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The Use of Garlic Oil for Olfactory Enrichment Increases the Use of Ropes in Weaned Pigs

Blackie, N; De Sousa, M

Authors

N Blackie

M De Sousa



Abstract

Pig producers are required to provide environmental enrichment to provide pigs the opportunity to perform investigative and manipulative behaviours (EU directive 2001/93/EC). Preventing enrichment from losing its novelty and decreasing the rate at which animals become habituated is important to maintain use of enrichment over time. A comparative study was formulated to identify whether weaner pigs housed in a semi-barren environment displayed a preference for olfactory enrichment compared to non-scented enrichment. Pigs (n = 146) were selected at 28 days old from two different batches (n = 76 and n = 70) and divided into pens. All pigs were given a control and a treatment (garlic scented) rope. Behavioural observations and rope interactions were assessed through direct observation. Throughout the entire study, the length of interaction with the garlic device was significantly higher (p < 0.02), indicating that there was a preference for olfactory enrichment compared to an odourless device. There was no significant occurrence of tail, ear, or flank biting in both batches. Weaner pigs showed a preference towards olfactory enrichment. Although habituation began to occur, this effect was mitigated by re-spraying the ropes, which resulted in increased interactions.

Citation

Blackie, N., & De Sousa, M. (2019). The Use of Garlic Oil for Olfactory Enrichment Increases the Use of Ropes in Weaned Pigs. Animals, 9(4), 148. https://doi.org/10.3390/ani9040148

Journal Article Type Article
Acceptance Date Apr 3, 2019
Publication Date Apr 5, 2019
Deposit Date Apr 12, 2019
Publicly Available Date Mar 28, 2024
Journal Animals
Publisher MDPI
Peer Reviewed Peer Reviewed
Volume 9
Issue 4
Pages 148
DOI https://doi.org/10.3390/ani9040148
Public URL https://rvc-repository.worktribe.com/output/1382828

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