Conclusions

Ontario Swine
Industry
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This FAAST Review was Meant to:

  1. Describe how swine producers and their veterinarians can practice antimicrobial stewardship without compromising animal health and welfare
  2. Discuss the importance of biosecurity in reducing disease entry and risk
  3. Review how swine producers can tackle diarrhea in piglets and porcine respiratory disease through management and prevention strategies

After this FAAST Review, You Should Now Know:

Section 1:

  • The importance of effective and consistent biosecurity, and its impact on the health of your herd
  • How to mitigate disease risk, thereby reducing the amount of antimicrobials required to maintain a healthy herd
  • The importance of adopting a preventative mindset and preparing for health problems before they arise
  • Where to find useful resources for biosecurity practices in Ontario

Section 2:

  • Diarrhea in piglets is a complex illness and involves interaction between the host, agent (being a bacteria, virus, or parasite), and the environment
  • Hygiene is of the utmost importance to reducing the spread of diarrhea within a herd.
  • Boosting piglet immunity through the provision of high-quality colostrum soon after birth, as well as preventing hypothermia to reduce stress and impaired gut motility
  • When treating diarrhea, antimicrobials are sometimes warranted but oral electrolytes are the hallmark of treatment. Discuss an appropriate protocol for your herd with your veterinarian

Section 3:

  • There are a number of different bacteria and viruses that contribute to PRD in swine. Understanding what the primary pathogens are in your herd can help to tailor treatments for prudent antimicrobial use (and avoid their use when they aren’t warranted)
  • Prevention of PRD is key. Prevention of disease should be the long-term goal of any producer; that way we can prevent improper and unnecessary treatments, as well as avoid any profit losses associated with the disease
  • Focus on biosecurity, AIAO management, ventilation and environmental control, stocking densities, proper nutrition, records, and vaccinations to ensure that you’re adequately protecting your herd. Despite being a costly, complex, and
  • common condition, PRD can be managed. The important thing is that you involve the entirety of your swine team to devise a solution (or multiple solutions) that can be practically and effectively implemented on your farm
FAAST Reviews