Manitoba investigating after 1,300 piglets euthanized

(Canadian Press) A farmers group warns cases like one where close to 1,300 piglets had to be euthanized in Manitoba could become more common due to what it calls a crisis in the hog industry.

The Manitoba government said in a news release on Tuesday that the piglets were found in western Manitoba after a call was received Friday about inappropriate treatment.

It said its chief veterinarian's office investigated and found the piglets "in severe distress" and that they were put down immediately "to avoid further pain and suffering."

Doug Chorney, president of Keystone Agricultural Producers, said he fears similar stories could emerge in the coming weeks because troubles in the pork industry mean weanlings are now essentially worthless.

full: http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/manitoba/story/2012/08/28/mb-hogs-euthanized-cruelty-animal-vet.html