Thompson’s tip: Get cover for reduced fertility

Last year many herds suffered from reduced fertility in both summer and autumn. On many units this is a predictable effect says Paul Thompson, veterinary consultant to pig- breeding company, ACMC Ltd.

Increasing services over the risk period is essential to compensate for the reduced farrowing rates and to ensure that finishing accommodation is stocked at the optimum level

Gilt inputs need to be lifted to maintain throughput without retaining old, less-productive sows in their later parities. Now is the time to speak to breeding stock suppliers to ensure replacements are lined up, he advises.