By Swine Web Staff
Reducing stress—both human and animal—is becoming one of the most important factors in moving hogs safely, efficiently, and consistently, according to insights shared by Kevin Brooks of Olymel.
Speaking during the Saskatchewan Pork Industry Symposium 2025 in Saskatoon, Brooks, a production manager with Olymel West who specializes in animal handling and training, emphasized that successful hog movement starts with understanding how pigs naturally think and respond to their environment.
Less Pressure, Better Results
One of the most common mistakes Brooks sees in barns today is trying to move too many pigs at once.
“When pigs receive mixed signals, confusion and stress increase immediately,” Brooks explained. “That stress slows everything down and makes the job harder for both pigs and people.”
Instead of forcing movement, Brooks encourages handlers to slow down, use intentional body positioning, and allow pigs to move at their own pace. This approach aligns with how pigs naturally respond to pressure and space, producing calmer and more predictable outcomes.
Observation Is Replacing Reaction
Over the past three to five years, Brooks says animal handling philosophy has shifted away from forcing reactions and toward observing behavior.
“We’re learning more by watching what the pig is doing instead of trying to trigger a response,” he noted. “When handlers are positioned properly and let pigs move on their own, it creates positive results for animal welfare and for the people doing the work.”
Stress Goes Both Ways
Brooks also highlighted an often-overlooked reality: stress doesn’t just affect pigs—it starts with people.
“If a handler comes into the barn already stressed, that tension carries into animal movement,” he said. “Pigs sense pressure, just like we do.”
Pigs face their own stressors as well, including shadows, depth perception challenges, crowding, aggressive pressure from other pigs, and human interaction. Recognizing pigs as prey animals—and understanding how they interpret their surroundings—can significantly improve handling outcomes.
Adapting Long-Standing Habits
According to Brooks, some of the biggest barriers to improvement come from long-time handlers who are hesitant to change.
“People who have worked with pigs for years often rely on habits that no longer fit what we know today,” he said. “Being open to new approaches has made a real difference in both animal welfare and workplace safety.”
As pork production continues to evolve, Brooks believes education and adaptability will remain key to improving daily barn practices.
This article is based on industry insights shared during the Saskatchewan Pork Industry Symposium 2025. Farmscape content is produced on behalf of North America’s pork producers.
