Swine veterinarians, production managers and pig caregivers can now share real-time herd health data within their own networks using the PigWise barn management tool from Zoetis.

With its web-based dashboard and reporting platform, PigWise provides veterinarians and production managers with daily herd health information they need to help stay ahead of disease outbreaks, an announcement said. PigWise can help producers and their veterinarians track a number of health statistics including signs of illness observed, treatment dosage, administration and outcomes, such as mortality rates.

"Prior to PigWise, standard record keeping in pig care has relied on paper systems, which limits the ability of producers and veterinarians to share health information quickly," said Dr. Michael Senn, senior manager of Pork Technical Services at Zoetis. "The ability to access performance data in real time helps veterinarians assess any disease outbreaks quickly resulting in better treatment outcomes."

Pig caregivers can use the PigWise mobile app to enter health data as it is observed. Working in conjunction with Individual Pig Care training, caregivers identify sick pigs using a classification system based on their symptoms. The information is saved onto and immediately available within a secured web-based platform that can be accessed only by designated production managers and veterinarians within a particular system.

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The PigWise dashboard is an important tool for analyzing herd health data. The dashboard generates reports allowing veterinarians to quickly compare and contrast treatment outcomes along with signs of illness so that any herd health issues can be resolved in a timely manner. Users have the option to set alerts giving them immediate notification regarding specific health data. These real-time insights allow for immediate decision-making and appropriate allocation of resources, Zoetis noted.

PigWise also serves as an efficient tracking system for medication use. It’s a useful tool for pig producers who face increased pressures regarding the use of antibiotic products. The app allows caregivers to select what injectable anti-infectives or water-soluble products can be used as treatments. It then provides approved dosages, routes of administration and withdrawal times.

Ask your local Zoetis representative how PigWise can help you track herd health. The free PigWise mobile app is available for iOS 4, 5 and 6 and Android devices. The dashboard access is available for download by request. Users will then receive a unique username and password to log on to the dashboard. Zoetis also provides user support and training.

For more information on PigWise, visit GetPigWise.com or speak with a local Zoetis representative.