Phase 2.1: Producer Trials
Selection of the ten sites will be made after this initial survey has been analyzed and then they will be provided with on-site training and the Zephyr-EXL euthanasia system. Production sites will be selected that represent all facets of the industry (representative sample) and that agree to participate in a 4 month evaluation of the system.
Initial Benchmark Survey
(click here for the on-line survey)
The survey is based on current euthanasia procedures (i.e. methods utilized, number of piglets euthanized, etc.). Selection of the ten sites will be made after this initial survey has been analyzed and then they will be provided with on-site training and the Zephyr-EXL euthanasia system.
Professionally Train Producers
Professional training of the producers will be based on and provided by the University of Bristol, Langford, United Kingdom.
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Provide Equipment: Zephyr-EXL System
(click here for Zephyr-E Training Videos by the University of Guelph)
(click here for Zephyr-E Training Videos by Canada Egg Farmers / University of Manitoba)
The Zephyr-EXL euthanasia system (Zephyr-EXL, air compressor, swine restraint) will be provided to ten swine production facilities following a preliminary survey.
Zephyr-EXL Captive Bolt
Portable Air Compressor
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Swine (<20lb) Restraint System
Swine restraint fits cross-wise on pen.
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20 lb piglet calm in restraint
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Producers Track 4 Month Usage
Following training the operator will track the number of piglets euthanized, the size/maturity of the piglet euthanized and the euthanasia effectiveness daily. These results will be combined into a comprehensive survey to determine the reliability and robustness of the system and any suggested improvements of the technology.
Benchmark with Post-Study Survey
TBD