On farm monitoring of pig welfare

The objective of this book is to provide a scientifically-based outline for how to evaluate the welfare of pigs at a farm level. Attention is focused on the assessment of the validation of the inferred indicators and parameters, and the validity, reliability and the feasibility of the measuring methods. The book includes mainly animal-based parameters, although other environmentally-based and management-based parameters are also described. These issues are elaborated by well-known experts in their field of work, i.e. fundamental and applied research on all aspects related to the production of pigs. This unique approach has added-value compared to other books because ideas developed in laboratory conditions are discussed here in relation to constraints experienced in field work. Readers from various disciplines will find this critical analysis of the on-farm monitoring of pig welfare useful in relation to the development of certification procedures, the evaluation of production systems (farm, transport, slaughter), the analysis and solving of welfare related problems and in the development of new research projects.