USA - Illinois Farrowing Conference set for Dec. 8

An Illinois Farrowing Conference has been scheduled for Wednesday, Dec. 8 at the University of Illinois Extension Building on the Illinois State Fairgrounds in Springfield. This program will focus on the delivery of information to help people improve the performance of sows and piglets in the farrowing barn according to Rob Knox, U of I Extension swine reproductive specialist. The program features Duane Reese, a leading expert in farrowing swine and Swine Extension Specialist from the University of Nebraska, who will cover topics involving lactation physiology and piglet nursing behavior, feeding the lactating sow, as well as fallout pig management. The program also features Bill Hollis, a veterinarian from Carthage Veterinary Services, Ltd., one of the premier veterinary clinics in North America, who will discuss the critical topics involving obstetrical intervention during farrowing and prevention and treatment of common diseases of sows and piglets in the farrowing house. Gilbert Hollis, retired U of I Extension swine specialist, and long time leading expert in pork production, will discuss the best management procedures for processing baby pigs. Larry Firkins, associate professor in the College of Veterinary Medicine and Extension swine veterinarian will cover the problem of piglet mortality and how to minimize its occurrence, in addition to information on proper methods for euthanasia in pigs. Knox will discuss the physiology of farrowing and methods of farrowing induction in order to reduce stillbirths. Another special feature of the program is the "Guided Tour" of the pregnant sow tract from conception until the time of pig delivery. This is a hands-on opportunity to view female reproductive anatomy & physiology during pregnancy and discuss the farrowing process with the speakers. This phase of the program is optional and will be held from 8:00 to 8:45 a.m. The conference will begin at 8:55 and adjourn at 3:15 p.m. This program is sponsored by University of Illinois Extension, University of Illinois Department of Animal Sciences, Illinois Pork Producers Association, Carthage Veterinary Services, and our commercial sponsors and exhibitors. There is a two-tiered registration fee of $25 if made by December 1st and $35 for late and at the door registration. This fee includes lunch, proceedings, and all program materials. To register for the program contact Patty Sarver by phone at 217-333-2626 or by email pasarver@uiuc.edu or fax at 217-333-8286. For additional information, copy of program or to register contact Dr. Rob Knox by phone at 217-244-5177 or by email at rknox@uiuc.edu or to apply for sponsorship or commercial exhibit space, contact Dave Seibert by phone at 309-694-7501, Ext 224 or by email at dseibert@uiuc.edu.