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PSIII-4 Determining the Efficacy and Safety of Differing Caliber/Ammunition Combinations for the Humane Euthanization and Subsequent Mass Depopulation of Market Weight Pigs


 The objective of this proof of concept exercise was to validate a field applicable methodology designed to objectively assess the multiple caliber/ammunition combinations available for the safe and humane euthanization of market weight pigs during mass depopulation events. Heads of an equal number of barrows and gilts (n = 64) were randomly assigned to one of four caliber/ammunition combinations consisting of the .22 LR, .22 Mag, 0.38 Special, and 9mm. Fully jacketed (FMJ) ammunition was discharged from each of four unique firearms while ensuring that the distance from the muzzle to the forehead was consistent. The MIXED procedure of SAS was used to test the fixed effects of sex and caliber. No differences in skull thickness existed between sex (P = 0.32) or caliber/ammunition combination (P = 0.34). There was no difference in entrance wound diameter between the .38 Special and the 9mm (P = 0.15) yet the entrance wound diameter of the .38 Special and 9mm was larger than both the .22 LR and .22 Mag, respectfully (P < 0.0001). The 9mm bullets traveled further into the ballistic gel (P < 0.0001) and the furthest total distance (P < 0.0001). Bullets from the .38 Special traveled further into the ballistic gel and a further total distance than both the .22 LR and .22 Mag (P < 0.0001). There was no difference in the measurable trauma area of the brain for the 9mm bullets compared to .38 Special bullets (P = 0.83). The measurable trauma area of the brain was greater for the 9mm and .38 Special bullets when compared to both the .22 LR and .22 Mag (P < 0.0001). In conclusion, the efficacy and safety of the multiple caliber/ammunition combinations available for use in the euthanization of market weight pigs can be objectively quantified, replicated, and reported.