All pigs are purchased form vendors with an animal health surveillance program and guarantee that their animals are free of specific pig diseases. Pigs held at ACS for long term studies receive annual vaccinations against Leptospirosis and Erysipelas. Upper respiratory tract infections may pose a problem if the temperature of the animal holding room is not warm enough. Maintaining the room temperature at approximately 75 degrees F at pig level is an important factor in prevention of upper respiratory disease. Pigs are also susceptible to dry skin.
Pigs are routinely massaged with mineral oil to keep their skin moist.