Barn setup - show pigs

[dmoore109]

We have shown for 7 years and every year we end up having problems after arrival with split hooves on our barrows for one particular show (won't mention names). The ground is rough pavement.

We have sand (on top of cement) in most of our pens with some shavings for a bedding area and then cement at the bottom where water is.

I have been told that the sand is keeping their hooves too soft or possibly drying them out but not splitting until getting onto the rougher surface.

Wondering if just keeping each pen cement, except bedding area have shaving, would that cause any joint problems. Being on cement all the time? We walk them outside in the grass/pasture.

Any experienced feedback is greatly appreciated.

[MMMX134]

We raise ours in 6x10 pens with concrete floors and shavings. Walked in grass for exercise and show prep. Good structural hogs will not have issues in this type of set-up. Have you talked to your vet about the sand? Some feed additives or top dress additives can soften up pads too. I know a lot of breeders in the south raise their pigs on sand. Be interested in what you find out or decide.
Good Luck!

[SB farm]

MMMX134.....Wondering how many you keep in a 6x10 pen? That is the size we have and can't really go any bigger. Is that big enough for 2 when they get bigger? Thanks.

[eucathepig]

You could put hay or shavings down into the pen. Another way would have a smaller pen so they cannot walk as much in the pen. (It is recommended if you have cement flooring.) Another if you get them at the same place is genetics. If you are worried about joint pain there is over the counter medicines that can be used for pigs. Make sure to do research before buying a medication! One medication is a certain kind of Glucosamine, but you cannot use all kinds! Remember to use research!

I have cement flooring and there have been feet problems in the past, but never a splitting hoof. We cover the pen with a coat of shavings or hay. Sand might not be a solution because it could possibly dry the feet out like you said.

[mhartline]

Maybe try Hooflex therapeutic conditioner and consider using rubber horse mats that could be purchased at tsc.

[jrapp]

Any thoughts on a wood slatted floor?