The BeFree is a farrowing pen developed by Schauer with the possibility to temporarily confine the sow. It has a spatial footprint of 6m2 which includes 0.72m2 piglet nest. When the crate is open 4m2 is available to the sow.
![](https://www.freefarrowing.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/BeFree-resized-1024x680.png)
Read more about the development of the BeFree pen.
View the BeFree product video.
Key features
The sow is given:
- Space to move freely (if crate left open)
- The opportunity to nest-build (if the crate is left open pre-farrowing and suitable substrate is provided that can be used with part-slatted floor)
The piglets are given:
- Large nest/creep area with lid
- Safe udder access (when crate closed post-farrowing)
- Reduced spread of infection between pens
The staff are ensured:
- Safe separation of sow from staff when crate closed.
- Easy crate-opening and closing
- Fast and safe inspection of piglets in creep from passageway
- Simple locking of the piglet closing flap
- Closing flap at the piglet nest with a ventilation slot
- Tiltable trough with rack for fodder and separate “sow-piglet-drinking trough”
BeFree in operation
View videos of the BeFree in operation on commercial farms in Germany and France.
How to build a BeFree pen
Contact Schauer for more information: http://www.schauer-agrotronic.com
![](https://www.freefarrowing.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Schauer-logo.png)