Effectiveness of Water Sprays and a Wallow on the Cooling and Growth of Swine in a Normal Summer Environment

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Abstract
Three experiments involving a total of 120 swine weighing from 85 to 220 lb. were conducted to determine the effectiveness of water sprays and a wallow on the cooling and growth of market hogs in a normal summer environment. In two of three experiments a mist-type spray significantly (P<0.01) increased rate of gain. In a third experiment carried out during a period of abnormal rainfall and below average seasonal temperatures, the use of a spray did not significantly increase rate of gain. The use of a wallow increased rate of gain in one of two experiments. In control swine at complete rest beneath an open shade with a painted white wooden roof, rectal temperature and respiration rate rose with increasing ambient temperature. The use of a wallow reduced the rise in respiration rate, but was not as effective as a spray, especially at temperatures above 83° F. The swine having access to a mist-type spray showed no appreciable rise in either respiration rate or rectal temperature over a range of 73° to 88° F. in ambient temperature. Copyright © . .

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