Frequently asked questions to help defend pigs

Being a great advocate for pigs means you need to know your stuff!
Here are some commonly asked questions that will help you speak out for pigs.

Do the pigs really suffer?

Confined pigs can suffer from boredom, apathy and depression. They are also prone to lameness and painful chronic joint disorders as well as heart, lung, urinary and digestive diseases. Sow stalls cause severe stress resulting in unnatural behaviours such as head weaving and bar biting.

Is factory farming really that bad?

Factory farming is particularly cruel as pigs are highly intelligent and social animals. Pigs need continual stimulation, social interaction and lots of open space. Factory farming deprives pigs of their most basic needs: fresh air, sunlight, mud baths, clean water, soft bedding and fresh food. Pigs are regarded much like cars - units there to make a profit. There is little room for compassion on the factory farm.

What are the alternatives to factory farming?

Group housing and free-range farming offer a better quality of life for pigs and improve their welfare. Free-range farms offer pigs a better life but they are not pig sanctuaries. Free-range pigs are still killed for their meat. For those who oppose the killing of animals choosing a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle is the best way to save animals.

Farming pigs outside is too expensive?

Many pig farmers already farm their sows outside and they sell their products at the same price as intensive farmers. Meat from outdoor-farmed fattening pigs is around 20 per cent more expensive. A small price to pay for a much better quality of life.

Don’t outdoor pigs suffer greater welfare problems?

Outdoor farmed pigs enjoy a much happier and healthier life than indoor farmed pigs. Any welfare problems that arise are usually caused by poor management and can largely be avoided through better education and training of pig farmers.

Did you know. . .

Pigs love eating berries, nuts, cabbages, roots and insects.

Pigs are among the most intelligent species akin to humans, primates, dolphins and whales.

Pigs are quick learners and have an acute sense of smell. They have even been used by police departments to sniff out drugs!

Pigs can recognise up to 20-30 other pigs and often form friendships, greeting each other with grunting and nose-to-nose contact.

Squeal like a pig! The sound of a frightened pig can measure 115 decibels. A jet engine taking off measures 113 decibels!