Chore-time Equipment, Inc.

Bradley E Donahoe

Carl W Van Gilst

Howard S Brembeck

A method of feeding hogs is disclosed. The method includes the steps of providing all the hogs with all the feed they care to consume for a limited feeding period of time, and thereafter denying all feed to all the hogs for a limited feedless period of time. Preferably, weaner hogs are provided with all the feed they care to consume during three separated, limited feeding periods of approximately two hours each per day. These feeding periods are alternated with three feedless periods during which all feed is denied to all the small hogs. This feeding regime is maintained until the hogs weigh approximately 100 pounds. Thereafter, two limited feeding periods are provided each day until the hogs reach market weight. In this way, hog weight gain per day is maximized and the amount of feed consumed per pound of hog weight gained is minimized. Apparatus for carrying out this feeding method is also disclosed. The apparatus includes a feed pan or trough, a high capacity feed delivery conveyor, and a timed feed shut-off means interposed between the feed trough means and the feed delivery conveyor for alternatively delivering and preventing delivery of feed to the feed trough. If desired, a water nozzle can be located above the feed trough to deliver water to the hogs during a feeding period. A timed water shut-off means can be interposed between the water nozzle and the water delivery pipe for alternately permitting and preventing delivery of water to the water nozzle.

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Elkhart, IN, United States of America

Bradley E Donahoe