SWINE PRODUCTION 303 



In some lots have permanent grasses and clovers growing in their 

 seasons. In others have Dwarf Essex Rape or turnips for spring and fall 

 seasons. Have small grains growing for winter greens, and also winter 

 vetch and crimson clover in regions where they will thrive. Provide 

 fresh green growth for the hot, dry weeks of summer, using thickly sown 

 kafir, sorghum, Sudan, cowpeas, soybeans, and sweet corn. Have some 

 good shade in the pasture for protection in hot weather. 



Pastures not only provide the green succulence neces- 

 sary for the health and growth of pigs, but the necessary 

 exercise, the protein for the ration, and much of the mineral 

 matter. Pigs on pasture will make more rapid growth and 

 cheaper gains than any others. They are healthier and have 

 better frame-work because of good pasturage- 

 Care at Farrowing Time, Try to provide quarters for 

 the sow where she will be very comfortable, neither too cold 

 nor too hot. Provide bedding that is easily moved, as cut- 

 up straw, chaff free from dust, or wood shavings from a plan- 

 ing mill. Avoid long tangled straw that would entrap the 

 pigs and cause them to be mashed. Keep her bed clean at all 

 times. Have the quarters dry and free from -drafts of air. 



Before farrowing time the sow should have bran mashes 

 made with slum milk or butter milk. Some tankage may 

 well be mixed with it. She must have plenty of mineral 

 matter to eat as given in this chapter. With such feed she 

 will not only be in good health but she is less likely to eat her 

 young pigs. Continue to use such feeds after farrowing also. 



Make the sows gentle by scratching, rubbing, talking 

 kindly, and petting when among them. No rough treatment 

 should ever be allowed. Watch sows closely at farrowing 

 time and help pigs and mother if needed. Sows that have had 

 proper feed and exercise seldom have trouble at this time. 

 Do not interfere if the sow is quiet and the pigs seem strong. 



If the place is cold and the pigs seem weak, they may be placed in a 

 nest box lined with warm carpet, containing a hot water bottle, and all 

 covered with a blanket. Place the pigs in this drying nest until dry and 

 ready to nurse. A drink of the mother's warm milk very soon after birth, 

 is important. Strong pigs need no help to get this, but the weak ones 

 may need your help at first. If a pig seems dead when he comes 



