How do farmers properly care for their animals?

“On our farm, animal care is the top priority,” says Peggy Greenway, farmer from Mitchell, South Dakota. She and her husband raise hogs and always look for ways to improve conditions for the animals on their farm. Watch the video to find out what big changes they made to improve the comfort of the animals on their farm.

With indoor facilities, farmers can better monitor animals’ health, keep them from harming each other and manage their diet more precisely. Also, sick animals can be kept separate from others. Housing situations for all livestock vary slightly depending on the species. Each species has their own needs, but warm, comfortable shelter is a priority for all farmers to ensure their animals’ health and safety.

Peggy says they are very pleased with their decision to the switch to indoor housing. When they kept their pigs outside, they spent a lot of time bedding them down with straw and cleaning pens out by hand. It was difficult to keep them dry and warm in the winter. When they are safe and comfortable indoors, Peggy knows they are providing the best care for their animals.

Read more from Peggy:

• Animal Welfare – Common Ground
• What I’m up to this winter: Part One, Part Two, Part Three
• How to Cook a Juicy Pork Loin