Many of these animals have excessive hoof growth and they are more likely to become overheated and stressed because packing plant workers prod them more to keep up with the high speed operation. Hogs reared on totally slotted floors are also balky. Prior to shipping, these hogs should be given an opportunity to walk on solid concrete. Observation at packing plants have also indicated that some groups of hogs reared in enclosed buildings are highly excitable which makes driving difficult. It is also possible to get animals so tame that driving is difficult.
More research needs to be conducted before specific recommendations can be made.
Hog reaction to people in the pens and toys will vary depending upon type of housing, genetics, husbandry procedures, and other factors. Conclusion Good handling facilities, knowledge of pig behavior, and consistent, gentle handling will help make your operation more productive and profitable. The influence of inconsistent handling by humans on the behaviour, growth and corticosteroids of young pigs. Behavior and performance of weanling pigs in pens equipped with hide areas. Effects of heat and social stressors and within-pen weight variation on young pig performance and agonistic behavior.