Just as you prepare your animals for the show ring, you will need to plan with your parents and project advisors for how the Veterinary Feed Directive (VFD) will affect your future exhibitions. This series of handouts provides information to help you understand the VFD. The Veterinary Feed Directive Regulation Update explains VFD changes that […]

A hot fair leaves fair exhibitors looking for coolness for both themselves and their fair animals. When temperatures reach above 80 degrees and the relative humidity is above 65 percent, comfort is certainly compromised. This kind of weather can be especially deadly for swine, as they have non- functioning sweat glands. Effects of heat stress […]

In Wisconsin, young people have the privilege of being able to raise and care for livestock through involvement in youth based organizations such as 4-H and FFA. The opportunity to learn about how they function, such as genetics, meat science, health and many others introduces youth to a number of essential skills that contribute to […]

Ractopamine-free swine production is now a market specification/requirement throughout much of the U.S. pork packing industry.  Ractopamine remains an FDA approved product that can be legally fed in the U.S. at approved levels and approved time periods in the life of a market-destined hog.  However, restrictions from trade partners have led to its removal from […]

Source: Kansas State Show Pig Guide (2019) and used with permission from Dr. Joel DeRouchey, Kansas State University Starting your pig off right Allow free access to feed and clean water at all times From 50 to 150 pounds a 1.20% to 30% total lysine diet is generally fed From 150 pounds until show day, […]

Adapted with permission from Ohio State University Extension, “A Ractopamine-Free Swine Project” and “A Ractopamine-Free Swine Project – Primer” Introduction Ractopamine-free swine production is now a market specification/requirement throughout much of the U.S. pork packing industry. Ractopamine remains an FDA approved product that can be legally fed in the U.S. at approved levels and approved […]

Adapted with permission from Ohio State University Extension, “A Ractopamine-Free Swine Project” Introduction Ractopamine-free swine production is now a market specification/requirement throughout much of the U.S. pork packing industry. Ractopamine (sold under the trade names Paylean® or Engain® for swine, and Optaflexx® or Actogain® for cattle and other generic derivatives) is an approved product used […]