Pig Health

John Carr, Shih-Ping Chen, Joseph F. Connor, Roy Kirkwood, Joaquim Segalés

• Publisher: CRC Press
• Year: 2018
• Print ISBN: 9781498704724
• eBook ISBN: 9781498704748
• Edition: 1
• Topic: Medicine
• Subtopic: Veterinary Medicine

Maintaining the health of pigs is vital in pig farming and production. This new book written by experts from around the world focuses on the health of pigs, first with coverage of the disorders of pigs organised by clinical sign and body system. The book explores environmental medicine and then health maintenance. Treatment options are discussed, emphasizing a reduction in antimicrobial use and an increased awareness of a holistic approach to treatment. The book includes over 1, 500 high-quality illustrations to enhance the clinical description, as well as a wealth of high-quality videos to test the reader in making differential diagnoses with treatment options. Quizzes at the end of each section also encourage reflective learning.

International experts from the UK, USA, Australia, Spain and Taiwan cover clinical examination of the individual pig and groups along with environmental medicine, making this the ideal reference for veterinary practitioners and students. Those interested in population medicine (poultry, aquaculture, cattle and small ruminant and apiaries) will particularly enjoy the holistic approach to veterinary medicine. All those who appreciate the many talents of pigs will enjoy the practical approach to managing the health of their animals.

This book moves veterinary science forward, promoting health rather than treating disease. It will be your number one reference for keeping your pigs healthy.

CHAPTER 1

CLINICAL EXAMINATION

‘All groups are composed of individuals’

In order to carry out an examination of a pig it is important for the veterinarian to understand the normal behaviour, posture, vocalisation and alarm postures. Knowing the normal is necessary in order to be able to recognise the abnormal.

EXAMINATION OF THE PIG ALONE OR IN A GROUP

Introduction

In general practice, a detailed individual examination of a pig is rarely performed. It is, however, essential that you know the basics. All groups of pigs are made up of individuals and if you think that the problem is novel, a thorough examination from nose to tail is still required. To perform a clinical examination, it is important to follow a set procedure. Remember, more is missed from not looking than from not knowing. It will prove very useful to train with one or two colleagues. Verbally describing to each other what you are doing trains your mind in the required sequence.

Taking a history and making a start

It is essential to ask appropriate questions and then to wait and listen to answers given by the client. Watch the client’s face to check for answers that may be difficult. Sometimes, if the client has missed something, they may not want to admit to making a mistake.

Talk to the client and consider the following line of enquiry (Table 1.1). History taking will continue after entering the building/room/pen and while examining the pigs as a group or as individuals.

• Prior to entry into the room (Figures 1.1, 1.2, 1.3.)

• Quietly enter the room.

• Listen. Quietly listen to the pigs for any change in normal pig noises. Of course, you need to know what are normal pig noises. This can only be achieved by spending time with pigs and observing them under normal non-stressed conditions. Recognising normal pig chatter is an i...

Table of contents

• Cover
• Half Title
• Title Page
• Copyright Page
• Table of Contents
• Preface
• Acknowledgements
• Dedications
• Abbreviations
• eResources
• 1    CLINICAL EXAMINATION
• 2    REPRODUCTIVE DISORDERS
• 3    RESPIRATORY DISORDERS
• 4    DISORDERS OF THE DIGESTIVE TRACT
• 5    DISORDERS OF THE LOCOMOTOR SYSTEM
• 6    DISORDERS OF THE NEUROLOGICAL SYSTEM
• 7    URINARY DISORDERS
• 8    IMMUNE SYSTEM DISORDERS
• 9    DISORDERS OF THE SKIN
• 10  ENVIRONMENTAL MEDICINE
• 11  PIG HEALTH MAINTENANCE
• Appendices
• Index