Two recent visitors to the Pipestone area have alerted Pipestone System managers to the importance of barn security. The pair visited Pipestone Veterinary Clinic after hours to inquire how puppies are priced in the current economy and asked questions about how puppies are treated. They then made an after-hours visit to a local kennel and attempted to enter locked buildings. They also asked questions about nearby hog operations .
Dr. Carissa Odland of Pipestone Veterinary Clinic advises local livestock producers to be especially vigilant. “It is important to remember that the swine industry and livestock production in general are frequently under a scrutinizing eye. Please be alert. Persons unknown to you may visit your barns so you should take steps to ensure the safety of your employees and animals.”
“Make sure all doors are locked when you leave a barn at the end of the day,” Dr. Odland recommends. “Prepare your employees. If anyone comes to your barn with questions in regard to the facility or swine production, employees should call the owner.” (In the case of Pipestone System barns, Dr. Odland suggests calling her or Pipestone Veterinary Clinic.)
“Pipestone System employees and shareholders have taken steps to ensure that we are producing pigs in a way that respects animal well-being and that we are raising healthy animals to produce safe food,” Dr. Odland explains. “Visits to barns by outsiders who are untrained in pig health and safety could jeopardize animal well-being.”
Pipestone System is committed to the well-being of animals on our farms and during transportation, says Dr. Odland. “At all of our System barns we complete PQA Plus® assessments, swine welfare audits, and conduct swine welfare training.” |