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Research by Wageningen University & Research commissioned by the Coalition Vitale Varkenshouderij (CoViVa) examines the question of how pig keeping with a curly tail (i.e. without docking) can be made possible, from the perspective of the chain approach. The results are based on model-based calculations, using literature and interviews for the assumptions.
To stop tail docking and minimise the risk of tail biting, pig farmers need to make adjustments in several areas. For example, adjusting the barn (pen layout), barn climate, and feed. Additional labour and craftsmanship are also required. The extra costs of keeping pigs with uncut tails vary between €9 and €26 per delivered pig. However, costs can vary widely from farm to farm.
Even in favourable conditions, tail biting takes place. It is assumed that 5-15% of delivered undocked pigs will suffer damage to their tails and not qualify for possible compensation from the buyer. This could be paid out for pigs whose tails are intact. Therefore, the yield of pigs whose tails are in good condition should cover the additional cost of all animals delivered. For the yield of a pig with its tail intact to remain profitable, the buyer of an animal must start paying 10 to 31 euros more for a pig with its tail in good condition. A large proportion of farms are expected to face costs at the upper end of this range; therefore, a required fee between 17 and 31 euros per pig with tail in good condition is recommended.
Added to this is the fact that pig farmers will need several years to learn to deal with pigs with curly tails. This is evidenced by experiences at home and abroad. The compensation per pig in the first few years should therefore be another EUR 3 higher than the stated compensation of EUR 10-31 per animal delivered.
June 20, 2023/ Wageningen University & Research/ Netherlands.
https://www.wur.nl
