Animal Health Management and Production

Aim: This study was conducted to determine the seroprevalence and distribution of foot and mouth disease virus (FMDV) infection in pigs from Zuru, Kebbi State, Nigeria. Materials and Methods: Cross-sectional serological surveys were conducted between May and December 2013 using the immunochromatography assay technique. Structured questionnaires were administered to households identified at pig rearing areas to obtain the population structures and some information on managemental practices. Results: A total number of 849 pigs were enumerated at 37 pigs rearing households. Tudun wada had the largest concentration of pigs (237 pigs), while Dabai has the least (38 pigs). A total of 250 blood samples were collected, of which 45 (18%) were positive; Zango has the highest seroprevalence (1.6%), while Dabai recorded the least (0.4%). Based on sex and age, the infection was higher in female (10.4%) and young pigs (11.6%) than male (7.6%) and adult pigs (6.4%), respectively. There was no significant (p>0.05) association between infection and pig rearing areas, sex, and age. Furthermore, none of the 250 pigs examined for classical FMDV lesions was positive.

In order to investigate the effect of physical forms of starter diets on performance, weaning age, nutrient digestibility and rumen biochemical factors, 24 female of neonatal Brown Swiss calves (average body weight of 39.51.2 kg) were randomly assigned to three treatments. Dietary treatments were mashed (MS), pelleted (PS), and texturized (TS) starter using 8 calves from birth till 90 days of age in each treatment. Diets were formulated to be iso-nitrogenous with 21% crude protein. Based on the experimental results, calves that received PS and TS diets, had significant higher average daily gain (ADG) than those receiving MS (p<0.01). Dry matter intake in calves fed PS and TS was greater than calves fed MS (p<0.05), but there was no significant difference in feed efficiency. Treatments had no effect on initiation of rumination. Weaning age of calves in MS was longer than the other two treatments (p<0.05). Crude protein and organic matter digestibility in MS treated calves were lower than other treatments (p<0.05). No differences were observed in neutral detergent fiber (NDF) and ash digestibility among treatments (p>0.05). Ruminal pH was higher (p<0.01) in MS than the other groups, but ruminal ammonia (g/dl) concentration was not different among the treatments. Body measurements such as body length, pin width, hip width, pin to hip length, size of metacarpus and metatarsus bones, hip height, wither height, stomach size and heart girth were not significantly different among the treatments. Overall, it is concluded that starter diets in the form of pellet and texture can improve performance in neonatal Brown Swiss calves compared to the mashed form. (Key Words: Brown Swiss Calves, Mash, Processing, Pellet, Starter Diet, Texture)

Production objectives and breeding practices of smallholder households participating in dairy goat breeding projects were analysed in relation to their ability to bring about sustainable genetic improvement in the dairy goat flocks in Kenya. A stratified survey involving 311 goat keepers in 4 project sites was used. This employed both qualitative and quantitative research methods to get a holistic view of dairy goats, and take into account the full array of contributions of dairy goats to the smallholder households. Milk production and sales of breeding stock were high priority functions for the objective to create a financial buffer. The breeding objective traits that farmers perceived as being of primary importance were milk yield, growth rate, body size, fertility and disease tolerance. There were logical trade-offs in the choice of these traits by farmers. Female dairy goats were mainly culled due to old age, poor fertility, small body size and poor health. Farmers did not place a large significance on unsatisfactory milk performance when culling female goats, mainly due to the very small production size and the high demand existing for breeding animals. Factors affecting milk yield and flock size presented satisfied a P < 0.1 significance level. The performance levels of dairy goats were mainly influenced by breeding strategies and the resource availability at the farm level. The optimisation of genotype x environment interactions remains the biggest challenge given the objectives set by the farmer.

This study elucidated the effects of limited concentrate feeding on growth, plasma profile, and gene expression of gluconeogenic enzymes and visfatin in the liver of Hanwoo beef calves. The purpose of this study was to test that reducing the amount of concentrate would partially be compensated by increasing the intake of forage and by altering the metabolic status. The study utilized 20 Korean native beef calves (Hanwoo; 60 to 70 d of age) divided into two groups of 10 calves each for 158 d. Control group calves received the amount of concentrate as per the established Korean feeding standards for Hanwoo, whereas calves in the restricted group only received half the amount of concentrate as per standard requirements. Good quality forage (Timothy hay) was available for ad libitum consumption to both groups. Since calves were with their dam until 4 months of age in breeding pens before weaning, the intake of milk before weaning was not recorded, however, the concentrate and forage intakes were recorded daily. Body weights (BW) were recorded at start and on 10 d interval. Blood samples were collected at start and at 50 d interval. On the final day of the experiment, liver biopsies were collected from all animals in each group. The BW was not different between the groups at all times, but tended to be higher (p = 0.061) only at final BW in control than restricted group. Total BW gain in the control group was 116.2 kg as opposed to 84.1 kg in restricted group that led to average BW gain of 736 g/d and 532 g/d in respective groups, and the differences were significant (p<0.01). As planned, the calves in the control group had higher concentrate and lower forage intake than the restricted group. The plasma variables like total protein and urea were higher (p<0.05) in control than restricted group. The mRNA expressions for the gluconeogenic enzymes such as cytosolic phosphoenol pyruvate carboxykinase (EC 4.1.1.32) and pyruvate carboxylase (EC 6.4.1.1), and visfatin measured by quantitative real-time PCR in liver biopsies showed higher expression (p<0.05) in restricted group than control. Overall, restricting concentrate severely reduced the growth intensity and affected few plasma indices, and gene expression in liver was increased indicating that restricting concentrate in the feeding schemes during early growth for beef calves is not advocated. (Key Words: Calf, Concentrate, Growth, Gluconeogenic Enzymes, Plasma)

The objective of this study was to describe the housing system in the hospital pens on growing and finishing (GF) pig farms. This work was developed by using a questionnaire and was conducted between January and April, 2016. Forty-four GF commercial farms (a total of 41,111 animals) were involved, seeking to raise issues concerning the facilities of the hospital pens, environment, management, feeding and the reasons for transferring the animals to these accommodations. About 98% of the evaluated farms had, at least, one hospital pen. Most of these farms presented a percentage of animals evaluated (PAE) in the infirmary, of less than 1.5% of the total capacity of the animal housing on the farm. In 93.48% of the farms, the criterion used to transfer the animals to the infirmaries was when they were identified as " impaired, hurt, suffering ". In 47.83% of the cases, there were no differences between the hospital and common pens regarding the general management of the animals. The facilities and environment characteristics were similar in almost all hospital pens. Respiratory problems were the main reason for transferring pigs from the common to hospital pens. Under the conditions of this study, sufficient hospital pens exist on farms and overcrowding or competition for resources among pigs are avoided. However, there is no established standard among respondents about where to place the recovered animals.

The study examined feed intake, growth performance and blood constituents of growing male West African dwarf (WAD) goats fed concentrates varying in Pueraria phaseoloides leaf meal (PPLM) content. Four experimental diets that differed in PPLM content; Diets 1 (0% PPLM), Diet 2 (10% PPLM), Diet 3 (20% PPLM) and Diet 4 (30% PPLM) were fed to the WAD goats using the 4 × 4 ChangeOver Latin Square Design in a study that lasted twelve weeks (four weeks of pre-trial ac-climatization period inclusive). The trial period comprised four weeks of pre-trial acclimatization and four weeks of trial periods; with the first, second and third trials being sandwiched by two ac-climatization periods; each period lasting one week. The measured parameters were fed intakes, live weights, blood proteins (total protein, albumin and globulin) and micro-mineral elements (Iron, Copper and Zinc). Crude protein contents of diets ranged between 19.24% and 20.12%. Differences in treatment means of feed intakes, changes in live weights, blood proteins and micro-mineral elements were not significant (p > 0.05).

The production of high-quality milk is a prerequisite for sustaining a profitable dairy industry. The number of somatic cells (macrophages, polymorphonuclear neutrophils, lymphocytes and epithelial cells) per mL of milk, usually called somatic cell count (SCC) is routinely used to identify subclinical mastitis and define quality standards. Elevated SCCs are associated with changes in milk composition, resulting in poor quality of milk and milk products. SCC in milk is influenced by many factors, such as animal species, milk production level, lactation stage and also the individual and environmental factors besides management practices. A threshold of <200,000 cells/mL is considered to be of the most practical value for determining the health of mammary quarter. This review aims to highlight the importance of somatic cells for improving udder health and quality of milk as well as milk products.

Abstract: The decrease in the production coupled with the numerous industrial uses make maize an expensive energy ingredient for poultry feeding, thus the need for research into cheaper alternatives. A 9week experiment was conducted to assess the effects of feeding low tannin sorghum grain as a replacement for maize on the growth, haematology and carcass measurements of broiler chickens at the Poultry Unit of University of Maiduguri Livestock Research Farm, Maiduguri, Nigeria. A total of 300 day-old broiler chicks were randomly allotted to 5 dietary treatments containing 3 replications of 20 chicks each. The diets contained sorghum grains at 0.00, 25.00, 50.00, 75.00, and 100% respectively as a replacement for maize. The starter and finisher diets were formulated to contain 23% and 20% crude protein respectively. The results of growth performance showed no superiority of maize over sorghum grain in terms of weight gain and feed conversion ratio, during both phases of growth (starter and finisher). Feeding sorghum grain had no adverse effect on the haematological parameters analyzed. The yields of carcass and cut-up parts were not adversely affected by the level of sorghum grain in the diet. Similarly, there was no adverse effect of feeding sorghum grain on the weight of vital organs (heart, liver and spleen). It was concluded that low tannin sorghum can completely replace maize in broiler chickens diets without compromising the growth, meat yield or the health of the birds. The substitution is beneficial as it reduces competition between poultry and man for the already scarce maize grain.

The present study was conducted with selection of three major indigenous cattle breeds viz. Rathi, Tharparkar and Sahiwal from Bikaner, Jodhpur and Sri-ganganagar districtsof Rajasthan with the samplesize of 180 respondents, rearing at least one selected indigenous cattle for study the feeding and milking management practices adopted by indigenous cattle farmers in study area. It was found that level of adoption among majority of the respondents was medium and low. People are still depended on traditional feeding and milking management practices. Majority (58.3%) of the respondents preferred grazing and stall feeding system. Ninety per cent of the respondents did not feed any mineral mixture to cattle and nobody known about preservation of fodder. In case of milking management, majority of farmers (88.80%) used knuckling method of milking. Majority of the farmers were not aware about the drawbacks caused by the unhygienic milk handling which clearly indicated the lack of knowledge about the clean milk production practices at field level; moreover, farmers were not maintaining cleanliness in their house and milking premises. About 69.50 per cent of the farmers never washed or cleaned their cattle.

were used to study the effect of non-genetic factors on production and reproduction traits. Lactation records of Deoni cows were classified into five parity (1, 2, 3, 4 and ≥5), six period of two years interval (2002 to 2013) and three seasons i.e., winter (November-February), summer (March-June) and rainy (July-October). Statistical analysis was performed by using SPSS 16.0 software for Windows. On analysis, overall mean lactation milk yield, lactation length, service period and calving interval were estimated as 819.98 ± 16.5 kg, 195.23 ± 2.62, 158.78 ± 3.5 and 445.97 ± 3.67 days, respectively. Effect of parity and period on lactation milk yield and length was found to be highly significant (P<0.01). Significant influence (P<0.01) of period was observed on service period and calving interval of the cattle. Lactation milk yield of Deoni cattle was significantly influenced (P<0.05) by season of calving. Effect of season on lactation length, service period and calving interval was found to be non-significant, however on lactation milk yield it was found to be significant (P<0.05). Thus, present study concludes the significant influence of parity, period and season of calving on lactation milk yield that would be helpful for estimation of genetic parameters and further improvement of the breed.

Emergence of babesiosis in both public health and food security concern in global perspectives cannot be ignored. The dairy farming plays an important role in food industry that, fulfilling the protein requirement through producing both milk and meat. The farming operations may get hampered due to non-infectious and infectious diseases. Infectious diseases also cause huge production losses in all farming operations in time to time. Babesiosis becomes a major concern in public health and animal production specialists in recent years both locally and internationally due to severity of out breaks, carrier animals and zoonotic nature. Babesiosis as an emerging zoonotic disease and also causing heavy production losses due to the both clinical diseases and carrier animals. Babesia parasites, mainly Babesia bovis and B. bigemina, are tick-borne hemoparasites inducing bovine babesiosis in cattle globally. Babesiosis is known to occur in tropical and subtropical regions of the world and it is one of the major constraints to the livestock industry which adversely affects economic return and food security by reducing milk, meat production and if not treated leads to the death of the animal. Babesia parasites are considered to be endemic in central Sri Lanka and the prevalence of babesiosis is high in other areas. Carrier cattle infected with babesiosis have low number of parasites in circulation. Babesiosis is difficult to detect and is a challenge to conventional diagnostic methods. However, diagnosis of carrier animals in herd is important for preventing outbreaks by transmission through vector ticks to healthy animals and for obtaining epidemiological data of the disease. Here, we have conducted nested PCR detection of Babesia bovis in carrier cattle (Jersey crosses, Friesian crosses and Australian milking zebu) of selected localities of Sri Lanka. For this study, 30 blood samples were collected from suspected carrier cattle and analyzed using light microscopy and nested PCR. Screening by light microscope indicated that 47% of the samples to be positive. PCR analysis of samples

The Congo red binding ability is used as a phenotypic marker of colisepticaemic (invasive) and non-coliseptecaemic E. coli in poultry and also as an epidemiological marker for discrimination of pathogenic strains from the commensals. The Congo red binding ability and plasmid profile of 70 E. coli isolates from poultry was studied. A total of 65 (92.86 %) isolates showed a Congo red binding ability while 5 (7.14 %) isolates did not bind Congo red dye up to 72 hours post inoculation (PI). Out of 70 isolates tested, 37 (52.86 %) isolates showed the presence of plasmid, while 33 (47.14 %) isolates did not reveal any plasmid. The molecular mass of the plasmids was found to be more than 50 kb.

The welfare of elephants is an enormous challenge for zoos in terms of animal husbandry, financial cost and public perception. This chapter's aim is not to discuss whether elephants should be held in captivity: resolving this issue would involve sound data on the costs and benefits of keeping them in zoos, and reconciling the diverse ethical beliefs of different people. Instead, we review how animal welfare is assessed scientifically; discuss what is known about these various techniques for elephants; survey the evidence concerning population-level welfare of elephants in zoos; summarize the possible causes of reduced welfare amongst captive elephants; review the (disturbingly sparse) information that has been collated to test some of these ideas; and discuss what future work is needed to objectively evaluate the psychological welfare of zoo elephants.

In the pastoral zone of Gaongho in Burkina Faso, the main disease of ruminants is the African Animal Trypanosomiasis (AAT) which is very often controlled by herders with the aqueous extracts of five plants whose present study proposes to evaluate the potential trypanocidal activities. To this end, a parasitological field survey in ruminants was carried out followed by an in vitro trypanocidal test of five plant extracts using three concentrations (25, 50 and 100 mg / ml) in triplicate in comparison with negative (PBS) and positive (Veriben) controls in the laboratory. The field survey revealed an overall prevalence rate of 4.14% for trypanosomes, including 4.54% for cattle and sheep and 3.33% for goats, with no significant difference (P ˃ 0. 05) was recorded between the three ruminant species. Among the latter, the sex effect showed a significant difference in goats where males were more infested (P = 0.0015) than females. On the other hand, the age of the animals presented no significant difference (P = 0.8218) between the three species. All ruminants tested were more infested with Trypanosoma brucei brucei (66.67%) than T. congolense (33.33%). The in vitro test was conducted with aqueous extracts of five plants (Balanites aegyptiaca, Capparis sepiaria, Guiera senegalensis, Mitragyna inermis, and Vitellaria paradoxa) on Trypanosoma brucei brucei. Concentrations of 50 and 100 mg / ml of G. senegalensis leaf extracts and V. paradoxa bark caused high mortality of T. brucei brucei and were comparable to Veriben, the standard reference product. The results obtained with the extracts of G. senegalensis and V. paradoxa showed that these plantsmay be the potential source of trypanocidal drugs.

The present study was undertaken to determine the baseline values of some important serum macrominerals in clinically healthy lactating Kutchi camels during different stages of lactation. The study was carried out on 30 clinically healthy female camels (Camelus dromedarius) from the herd maintained at Camel breeding farm, Dhori (Kutch) and categorized broadly into three groups comprising ten animals in each group: animals in early lactation in Group-I, animals in mid-lactation in Group-II and animals in late lactation in Group-III. The blood samples were collected from each experimental animal and analyzed for serum macro-mineral profile. The results shown that, level of serum calcium was significantly (p < 0.05) decreased from early lactation to late lactation. However, non-significant (p > 0.05) alteration in serum inorganic phosphorus, magnesium, sodium and potassium were observed during different stages of lactation. The findings may be useful to set basal level of macro-minerals of Kutchi camels during different phases of lactation.

Present study was carried out to evaluate the common adultrants practiced in market milk at the vicinity of Hyderabad city. In first experiment, a total of 100 unprocesed milk samples (five from each retailer sale points) were collected and examined during the summer season. Market milk was mainly adulterated with water, formalin, cane sugar (CS), skimmed milk powder (SMP), starch and sodium chloride. The water was common adulterants found to be in all the milk samples (100%), followed by formalin (34%), CS (24%), starch (13%), SMP (08%) and sodium chloride (05%). In second experiment, the recovered adultrants (viz., water, starch, SMP, CS, formalin) was used as treatment to record their effects on the physico-chmical charcateristics of normal milk. Significant influence of extraneous water (10 and 20%) among the treatment was observed on physico-chemical characteristics of milk. Decrease in specific gravity (1.027±0.0003 and 1.024±0.001 respectively) and increase in freezing point(-0.462±0.01 and-0.399±0.01 0 C, respectively) was recorded against their corresponding controls (1.030±0.001 and-0.525±0.01 0 C, respectively) by the addition of extrenous water in milk. Addition of 10% water did not show any significant influence (p> 0.05) on pH value of milk (6.68±0.03), while 20% water had remarkable effect (p<0.05) on it (6.72±0.02) compared to that of whole milk (6.64±0.02). comparable reduction (p<0.05) in TS (total solid) content (13.34±0.28 and 11.15±0.44%) as compared to control milk (15.54±0.35) was observed. Protein, fat and lactose contents were also influenced (p<0.05) by addition of extraneous water to control milk. Addition of 1 and 2% each of starch, SMP and CS to normal milk did not show (p> 0.05) any significant influence on pH values and fat contents of milk, except addition of 2% CS that affected the pH (p<0.05). These results indicate alarming state of milk adulteration in Hyderabad city. As these adultrants significantlty affected the physico-chemical characteristics of milk like specific gravity, total solids content, protein and lactose content of milk.

It is well known that treatment of foot lameness poses an enormous economic burden for milk producing farms. For this reason we herein developed a modification to Dutch method of claw trimming/unloading in order to treat these annoying disorders, simply and properly. Accordingly, milk yield of enrolled lame cows was evaluated following treatment. In total, 1.338 dairy cows from three Holstein-Friesian dairy farms located in El-Sharkia Governorate, Egypt were enrolled in this prospective study from January 2012 to August 2013 timeframe. Herein, prevalence of claw disorders were 4.2% for coriosis, 8.3% for white line disease 10% for underrun soles 41.7% for claw deformities, 29.2% for wall fissures, and 12.5% for sole ulcer (SU). Additionally, digital dermatitis (25%), inter-digital dermatitis (11.7%), inter-digital hyperplasia (1.7%), heel horn erosion (8.3%), inter-digital necrobacillosis (1.7%) and pedal arthritis (1.7%) were also filed out. Subsequently, milk yield data of lame cows were analyzed two weeks before treatment as well as two and four weeks after treatment. Impartially, milk yield of Farm-B and Farm-C showed significant increases at four weeks (154.35±30.44; P<0.001 and 130.59±22.17; P<0.01, respectively) and two weeks post treatment only in Farm-C (116.55±21.17; P<0.05) compared to pretreatment values (Farm-B: 96.25±22.94; Farm-C: 97.41±23.12). However, there were no statistical differences in milk production were noted in Farm-A. Based on these results, application of modified Dutch Method with claw measuring device named Claw-Check® for claw unloading/trimming might be beneficial clinically to reduce the burden of claw lameness and subsequently improves milk yield. All copyrights reserved to Nexus® academic publishers

Sub-clinical mastitis is a major problem that causes huge economic loss due to occurrence of antimicrobial resistant organisms. The present study was designed to observe the antimicrobial susceptibility pattern of sub-clinical mastitis bacterial isolates in dairy goats. Bacterial species (n = 9) caused sub-clinical mastitis in dairy goats isolated from milk samples were subjected towards the disc diffusion method for antimicrobial sensitivity against twenty six different antimicrobial agents. The results of antimicrobial susceptibility testing revealed that Staphylococcus aureus and Micrococcus luteus were recorded highly sensitive to oxytetracycline with 100% susceptibility, whereas Bacillus cereus was observed highly susceptible (100%) to amoxicillin/clavulanic acid, cephalexin and norfloxacin. Citrobacter species were observed 100% susceptible to ceftriaxone. Likewise, 100% susceptibility of Escherichia coli was detected to ceftriaxone and chloramphenicol; Micrococcus luteus to oxytetracycline; Proteus vulgaris to amikacin, erythromycin and sulphamethoxazole/trimethoprim; Bacillus subtilis to norfloxacin; Staphylococcus epidermidis to doxycycline; and Streptococcus agalactiae to doxycycline and amoxicillin/clavulanic acid. These results suggested that bacterial species caused caprine sub-clinical mastitis could be treated through antibiotics. Moreover, enrofloxacin and doxycycline were observed the most effective antimicrobial agents against the sub-clinical mastitis pathogens.

This study was conducted to evaluate the influence of blood metabolites (glucose and urea) and milk yield on fertility of local nondescript dairy cows. For this purpose, blood samples were collected from one hundred cows on day 1 (pre-insemination) and day 21 (post insemination). Data pertaining to age, body condition score, milk yield and fertility attributes of selected animals were recoded using a structured questionnaire. Contrary to non-pregnant cows, the pregnant animals demonstrated relatively lower blood glucose levels. Glucose concentration in the blood was directly proportional to body condition score. Blood urea concentration varied significantly between conceived and non-conceived groups. Nonpregnant group exhibited comparatively lower blood urea levels as compared to pregnant group. Different age groups displayed a non-significant disparity in terms of blood metabolites concentration. Difference in milk yield between the pregnant and non pregnant cows was statistically non-significant. This study validated that blood glucose, blood urea and milk yield could not be regarded as specific determinants of fertility in nondescript dairy cows. All copyrights reserved to Nexus® academic publishers

T he camel (Camelus dromedaries) is an important livestock species uniquely adapted to hot arid environments. It is most numerous in the arid areas of Africa, particularly in the arid lowlands of Eastern Africa namely, Somalia, Sudan, Ethiopia, Kenya and Djibouti. Approximately, 11.5 million animals in this region represent over 80% of the African and two thirds of the world's camel population (Schwartz, 1992). Ethiopia is one of the largest camel populated countries in the world; in Africa, it ranks third next to Somalia and Sudan (FAO-OIE-WHO, 1993). Diseases in camels cause considerable economic losses due to condemnation of edible organs and decreased meat/ milk production (Romazanvoc, 2001). Meat of camel

The Bihar state of India is having 12.56 million of cattle population and about 15.73% crossbred animals. But, poor management and harsh weather condition make animals vulnerable to various eye diseases. The present investigation was carried out in different districts of Bihar to find the incidences of eye ailments of cattle irrespective of age, breed, sex, season and types of diseases that causes a great economic loss to the farmers. Out of 2832 surveyed animals 15.22% animals were found to be sufferer of various eye diseases. Among the eye ailments 8.93% were corneal opacity, 2.01% Infectious Bovine Keratoconjunctivitis, 1.91% corneal ulcers, 0.81% cataracts, 0.67% glaucoma, 0.46% staphyloma, 0.25% micro cornea and 0.18% were corneal dermoid. Statistical analyses revealed that there were significant (P<0.01) differences among breeds, sexes, age groups and seasons with respect to the occurrence of eye diseases. The crossbred animals (17.74%) were found to be more susceptible than the zebu cattle (13.45%). The male animals (20.96%) and younger age groups (19.00%) found to be more sufferers than the female (12.08%) and adult animals (13.33%). Seasonal variation with the highest incidences in pre-monsoon (4.66%), followed by monsoon (3.57%), postmonsoon (3.53%) and lowest in winter (3.46%) months were noticed. Unilateral eye infections (13.67%) were more than the bilateral (1.55%). The eye diseases could be prevented through better management practices like housing, feeding and timely health care of animals.

| Conformation is considered important to varying degree in different production indices besides milk. Linear scoring is the most recent method for describing a dairy cow in terms of conformation. The present study was designed with the objectives to develop linear score system for Sahiwal cattle. Body and udder measurements recorded on 310 Sahiwal cows were used for assigning linear score to each trait following the guidelines of International Committee on Animal Recording. The ASReml Version 2.0 was the statistical package used. The linear model included fixed effects of herd, parity, stage of lactation and the age of cow at classification as co-variable. The linear type score (mean±SD) were: stature 5.1±2.0, chest width 4.4±1.

Presence of heavy metals in milk, particularly the non-essential ones poses a great risk to both animal and human health. Industrialization, construction, vehicle dust, heavy use of pesticides are some of the major pathways through which these metals gain access into the food chain, and eventually into the milk. The present study was conducted to determine the concentration of heavy metals in buffalo milk, owing to its high consumption in the country. Fresh, raw buffalo's milk samples, total 100 in number were collected from different dairy farms in Mumbai suburbs. After collection, the sample were immediately kept in the freezer (-20˚C) and later processed by acid digestion method using 65% HNO3 and HClO4. Using Atomic Emission Spectrophotometry (ICP-AES), concentration of As (Arsenic), Hg (Mercury), Pb (Lead) and Cd (Cadmium) were evaluated. The results showed high levels of lead and mercury in Borivali (p<0.05)and Bhiwandi (p<0.01) region respectively. The positive values confirm presence of these toxic metals in the surrounding environment. However, no significant levels (p>0.05) of these metals were found in the water which is considered as the most common source of exposure. Also, no correlation was found between levels of heavy metals and its effect on milk yield. These results demonstrated that milk produced in the vicinity of Mumbai is contaminated with heavy metals lead and mercury; moreover environmental pollution could be a potential source of heavy metal contamination in raw milk.

Body condition scoring being the subjective and non-invasive yardstick gives the access about the body reserves of cow without intervention of any technology and expenses. It provides an instant apprehension of animal's body state and is readily utilized in operational decision making. Body condition score (BCS) dynamics affects production profile of milk yield, peak milk yield, persistency and the milk constituents; also affects reproductive traits of oestrous, ovulation, conception rate, calving interval; dry period influences production and reproductive profile. BCS affects body weight. High as well as low BCS cows are prone to metabolic and related disorders. Mobilization of body tissues increases blood glucose, fatty acids, urea and total protein with advancement of calving and lactation affecting production, reproductive and health traits. Ideal body condition optimizes production, minimizes reproductive and health disorders, and maximizes economic returns.

| Genetic correlations between any two traits indicate that some of the same genes are controlling them and in case of positive genetic correlation, selection for improvement in one trait will result in improvement in the other trait as a correlated response. In case of absence of any milk recording system under field conditions, farmers generally select animals on the basis of phenotype. Information on genetic correlation of body measurements with milk yield can be used for indirect selection for improved milk yield. Objective of this study was to record different body measurements in Nili Ravi buffaloes and estimation of phenotypic and genetic correlations with milk yield. These correlations were estimated in 437 Nili Ravi buffaloes maintained at 5 Livestock Experiment Stations in Punjab and few private breeders. Data included 1180 records of milking buffaloes. Correlations were estimated using BLUP techniques. Age of the buffalo at scoring, stage of lactation, parity, herd and season of scoring were included in the model. Data were analysed using the mixed model procedure of the SAS. Fixed effects observed to be significant in the initial analysis were included in the model for estimation of genetic and phenotypic correlation of each trait with milk yield using bivariate analysis in ASREML computer program. Buffaloes in the data were the progeny of 88 sires and 303 dams with 119 base animals. The least squares means for height at withers, diagonal body length and heart girth were found as 132.04±4.56, 154.01±7.60 and 194.46±10.31cm, respectively. Phenotypic correlations of 305 days milk yield with body measurements were low. Positive genetic correlations were observed as 0.16±0.0003 for diagonal body length, 0.08±0.00 for height at withers and 0.14±0.0005 for heart girth. Diagonal body length has shown a low but positive genetic correlation with milk yield and this trait might be considered in the selection program for Nili Ravi buffaloes. Genetic correlation of heart girth with milk yield can be considered for indirect selection for milk yield.

This paper aims to update information for a better understanding of the functioning of the sector of animal and meat production in Benin's socioeconomic context. It highlights (i) structure of livestock population and production, (ii) competitiveness of meat sector, (iii) identifies constraints and possible prospective solution to increase meat production in Republic of Benin. The traditional animal production systems remain largely widespread. However, industrial and modern livestock farming systems for all species are developing. Cattle (57%), chicken (19%), small ruminants (13%) and pigs (7%) are the main meat producers in the country. Non-conventional species such as rabbit (3%) and grass cutters (1%) contribute also to the national meat production. Despite religious prohibitions, pork consumption increased during the last years notably in southern Benin. The households with a higher monthly income spend more money to purchase meat than poor households. Taste, texture, price, and juiciness are the main criteria of choice. Also, consumers prefer the meat of local breeds to that of exotic breeds. Thus local species and breeds have a great role in the development of this sector. Although policies have been implemented to boost the national meat production, the sector is still undeveloped. That is why, the implementation of new approaches and practices including improvement of animals' genetic resources, housing, health care, and feeding should be developed to intensify production.

An attempt was made to calculate the feeding economics of Landrace crossbred pig on replacement of balanced ration with kitchen waste and poultry offals. Twenty-four gilts were selected at eight months of age and randomly allotted to 3 groups viz, sole concentrate (C), kitchen wastes (K) and poultry offals (P) substituted groups. Further, eight gilts of each group were divided into two subgroups of four each for feeding once or twice a day (C1 and C2 in Control, K1 and K2 in K group, P1 and P2 in P groups, respectively). All the three diets were offered in one or two frequencies i.e., single diet 10:00hr or twice daily at 10:00hr and 16:00hr. Crude Protein (CP) in the standard ration was replaced by using kitchen wastes or poultry offals by substituting 40% of the CP in the control diet and rations were formulated iso-nitrogenously (18.40%). The feed intake of sows during gestation and lactation was recorded. It was observed that feed cost per sow per day was significantly lower (P<0.01) both during gestation and lactation in sows in groups K and P. Altogether the total cost of feeds incurred on sows upto weaning were significantly (P<0.01) highest in C (Rs. 2913.76±111.11), followed by P (Rs. 2263.29±92.38) and lowest in K (1448.61± 88.15) group. This finding indicates that the cost of feeding pigs can be significantly minimized by substituting the costly concentrate feed with kitchen wastes and alternate unconventional source of poultry offals at 14% and kitchen wastes at 40% level of inclusion.

R ecently, Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica) has been used as a good laboratory model for poultry research due to their faster juvenile growth, higher egg production and shorter generation interval (Shit et al., 2010). The modern production systems and market demands mandate a reliance on the intensive farming system which guarantees high yield and minimizes the need for space and for labor. Nevertheless, this space restriction will inevitably lead to the appearance of abnormal behavioral patterns including pecking behavior which is one of the problems faced by poultry producers worldwide (Riber et al., 2007). Moreover, head injuries caused by aggressive pecking are an important welfare concern in quail farming when housed in the same place (Wechsler and Schmid, 1998). Aggressive pecking behavior in males, especially toward the head area, leads to several problems such as severe injuries (sometimes eye loss), cannibalism and even mortality which encompasses some economic concerns in quail farming (Mekawy, 2014). The previous findings have recognized testosterone hormone as the main regulator of inter-male aggression, particularly aggressive pecking behavior, among males of wild and domestic birds (Muller

M oringa oleifera Lam (MO) (Moringaceae), is a multinutrient plant that have multiple medicinal uses and called the miracle tree. It is native to India and is distributed and cultivated all over the world throughout the semi-arid tropics, tropics and subtropics countries (Raman et al., 2018). This plant grows in arid and coastal regions

A total of 24 Large White Yorkshire pigs of 2-3 months age were randomly grouped into three treatments (T 1 , T 2 , & T 3).In each group there were eight pigs of four replicates. Animals in T 1 were kept in fermented deep litter housing system and fed with fermented feeds. Animals of T 2 were kept in fermented deep litter housing system and fed with conventional concentrate rationand animals of the T 3 groups were under conventional housing along with conventional concentrate feeding system. Feeds and litter materials were fermented with Lactobacillus acidophilus. The data on symptoms of diseases were recorded upto 24 weeks of age. Common symptoms of diseases viz., diarrhea, skin infection, fever was less in T 1 and T 2 compared to those of T 3 group, and mortality was not recorded in any treatment groups during the experimental period. But there was no significant difference observed between the treatment groups regarding the occurrence of symptoms of diseases as well as the antibody titre in pigs vaccinated against Classical Swine Fever.

Gaushala management is a specialized profession requiring particular skills relating to the management of cow shelters or gaushalas, which are traditional and ancient Indian institutions that shelter old, unproductive and abandoned cows, The 1800 registered cow shelters in India have managers who are important stakeholders in the management of cows in these unique institutions. It is important to survey the routine management of these shelters and attitudes of the managers towards cow welfare to identify the constraints and welfare issues. We visited 54 shelters in six states of India for a face-to-face structured interview of the managers. Quantitative data collection included questions on demographics, routine management operations, protocols followed in the shelters and attitudes of the managers towards cow welfare. All shelters except one were managed by males, half of them were in the age range of 45–65 years, were university graduates or post-graduates, with 5–15 years shelter management experience, and with the majority having lived in rural areas for most of their lives. Each shelter housed a median of 232 cattle were housed, out of which 13 were lactating cows. The majority of managers vaccinated their animals against endemic diseases like foot and mouth disease, haemorrhagic septicaemia and black quarter (gangraena emphysematosa) and administered endo-and ectoparasiticidal treatments, however, hardly any screened the cattle for brucellosis and tuberculosis. Only 17% of the shelters had in house veterinarians and most cows died
of old age, with an annual mortality rate of 14%. The majority of the shelters allowed the cows to reproduce. Access to pasture was available in only 41% of the shelters, while most allowed some access to yards. Most (57%) had limited biosecurity measures, but 82% of the shelters disposed of the carcasses by deep burial on their own premises or through the municipality, with 18% disposing of them in open spaces or nearby creeks. About one half of the shelters maintained records of the protocols followed routinely. Charitable societies ran half of the shelters, mostly through public donations, with accounts audited regularly. Most managers thought that shelter cows’ welfare was important and that they should attempt to improve it. They were less in agreement that their knowledge of animal welfare was adequate. Local support, more moral than financial, was recognized more than government support. Managers perceived cow welfare as important from a religious perspective, citing the mother god and caring for abandoned animals as frequent themes in their definition of cow welfare. Caring for animals, mother and goddess were key elements in managers’ perception of animal welfare. The recommendations arising from this survey include that the shelter managers should be involved in the decision-making process for the welfare of cows in shelters,
which is vital for the sustainability of these unique institutions. Welfare could be improved by strict compliance with biosecurity measures and disease surveillance protocols, avoidance of unrestricted reproduction in cows and separation of males and females.

The fowl tick Argas persicus is an obligate ectoparasite, transmit different diseases and cause health problems such as body weight loss and toxicosis. The objective of this study was to evaluate the health status of chicken infested by A. persicus through the estimation of some blood parameters and body weight. In this study, the health of local (Baladi) chickens heavily infested twice by A. persicus (20 ticks per bird each time) was assessed. The hemogram parameters such as hematocrit (Hct), red blood cells (RBC), white blood cells (WBC), and hemoglobin (HGB) and body weight (BW) were estimated to evaluate the health damage of infested birds. During four weeks of infestation, investigations were analyzed for experimental and control group chickens. At the end of the fourth week infested groups lost 19% of their body weight, while there were 52%, 32%, 52% and 38% decrease in Hct, WBC, RBC and HGB levels respectively in chickens of infested group as compared to control group (P < 0.01). By the end of the experiment, 55% of all infested birds died. In conclusion, the A. persicus ticks caused significant weight loss and deteriorate blood picture of Baladi chickens. Hence, it is suggested that A. persicus may cause huge economic losses to poultry industry, therefore, integrated tick control program should be implemented to improve chicken productivity.

Melanoma or malignant melanoma is an abnormal production of melanocytes in a dysregulated manner leading to the formation of a nodule, mass or other types of lesion. In this report, we describe the rare occurrence of malignant cutaneous melanoma as melanomas of haired skin origin are generally known to be benign and less aggressive compared to its mucocutaneous counterpart. A thirteen-year old, spayed female Shih Tzu Mix was presented to Universiti Malaysia Kelantan Veterinary Clinic with a history of a bleeding mass on the left scapular region. Upon physical examination of the integumentary system, there were generalized brownish to greyish and black macules of varying sizes as well as soft, black nodules with a smooth surface located at the right lateral trunk region and at the caudal-proximal region of the tarsal joint. The mass on the left scapular region appeared alopecic, firm and cauliflowerlike with an ulcerating centre. Complete blood count revealed a mild to moderate lymphopenia and neutrophilic granulocytosis. The cytological evaluation revealed pleomorphic neoplastic cells characterized by spindle to round phenotypes, having dark, dust-like intracytoplasmic melanin granules with multiple prominent nucleoli and mitotic figures. The patient was treated via surgical excision of the ulcerating tumour. Histopathological examination of the excisional biopsy revealed pagetoid melanocytosis, spindle and round neoplastic cells with high mitotic index, marked tumour lymphoplasmacytic infiltration and intracytoplasmic melanin pigments. Discretely scattered neoplastic melanocytes and melanin pigments were also observed within the subcutaneous layer, indicating tumour infiltration. In conclusion, the diagnosis of cutaneous melanoma was made based on cytological and histopathological findings and treatment was done via surgical excision.

| Dystocia in Beetal goat breed is common due to keeping of mixed herd of different breeds at the same place. A vaginal examination should not practice unless required, as it may result in drastic effects over kid and goat as well. A non-descriptive pregnant Beetal goat was presented with the signs of left fore-limb protruding out since 2 days from the vulva. On ultrasonographic examination, it was concluded that the dystocia was due to fetal maternal disproportion. The caesarean section was performed under complete aseptic conditions to avoid any post-operative infection. The left flank approach was used under inverted L block on left Para lumber fossa by using 2% Lignocaine. Alive fetus with an intact umbilical cord was drawn out from the uterus of the goat. Suturing was performed as per standard surgical methods and post-operative care was done including antiseptic dressing of wound and pain management for five days. It is suggested that separate breed herd management should be a practice to avoid such life-threatening conditions.

The libido problem is quite common in Zebu breeding bulls at tropical condition. When Breeding Soundness Evaluation (BSE) is normal, assessing the libido problem is complicated in adult breeding bulls.The present study was conducted to investigate the peripheral luteinizing hormone (LH) and testosterone levels in Zebu breeding bulls.The single dose of exogenous GnRH (10µg buserelin acetate, intramuscular) administrated in each animal of normal libido bulls (n=3) and poor libido bulls (n= 3). The jugular blood samplings were done at 1 h, 0 h (GnRH injection) followed by up to 6 h at 1 h interval. The average basal concentration, 1 to 6 h post-GnRH administration concentration (PGA) and Area under the curve (AUC) for testosterone, LH hormones were compared between the groups. The basal concentration of testosterone and LH hormones were found significantly higher (p<0.05) in poor libido bulls than normal libido bulls. The PGA and AUC were not significantly differed between the two groups. It was clear that the peripheral rhythm of testosterone and LH hormones were not useful to trace the libido problem in Zebu breeding bulls at the breeding centre.

The data were collected from 120 sheep rearers selected from 8 villages of two Tehsil of Bikaner district.The information was collected from respondents on breeding practices of sheep by an interview schedule. The maximum at 73.33% respondents detected heat. Age at first mating of sheep was recorded highest (69.16%) for 12-18 months age%. About 74.17% respondents possess own breeding ram while 78.33% were using breeding ram from own flock. Estrus during rainy season was observed by 56.67% respondents. Overall 27.50% of respondents of surveyed population were not aware about castration of male lamb. The physical appearance /breed characteristic were used as a common criterion for selecting the breeding ram by 77.50% while, only 22.50% respondents used body weight/health for selecting breeding ram. Treatment of anoestrus was not common in different flock size respondents whereas, 4.17% were well aware to provide anoestrus treatment. The overall results depicted that breeding ram, selection of breeding ram and veterinary aid during lambing practices were significantly (p< 0.05) associated with flock size, whereas, remaining practices pertaining to breeding in the experimental area were non-significant (p> 0.05)with the flock size.

Out of 93 goats examined for the presence of cysts on the body, only 12 goats had cysts on dorsal lumbar, right flank and prescapular areas (Figure 1a, b & c) and it was identified as Coenurus gaigeri, which is an intermediate stage of T. Multiceps gaigeri.

The poultry industry recently utilized locally abundant plant sources that are phytobiotics and environmentally friendly to improve production performance and boost the fowl's immune system. However, plants may contain some anti-nutritive factors that might negatively affect the production performance. A total of sixty-day-old broiler chickens were used to investigate the potential of Moringa (Moringa oleifera Lam.) Pod Meal (MPM) on production performance and cell-mediated immunity. The broiler chickens were assigned in a Completely Randomized Design experimental setup with four dietary treatments. Each treatment was replicated three times, with five birds in every replication and fed with MPM at 0 (T1), 5 (T2), 10 (T3), and 15% (T4) levels in 42 days feeding trial. Moringa pod meals' chemical composition contains 13.02% crude protein, 36.98% crude fiber, 5.94% ash, and 11.33% moisture. The results revealed no significant differences (p>0.05) in the final weight, body weight gain, average daily gain, and feed conversion ratio of broiler chickens. Numerically, the highest final weight and weight gains were observed in birds fed with MPM. Moreover, the voluntary feed intake was significantly (p<0.05) affected when MPM was incorporated into the diet. There were no significant differences (p>0.05) observed in the indicators of cell-mediated immunity (immune organ indices), but numerical values showed higher in broiler chickens fed with MPM than broilers without MPM in the diet. The highest return of investment was observed in T3 with PhP106.48, and T1 obtained the lowest income generated with Php101.49 per bird. In light of the findings, incorporating MPM in the diets seems potential to improve broiler chickens production and immune responses, however further studies using large population of birds should be warranted.

The experiment was conducted on Vanaraja chicken breeder flock maintained in three separate experimental pens in which two (T 1 and T 2) were treatment pens and T 0 was control pen with 1:8 male to female mating ratio and total birds ranging from 88 to 90 in each pen. At the end of 48 th , 49 th , 52 nd and 55 th Weeks Of Age (WOA), 150 eggs were randomly selected from each pen and a sum of 450 eggs from the three pens, were set in incubator for incubation. At the end of 48 th week for interspiking 3 roosters from experimental pen T 1 were transferred to T 2 and another 3 roosters from pen T 2 were transferred to T 1. Increase in fertility rates were observed at 52 and 55 WOA after the initial reduction at 49 WOA after interspiking in all the groups. However more increase was observed in the interspiked T 1 and T 2 groups. The hatchability values on Total Eggs Set (TES) basis at 52 and 55 WOA of interspiked groups were found higher than those of the non interspiked control group of birds. There was gradual increase in TES hatchability after interspiking from 49 to 55 WOA in T 1 and T 2 groups than those before interspiking. However, in all the age groups there were no significant differences in TES hatchability rates among the treatments. While evaluating the hatchability rate on Fertile Eggs (FES) basis in all the age groups, no significant differences were found among the treatments. An increase in FES hatchability rate of all the treatment groups has been found as the age advances. However, more increase was observed in interspiked groups (T 1 and T 2) compared with control T 0 group. The findings indicate that interspiking of Vanaraja roosters can be advantageous especially in flocks showing lower fertility rates.

This study aimed to evaluate the influence of post-dipping on milk production, composition, and quality of cows with subclinical mastitis. Samples of mast milk from two different dairy farms were analyzed in two moments: before the post-dipping implantation and after 30 days, the samples were conditioned to the refrigeration temperature in an isothermal box and sent to the laboratory for the following analyzes: California Mastitis Test (CMT), Somatic Cell Count (SCC), Fat, Protein, Lactose, Total Solids (TS), Non-Fat Solids (NFS) and microbiological tests, as well as individual milk weighing. The experimental design was completely randomized and arranged in a split-plot scheme, submitted to analysis of variance (ANOVA) by the F test. The post-dipping practice during 30 days resulted in the means and standard deviation of the analyzes of the studied variables, where the values of SCC, CMT, and microbiological score profile were statistically significant. The

P oultry industry is greatly affected by outbreaks due to avian influenza viruses that spread worldwide. These outbreaks are associated with high morbidity and mortality or high morbidity and low mortality, as it was related to virus strain and subtype (Capua and Alexander, 2008; Goudrazi et al., 2013). Avian influenza viruses are RNA genome viruses, which is single stranded and negative sense RNA. The genome is segmented into 8 segments and their total length of 13.5 kilo base. The virions are enveloped and classified within the family Orthomyxoviridae (Lamb, 2001). All avian influenza viruses are grouped within the genus Influenza A of the family Orthopmyxoviridae, and this family have another four genera which are, Influenza B, Influenza C, Thogotovirus, and Isavirus (MacLachlan and Dubovi 2010). This classification is attributed to the differences in genetic structures of both matrix proteins (MP) and nucleoproteins (NP) of these viruses (MacLachlan and Dubovi 2010). The genus Influenza A included many viruses, these are although related to each other serologically and from genetic point of view, but differences are also detected between research Article Abstract | The present study was an attempt to assess the pathogenicity of local isolate of H9N2 avian influenza virus (AIV) in Diyala province, Iraq in the experimentally infected vaccinated and unvaccinated commercial broiler chickens with available commercial H9N2 vaccine. The virus was propagated in allantoic cavity of hen's embryonated eggs and gave a titer (1024HAU/0.1) by HA test and a (10 10.5 EID50/0.1 ml) of stock virus. One hundred and 80 broilers of one day old were used and subdivided into 3 groups (60 birds each) as group A, B, and C. La-Sota Newcastle disease virus (NDV) vaccine was used to vaccinate groups A, group B was further vaccinated with bivalent inactivated H9N2 and NDV commercial vaccine, whereas group C was used as control (unvaccinated). Groups A and B at the age of 28 days were infected by intranasal dropping with 0.3 ml of stock virus of a titer (10 10.5 EID50/0.1 ml). The mean titre of maternal antibodies measured by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) at 3 days of age appeared as 6541.66. Levels of anti AIV antibodies reduced significantly (P≤0.05) at age of 14 and 35 days when compared to level of maternal antibody. The mean titres of antibodies at 14 days of age appeared 1173.16, 2503.77 and 373.94 for groups A, B and C respectively. The mean titres of IgG against AIV at the age of 35 days appeared as 337.77, 2303.22 and 174.27 for group A, B, and C respectively. Mild clinical signs were observed in A and B groups at 4 and 12 days post infection (PI) respectively. The morbidity was too low and the mortality was reported in group A only and not be exceeded 3.3%. The virus was detected in tissue samples only of group A collected from trachea, liver and lung by real time PCR using specific primers and probe. Histopathological changes were observed in trachea, liver and lung, like degeneration, necrosis and infiltration of inflammatory cells. In conclusion, available commercial inactivated H9N2 vaccine, could not completely protect broilers from the infection of same virus H9N2 local isolate.

U terine torsion is a maternal cause of dystocia usually defined as the rotation or spiral twisting of the pregnant uterus on its longitudinal axis (Roberts, 1971). Higher incidence of uterine torsion in buffaloes than cattle is due to anatomical differences like attachment of broad ligaments on the ventro-lateral side of uterus (Noakes et al., 2001), relatively longer and weak musculature of broad ligaments (Ghuman, 2010). The direction of post or pre-cervical torsion can be either clockwise (right) or counterclockwise (left) (Noakes et al., 2001). Bos indicus cattle is more prone to pre-cervical torsions occurring during the last trimester (Prabhakar et al., 1994; Prasad et al., 2000); while in Bos taurus cattle, cross-bred cattle (56-99%) and buffaloes (87-99%), there is preponderance of post-cervical uterine torsions (Ghuman, 2010; Srinivas et al., 2007).The diagnosis of post cervical uterine torsions by per-vaginal examination and pre-cervical torsions by both per-vaginal and per-rectal examinations becomes essential for making rightful detorsion attempts for correction. Delayed or long standing cases of torsion (>72 h) is associated with apparent subsiding signs of parturition i.e. shrinkage of udder, loss of teat tumefaction, reabsorption of milk, tightened pelvic ligaments, and reduction in overall perineum relaxation (Srinivas et al., 2007). Limited arterial blood inflow and venous outflow in the twisted uterus leads to ischemia, hypoxia and cell death causing irreversible damage to the endometrium, myometrium and ultimately death of the fetus (Prabhakar et al., 1994). It results in loss of uterine wall elasticity and uterine wall becomes necrosed, fragile and prone to rupture (Noakes et al., 2001). Macroscopically, the color of the uterine wall case report Abstract | A buffalo in its' 3 rd parity was presented to Referral Veterinary Polyclinic with the history of complete gestation, inappetence for 6-7 days and symptoms of straining and discomfort about 10 days back. The animal was dull and depressed with congested mucous membrane and dry muzzle. Per-vaginal examination revealed only two fingers dilatation of cervix and twisting was felt at the level of 2 nd ring, later confirmed by per-rectal examination, which clearly indicated that there was pre-cervical uterine torsion involving cervix. As the anamnesis denoted a delayed case of torsion, uterine adhesions, poor vitality and fragility of uterus was suspected, which could have led to uterine tear if the animal was rolled. Therefore, cesarean section was performed immediately through left lower ventro-lateral oblique incision to relieve the dystocia and a macerated male fetus was delivered. The uterus was cyanotic, fragile and had multiple adhesions with omentum. These adhesions were removed, and the torsion was corrected to certain possible degree. The animal was kept on intensive fluid therapy, antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, oral uterine tonic as well as intrauterine medications for better uterine health and animal recovered uneventfully.

Indigenous cattle play a major role in income generation and livelihood security of millions of farmers especially in drought prone regions. Rajasthan state has nine recognized indigenous cattle breeds and further, more than 60 percent of the cattle are nondescript. These indigenous cattle breeds are highly suitable in adverse climatic condition but with less milk yield. In this context, the present study was carried out to elicit the major constraints faced by the dairy farmers of Rajasthan in rearing of Sahiwal, Tharparkar and Rathi indigenous cattle. The results indicated that majority of the respondents (86.1%) were lack of knowledge about improved indigenous cattle dairy farming practices.80.35% of them reported low milk productivity of indigenous cattle and 74.4% expressed non availability of exclusive marketing facilities for indigenous milk and its products as their major constraints in indigenous cattle farming. These results indicated the urgent need to formulate the specific policies and programmes to develop the potential of native breeds and resolve the farmers' issues to ensure the sustainable agriculture in the region.