Weather Can Change Quickly – Be Prepared
As winter weather rapidly shifts across key hog-producing regions, ensuring animal welfare and transport safety is critical. With frigid temperatures expected, hog transporters must take extra precautions to prevent frostbite, stress, and even mortality in extreme conditions.
Failing to plan for sub-zero transport could lead to serious welfare concerns, impacting both pigs and operations. Checking weather conditions, road reports, and preparing trailers accordingly before departure is essential.
Fitness for Transport – Know the Guidelines
Determining which hogs are fit for transport is even more important in cold weather. The Fitness for Transport Fact Sheet outlines categories:
✅ Fit for transport without restrictions – Hogs that are healthy and able to endure the journey.
✅ Fit for transport with special provisions – Animals that require additional care, such as bedding, spacing, or ventilation adjustments.
✅ Unfit for transport – Pigs that are injured, weak, or compromised should never be transported in extreme cold.
💡 Cold Weather Protocols:
✔ Use proper trailer panels and bedding to maintain warmth.
✔ Follow Transport Quality Assurance (TQA) guidelines to reduce stress and prevent losses.
Truck Load Calculations – Space & Safety Matter
How many hogs can be transported per load? Manufacturer recommendations and TQA requirements help ensure pigs have enough space based on:
📌 Pig weight – Adjustments must be made for different weight classes.
📌 Trailer dimensions – Proper spacing helps reduce crowding and allows pigs to regulate body heat.
📌 Weather conditions – Extra bedding and wind protection may be required.
🚛 Need guidance? The Truck Load Calculations Fact Sheet provides specific spacing recommendations for different conditions.
Stay Informed & Ensure Compliance
For producers in Alberta and beyond, understanding and following best practices for cold-weather hog transport can help protect animal welfare, business sustainability, and compliance with TQA standards.
For more information, contact:
Cristina Neva
Alberta Pork Quality Assurance and Production Specialist
📞 Phone: 780-440-8458
📞 Toll-Free: 1-877-247-PORK (7675)
📧 Email: cristina.neva@albertapork.com
Final Reminder: Plan Ahead for Extreme Cold
Producers and transporters should monitor weather conditions, adjust loading plans, and use proper bedding and trailer panels to minimize risks during winter travel. Ensuring pigs arrive at their destination healthy and stress-free is a priority for all involved in the supply chain.
