Danish pigs enjoying better conditions

A drastic fall in number of farmers being sanctioned

Pigs in Denmark are enjoying better welfare, according to a new report from the Environment and Food Ministry.

The report, which was produced by the Knowledge Centre for Animal Welfare, showed that about 25 percent of pig farms received a sanction for poor pig welfare last year – down considerably from 40-50 percent in previous years.

“The progress confirms that most farmers do their best to ensure the animals are faring well,” said Eva Kjer Hansen, the environment and food minister. “It’s also worth noting that the infringements taking place now are at the milder end of the spectrum.”

READ MORE: Reduction of antibiotic use and more welfare inspections for Danish pigs

Can get better
But there is still room for improvement, argued Hansen.

The pig farmers need to get better at giving their animals straw or other rooting and occupational materials.

Moreover, there are examples in which hurt and sick animals have not been properly cared for.