Tail Biting in Pigs - (Hardcover)

About the Book

Tail biting is one of the most serious and devastating problems in pig production, and both results from, and causes, animal welfare deficiencies. This book provides a thorough overview of its causes, risk factors, and considers economic and ethical implications.

Book Synopsis

This book provides a comprehensive overview of the issue of tail biting in pigs, one of the most significant welfare and economic problems in the pig industry. With contributions from renowned experts in their fields, it is an essential resource for both scientists, and industry stakeholders. Key topics include the evolutionary roots of the disorder, internal and external risk factors, methods that can be used to address the issue, including human behavioural change, and the wider economic, and ethical considerations. Finally, evidence is provided as to how an intact tail can be used as an ice-berg indicator for overall pig welfare.

About the Author

Keelin O'Driscoll (Ph.D., 2007) is a Senior Research Officer in Teagasc, the Irish Agricultural Development Authority. Her research focuses on improving commercial pig welfare, and she has investigated strategies to reduce the need to tail dock for 10 years.
Anna Valros (Ph.D., 2003) is Professor of Animal Welfare at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki. Pig welfare is her main research area, and she has worked on tail biting related topics for over 20 years.