Pigs are intelligent, social animals whose physical and psychological wellbeing depend on adequate stimulation and freedom of movement. The 24/7 confinement of pigs in sow stalls (metal cages barely larger than the pigs themselves) inhibits their natural foraging, nesting, exploratory and social behaviours, and results in stress, aggression, sores, bruises, muscle and bone deterioration, and lameness.

While sow stalls are used primarily to prevent injuries resulting from aggressive behaviour by other pigs, research into alternatives has yielded numerous housing options which offer equivalent protection without the need for isolation and confinement. A transition to these has been openly supported by the RSPCA, Animals Australia, and even Australian Pork Limited, the industry’s peak service body.

Sow stalls are cruel and unnecessary. Please sign below to show Ms Lisa Baker MLA your support for a total ban on their use at pig-handling facilities in Western Australia.