Here at the Oxford Sandy and Black Pig Group (OSBPG), our supporters all use different watering methods and apparatus, regardless of our systems be it indoors or outdoors, but how do we ensure the water remains clean at all times?
OSBPG advises that it is essential to regularly flush the system to clean out your chosen method of drinker. For instance, during these Winter months when some off us have our pigs housed indoors, nipple drinkers may be used. However, during Spring and Summer the water supply to these drinkers may be turned off and our Oxford Sandy and Black pigs are turned outside, leaving stale water in the system throughout the summer. When Winter comes around again and the pigs are brought back inside, the stale water is turned on. This stagnant water can taste and smell bad and the pigs may refuse to drink it, leading to dehydration and potential health issues.
To prevent this, it is crucial to flush the system once with a disinfectant, followed by a second flush with fresh water.
For those using boreholes, it is important to be aware that traces of iron and manganese can accumulate. Please regularly test your water for these minerals, as well as for e-coli and nitrates, to ensure the water is safe for livestock.
Water offered to our Oxford Sandy and Black pigs and indeed any pig, should be fit for human consumption and maintaining hygiene is a critical factor:
- Bowl drinkers and troughs should be checked daily and cleaned as needed.
- Test water from boreholes at least twice a year.
- Clean and flush the entire water line, including drinkers, pipes, and header tanks, regularly to reduce the buildup of biofilms, especially between batches.
- After flushing, check flow rates and inspect pipework by removing a drinker and checking for residue inside.
- Microbiological, physical and chemical factors can all affect water quality, so if there is any doubt, send samples for analysis.
- Ensure header tanks are completely covered with intact, secure lids to prevent contamination.
- For those using water bowsers, regularly clean them to avoid stale water, biofilm buildup and algae growth.
A useful tip: When flushing pipes and drinkers from the header tank, add food colouring along with the disinfectant. When the colour appears in the drinkers, you will know the system has been thoroughly cleaned.
The Oxford Sandy and Black Pig Group (OSBPG) is the UK’s only pedigree pig breed registered as a charity in both England & Wales (1190469) and Scotland (SCO52662). We are dedicated to creating a better future for the breed by preserving bloodlines and enhancing breeding potential. In partnership with Independent Pork Producers, Breeders, and Oxford Sandy and Black Keepers and their families, we work to strengthen the breed’s dynamics and profile. Your support is invaluable – please click the donate button to help us continue our efforts and provide resources and initiatives that drive our mission forward.
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