Taming Gilts – The Approach Test
Michel Launay, European Technical Manager, develops 3 types of approaches to gilts in quarantine:
– Visual
– Sonorous
– Olfactory
Recommendations for best heat detection
1 November 2021
Proposed by
Choice
Speaker(s)
Duration
2'54
Summary
Curtis Boos, technical expert specialized in insemination, gives us all the recommendations for best heat detection.
Current rating
1
Introduction
At this 1500 head sow farm, it is Tuesday and breeding technicians are checking sows for heat. Some at the end of their heat cycle, may no longer be in heat. A few are just beginning to come into heat.
2
Using a Heat Check Boar
This heat check boar is trained and knows exactly what to do. It is important to have at least 2 boars to use for heat detection.
3
Stimulating the Sow
Pressure on the back and pulling on the flank are good stimulation techniques to determine if the sow is in heat. The idea is to mimic what a boar would do in a natural service setting.
4
Heat Checking the Sow
The technician is using backpressure to check if sows are still in heat and ready to receive another insemination. If she does not become immobilized, she should not receive an additional insemination.
5
Signs of a Sow in Heat
When a boar gets close to a sow in heat, she stands up and becomes perfectly still with her ears erect. This sow is in standing heat. The position of the boar directly in front of the sow and with nose-to-nose contact is perfect for heat detection.
6
Signs of a Sow in Heat
Another characteristic of a sow in heat is a swollen and red vulva like this one.
7
Boar Placement During Insemination
When you use an aisle gate, it is best to have one gate for every 5 or 6 sows
