These pigs are strange to each other and are prone to fighting, just as pigs from different farms are. Therefore, it is wise to load all of the pigs intended for market from one pen before turning pigs from another pen into the same loading or sorting alley. This will prevent fighting in the alley and enhance loading ease. However, fighting may still occur on the truck. Hence, loading rapidly, getting on the road, and keeping moving are important and should be followed.
Bruises make up a large and unnecessary loss to the industry.
Many bruises that result in carcass trim take place during loading and unloading. Whips and hard instruments, such as canes, boot toes and the like, tend to make the pig unnecessarily excited and result in injury and carcass trim. Use electric prods sparingly and with judgment. Using electric prods on confined hogs is generally less effective as compared to non-confined pigs. Success in loading hogs begins with well-designed and maintained loading facilities.