilitators.
• Evaluate the effects of two training models on changes in attitudes towards pigs and pig handling.
• Launch and deliver the training program to personnel on farms and animal transport companies.

Project members: 

Sofia Wilhelmsson, Project leader, SLU (THV)

Paul H. Hemsworth, University of Melbourne, Animal Welfare Science Centre

Lauren Hemsworth, University of Melbourne, Animal Welfare Science Centre

Gunnar Johansson, Gård & Djurhälsan

Rebecka Westin, SLU (THV) and Gård & Djurhälsan