May2013_LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Dear Editor,

I was surprised to read a Letter to the Editor in the last edition of The Grapevine from a Mr Stitt regarding, amongst other things, the use of nose rings in pigs.  I commend Mr Stitt on his passion for animal welfare and the pig community at large.

His frustration is, however, misdirected.  As a veterinarian and a regular consultant to the RSPCA, I am acutely aware of animal welfare and have dedicated my life to advances in the ethical treatment of animals.

As a veterinarian I do not condone the practice of nose rings as a standard in every pig, but if the individual situation is assessed and it is found to improve the pig’s quality of life, then a nose ring procedure is considered.  My role as a veterinarian is then to ensure the procedure is done in a humane and painless manner.  This includes appropriate anaesthetics, long lasting pain relief, antibiotics and ongoing environmental enrichment.  The alternative is often to lock the pig in a small yard, i.e. an old chook pen, and deny it interaction with the family and access to the rest of the property.  Pigs are very social animals and nose rings mean they can often live in the family’s backyard with constant family interaction, which enhances the pig’s quality of life and strengthens the special pet/owner bond.

To ensure pet pigs with nose rings receive the same stimulation as they may naturally get from digging, we always recommend a kid’s sandpit for them to dig in.  The soft surface allows them to nuzzle the sand with their nose ring in, without sacrificing the lawns where they can play freely, digging out hidden treats.  We also provide a long list of ideas for homemade enrichment toys, and have only seen great results for both pig and owner alike.

I refer to the full discussion that I had with Mr Stitt on our Facebook page for further information on the procedure.  As for our display of the magnificent cockatoo; before referring to the depravity of its natural existence, for our entertainment, please see Georgie’s feature as Pet of the Month in the Old Mill Vet section for the full story.

Sorry Mr Stitt, but you’re barking up the wrong tree!

Warm regards,

Dr Slade Walker

BVSc (Hons) MANZCVS