Saving Pigs and Other Livestock from Deadly Diseases

HIR technology helps farmers raise healthier animals with natural disease resistance

High-immune response (HIR) technology is changing how farmers protect their animals from disease thanks to University of Guelph, Ontario Veterinary College professor Dr. Bonnie Mallard. This technology helps identify animals that naturally have stronger immune systems. These animals can pass their healthy traits to future generations, creating stronger herds over time. 

“If we can inherit disorders, we can inherit better order,” said Mallard who is a pathobiology professor.  For this work, Mallard is the only Canadian to have won both the Governor General's Award for Innovation and the NSERC Synergy Prize, some of Canada’s top research awards. 

HIR technology works through special antigen test kits. These tests gently stimulate an animal’s immune system. Animals that respond strongly are called high-immune responders. Farmers can then select these animals for breeding, helping improve the health of their herds naturally and safely. 

The technology has been licensed to Semex in Guelph and led to the development of Immunity+® semen. Offspring from Immunity+ animals have shown major health advantages. They are less likely to develop infectious diseases, require fewer antibiotics, grow faster, live longer, and produce higher-quality colostrum filled with protective antibodies. They also respond better to vaccines, making them more resilient overall. 

These techniques can be used for pigs as well. 

Recent research shows that this technology may also help protect cattle from avian flu. A study examined more than 15,000 cows from herds affected by avian flu. Cows with higher Immunity+ breeding values were less likely to need treatment and experienced fewer milk losses. This is important because avian flu can cause serious production losses and financial damage to farmers. 

Mallard believes that relying only on culling infected animals is not a sustainable long-term solution. Instead, breeding animals that naturally resist disease could help reduce future outbreaks and limit economic damage. While this strain of avian flu has not yet been found in Canadian cattle, producers can still prepare by using healthier genetics. 

New studies are now exploring the use of HIR technology in other species, including sheep, turkeys, beef cattle, and even companion animals. For example, researchers are studying how stronger immunity can help reduce shipping-related diseases in beef cattle and improve health in poultry flocks. 

“If we think the border is going to stop avian flu from jumping to cattle in Canada, no way,” said Mallard. “But our study shows: when this or other viruses come, those animals bred for better health genetics will be better prepared to deal with the disease.” 

This award-winning research highlights how science and industry partnerships can bring valuable innovations to farmers. By improving natural disease resistance, HIR technology supports healthier animals, lower costs, and a more sustainable future for agriculture. 

Photo Credit: Bonnie-Mallard-Schwabs-edited