Effect of Rearing Environment and Environmental Enrichment on the Behavior of Neural Development of Young Pigs

There has been increasing societal concern about the welfare of farm animals residing in certain modern systems which provide less varied sensory input than natural surroundings (Harrison, 1964; Singer, 1976; Hason and Singer, 1980; Fox, 1984). Environmental complexity affects both central nervous system anatomical development and behavior (Bennett et al., 1964; Diamond et al., 1964; Greenough and Chang, 1985). Barren environments which restrict sensory input in terms of quantity, quality, or variety tend to increase both behavioral and central nervous system excitability. One question is: Do farm animals residing in these systems have symptoms of sensory restriction? Another is: Will simple, inexpensive methods of environmental enrichment such as objects or extra contact with people have beneficial effects on the animals' well-being? One aim of the research reported in this thesis was to answer these and other questions as they pertain to the pig.