Rethinking Pig Welfare: Beyond the Basics | Dr. Martyna Lagoda

About the Guest Dr Martyna Lagoda holds a B.A degree in Science, Zoology, and an M.Sc degree in Animal Behaviour and Welfare. Following the completion of her Ph.D in Sow Welfare (focus on sow chronic stress and its implications for piglet prenatal stress) at Teagasc, Ireland, in collaboration with the Institute of Genetics and Animal Biotechnology, Poland in 2022, Martyna worked as a research technologist on the “Tail Bite Advice” project in Teagasc, aiming to develop algorithms to accurately monitor tail biting behaviour, and to create a data-driven PLF decision support tool to actively advise farmers on how to reduce tail-biting occurrences. Martyna currently works as a Post-doctoral Research Fellow in the Swine Ethology and Welfare research group at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan. Martyna’s main research interest includes using behaviour to gain insights into welfare states, as well as developing housing environments which promote species specific behaviours. In her current role, Martyna continues to work towards improving the welfare of swine. What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig? Why welfare isn’t just about physical health—understanding a pig’s psychological state is just as important. How improving welfare can reduce stress, boost productivity, and even lower antibiotic use. The challenges of balancing consumer expectations, practical farm realities, and evolving welfare research. Why tail docking and enrichment remain complex welfare issues, and how producers are adapting. Martyna’s advice on staying honest, confident, and proud of your work.