As farmers, our mission every day is to ensure that our pigs are not only well-fed and comfortable but also thriving in a healthy environment. Raising pigs is a commitment that starts at sunrise and often ends long after sunset. Here’s a closer look at our daily routines and the steps we take to provide the best care possible for our animals.
Checking In: Morning and Evening Routines
Each day, we make it a priority to walk through our pens twice, in the morning and evening. During these walks, we closely inspect each pen, checking feeders and waterers to make sure they’re working correctly. Access to fresh water and nutritious feed is crucial for our pigs’ well-being and growth, so we make sure no detail is overlooked.
But it’s not just about the equipment. We’re also observing the pigs themselves, looking for signs of good health like alertness, energy, and bright eyes. If anything seems unusual—such as a pig lying down for too long or showing signs of discomfort—we can address it immediately. Our goal is to spot any issues early, so we can take action right away.
Feeding from the Farm: How We Make Our Pig Feed
Our pigs’ diet is largely sourced right here on our farm, with over 90% of their feed consisting of corn and soybean meal. Growing our own corn not only allows us to control the quality, but it also reduces our environmental footprint by cutting down on transportation.
While we also grow soybeans, pigs cannot digest whole soybeans. Instead, we send our soybeans to a local facility (CHS) about five miles away, where the oil is extracted, leaving behind soybean meal. This meal, rich in protein, is the perfect supplement for our pigs, so we bring it back to the farm and mix it into their feed.
We don’t just stop at corn and soybean meal. Following recommendations from our trusted animal nutritionist, we add essential vitamins and minerals to the feed to ensure our pigs receive a balanced diet tailored to their growth and health needs. This custom blend of nutrients supports our pigs in every stage of their life, from young piglets to market-ready hogs.
Health and Wellness: Working with Our Veterinarian
Caring for pigs is not just about feeding and housing; it also requires careful health management. While we strive to keep our pigs as healthy as possible, just like people, they can occasionally get sick. When this happens, we work closely with our veterinarian to create a treatment plan that will bring them back to health as quickly and safely as possible.
If antibiotics are necessary, we follow strict guidelines to ensure their safe and responsible use. A prescription is required, and we keep meticulous records to track any treatment given. Importantly, we respect the mandatory drug withdrawal period, meaning that no pig leaves our farm for market until we are sure any medication is completely out of their system. As an added measure, all pigs are tested for antibiotic residue at the packing plant, ensuring that the meat is safe for consumers.
Our Commitment to Raising Healthy Pigs
At the heart of everything we do is a commitment to raising healthy pigs. This is more than just a job; it’s a responsibility that we take very seriously. Healthy pigs mean quality pork for consumers, and we’re proud to play our part in providing safe and nutritious food for families across the country.
Being on the farm each day, we witness firsthand the impact that small, consistent actions have on our pigs’ well-being. From maintaining clean, comfortable living conditions to making thoughtful decisions about their diet and health, we are dedicated to a farming approach that prioritizes animal welfare, sustainability, and quality.
Thank you for following along with us on this journey. We’re proud to open the barn doors a little wider and share a glimpse of life on our farm!
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