Asian Journal of Research in Animal and Veterinary Sciences
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Study of Haemato-biochemical Alterations of Canine Monocytic Ehrlichiosis (CME) in Seropositive Dogs of Kathmandu Valley: Prevalence and Risk Factors
A cross-sectional study was conducted to study diagnostic importance of haemato-biochemical alterations of Canine Monocytic Ehrlichiosis (CME) in seropositive dogs. A sampling of 88 dogs from different hospitals and clinics from Kathmandu Valley was conducted from June to October2024 and testing via rapid antibody kit was done for estimation of haemato-biochemical alterations and its associated risk factors. The prevalence of Ehrlichiacanis (E.canis) was highest in mixed breed (35.23%) followed by German shepherd (12.50 %), Spitz (15.91%), Golden retriever (6.82%), Mongrel (5.68%), Labrador (4.55%), Lhasa apso (4.55%), Cocker, Tibetan mastiff and Local (3.41%), and Pug and Husky were least infected breeds. Female dogs were more predisposed to Ehrlichiacanis (E. canis) than male dogs (35%). The highest prevalence of Ehrlichiacanis (E. canis) was seen in monsoon (62.50%), followed by spring season (30.68%) and the lowest incidence in autumn. The mean and range of seropositive dogs were 6.52±3.96 and 0.5 to 17 years respectively. Compared to old age, young (43.16%) and middle (44.32%) age group showed a higher predisposition. In addition, significant low PCV, TEC, Hb, albumin, thrombocytes, and significant increase in ALP, total serum bilirubin, direct bilirubin, BUN, Creatinine and leukocyte indicate that haemato-biochemical tests can play a significant role in accurate diagnosis of Ehrlichiacanis (E.canis). The mean value of neutrophil, lymphocyte, monocyte, eosinophil, basophil, ALT, total protein and random blood was significant at p-value of <0.05. This study showed mark alterations in haemato-biochemcial parameters of in seropositive dogs when compared with apparently healthy dogs
Effect of Nano Zinc Supplementation on the Blood Profile, Mineral Metabolites and Oxidative Stress Biomarkers of Maradi Bucks
This study investigated the blood profile, mineral metabolites and blood oxidative stress biomarkers of maradi bucks fed nano zinc oxide supplementation diets. A total of sixteen (16) bucks aged between 7-9 months with average weight of 9.15±1.64kg were used for this experiment. Sixteen (16) maradi bucks with similar average weight were randomly allotted after weight equalization to four treatment groups (0mg/kg nZnO, 650mg/kg nZnO, 700mg/kg nZnO, 750mg/kg nZnO respectively) in a completely randomized design. Blood was collected at the end of 84days feeding trial and data collected includes; haematological and serum biochemical indices, blood minerals and oxidative stress biomarker indices. Data collected were subjected to a one-way analysis of variance. Results revealed there were significant differences (P<0.05) in Packed Cell Volume (PCV), Haemoglobin (Hb) and Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV) values across experimental treatment. Bucks on 0mg/kg nZnO, 650mg/kg nZnO, and 700mg/kg nZnO were significantly higher than bucks on 750mg/kg nZnO. Biochemical indices such as total protein, albumin and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) also differ across the treatment groups. Potassium and chloride values were similar across the supplementation groups while sodium and calcium differ significantly (P<0.05). The activity of the oxidative stress indicator (catalase) was greatly influenced by nano zinc oxide. The use of nZnO is environmentally friendly as it helped to reduce the levels of environmental pollution that could have happen using conventional Zinc
Prevalence of Gastrointestinal Parasites in Cattle at Keraniganj Upazila, Dhaka, Bangladesh
Background: Cattle play a crucial role in the agricultural economy of Bangladesh, serving as a primary source of livestock for both farming and dairy production. Gastrointestinal parasitism is a world-wide concern in cattle. The objective of this study was to investigate the gastrointestinal parasite of cattle at Kerani Ganj upazila in Dhaka.
Methods: A total of 184 samples were collected by simple random processing from the household’s farm of Keraniganj Upazila and examined through simple sedimentation technique.
Results: Faecal sedimentation revealed 141 positive samples out of 184 (76.63%) were infected, where six species of helminths, namely Fasciola spp. (6.52%), Paramphistomum spp. (16.30%), Trichuris spp. (11.41%), Strongyloides spp. (26.63%), Dictyocaulus spp. (3.80%), Moniezia spp. (2.72%) and three species of protozoa Eimeria spp. (8.69%), Balantidium spp. (19.02%), Cryptosporidium spp. (23.91%) were identified, respectively. In case of gender-wise prevalence, a little difference was observed where females (84.47%) were infected more than males (64.19%). Moreover, the highest prevalence (86.27%) was seen in the younger groups of age, followed by 72.93% in adult of more than 6 months. In addition to this, the prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites in non-deworming animals was found 97.29% which was higher than deworming animals (44.59%).
Conclusions: The increased prevalence observed in the study area can be linked to geo-climatic factors and the presence of water-logged regions. Additionally, inadequate management practices, poor nutrition, limited awareness, and infrequent de-worming contributed to the higher occurrence of gastrointestinal parasites
Evaluating the Replacement of Fishmeal with Cockroach Meal in Broiler Diets: Effects on Growth Performance, Carcass Traits and Meat Quality of Broiler Chickens
A total of 180-day-old Cobb 500 broiler chicks were brooded for two weeks before being randomly assigned to three dietary treatments (D1, D2 and D3) in a completely randomized design. Dietary treatment D1 was a commercial broiler diet as a control, while Diet D2 contained 5% cockroach meal and Diet 3 having 5% fishmeal as sources of animal protein in the two formulations. The birds were replicated four times in each dietary treatment and raised in groups of 15 birds in a pen. Feed intake and growth performance was assessed for a period of 28 days, when 20 birds from each treatment were slaughtered and carcass traits and meat quality attributes assessed. Cockroach meal contained higher crude protein (72.14%) and essential amino acids than fishmeal. Birds fed the diet containing cockroach meal (D2) achieved comparable final body weight (1896.0 g) and weight gain (1586.5 g) to those on the commercial diet, with superior (P<0.05) feed conversion ratio (1.37), while those on fishmeal diet (D3) performed least (1.59). Birds fed on diets D1 and D2 had similar (P>0.05) weights of carcass (1515.37 g and 1394.0 g, respectively) and prime cuts (breast, thighs and drumsticks) and these weights were greater (P<0.05) than from those on D3. The parameters of meat quality traits were not (P>0.05) affected by diet, except for the values of pH and yellowness (b*), which were higher (P<0.05) in diet D2 (pH=6.22, b* = 9.45) compared to D3 (pH=5.71, b* =6.85). In conclusion, replacing fishmeal with cockroach meal supported efficient growth, improved carcass yield, and maintained acceptable meat quality. These findings suggest that cockroach meal is a promising, sustainable, and cost-effective protein source for broiler production. Further studies are recommended to establish the optimal level of inclusion of cockroach meal for enhanced growth performance of broiler chickens
Assessment of Artificial Insemination on Smallholder Dairy Farmers’ Livelihoods in Muheza District of the Tanga Region in Tanzania
This study investigated artificial insemination (AI)\u27s impact on Tanzanian smallholder dairy farmers\u27 livelihoods. 116 farmers in Muheza district were surveyed using a cross-sectional design. Data analysis employed a Probit model and Propensity Score Matching (PSM) to account for self-selection bias in AI adoption. This rigorous approach allowed isolation of impact of AI from other factors influencing farmer livelihoods. AI adoption significantly improved smallholder dairy farmers\u27 livelihoods, notably increasing daily meal consumption and income. Substantially higher incomes were reported from AI adopters than non-adopters, indicating enhanced economic stability. This improvement is likely due to superior genetics leading to healthier, more productive cattle and increased milk production. Additionally, AI adoption may indirectly boost farming practices through knowledge transfer and support networks. Therefore, to significantly boost food security and economic well-being, the Tanzanian government should prioritize expanding access to superior dairy genetics and high-quality breeding services for smallholder farmers. This targeted investment will dramatically improve livelihoods not only in Muheza district of the Tanga region but also in other rural communities in Tanzania
Epidemiological and Clinical Profile of Canine Parvoviral Enteritis in Kathmandu and Lalitpur Districts of Nepal
Canine parvoviral enteritis (CPE) is a highly contagious disease in dogs, characterised by vomiting and diarrhoea. CPV primarily targets rapidly dividing cells in the intestinal crypts, resulting in severe gastrointestinal symptoms including vomiting, bloody diarrhoea, dehydration, and electrolyte imbalance. This study assessed the prevalence and associated risk factors of canine parvoviral enteritis in dogs. A total of 56 dogs diagnosed with canine parvoviral enteritis were included in the study—28 from the Central Referral Veterinary Hospital (CRVH), Kathmandu, and 28 from the Veterinary Hospital and Livestock Service Expert Center (VHLSEC), Lalitpur. Diagnosis was made based on clinical history, clinical examination, and CPV antigen kit testing. Dogs were categorised according to breed, age group, clinical history, sexes and vaccination status. The findings showed the highest prevalence of canine parvoviral enteritis among local breeds (25%), and the lowest among Dobermanns (3.57%). By age group, the highest prevalence (75%) was observed in the 2–5 months age group, and the lowest (14.29%) in dogs older than 12 months. Clinical history included vomiting, haemorrhagic diarrhoea, non-haemorrhagic diarrhoea, and foul-smelling faeces, most frequently reported in the 2–5 months age group. In terms of sex, male dogs had a higher prevalence (37.30%) compared to females (27.14%). Unvaccinated dogs exhibited a significantly higher prevalence (82.14%) compared to vaccinated dogs (17.86%). In conclusion, although dogs of all age group, breeds, and sexes are susceptible to CPV infection, puppies are more commonly affected. Due to the short duration of the study, the sample size was limited. Further studies are recommended to better understand the disease\u27s transmission dynamics and to improve prevention and management strategies
Survival of Sperm of Mpwapwa Bulls in Ambient-temperature Diluents in the Climatic Conditions of Tanzania
This study was conducted at the TALIRI Mpwapwa research center in Dodoma, Tanzania. It investigated the viability of Mpwapwa breed bull sperm in ambient temperature diluents for potential use in a local artificial insemination (AI) program. Thirty-five bulls were selected from 53 after breeding soundness examinations. Semen was collected via electro-ejaculation and assessed for volume, density, motility, and morphology. Each ejaculate was divided into three aliquots and diluted (1:1) with coconut water, egg yolk-TRIS, or Optixcell at 32°C, then loaded into straws. A two-year study, including a pilot (Year 1, n=3 bulls) and main study (Year 2, n=35 bulls), assessed the proportion of sperm demonstrating progressive motility (surviving) at varying temperatures (Year 1: 20°C, 27°C, 33°C; and Year 2: 8°C, 17°C, 33°C) over 6, 24, 48, 72 and 120 hours of incubation. Progressive motility (survival) was assessed using CASA. Data analysis utilized a two-stage zero-inflated negative binomial model, incorporating repeated-measures binary logistic and negative binomial models. Year 1 showed better sperm survival at 20°C than 33°C, and better survival in Optixcell and Tris than coconut water. Year 2 demonstrated better survival at 8°C than 33°C, with significantly poorer survival in coconut water. Considering 50% survival as the AI threshold, Optixcell at 8°C or 17°C maintained this level at 48 hours, while Tris only achieved it at 8°C. The study concludes that while lower temperatures improve survival, sufficient sperm survived at 17°C in Optixcell for potential use in a local AI service using ambient temperature diluents
Postnatal Care and Surgical Management of Congenital Giant Omphalocele in a Sahiwal Cross Calf: A Case Report
Omphalocele is a notorious congenital anomaly for bovine calves. Calves affected with this condition are born with a defective abdominal wall. A day-old, newborn female Sahiwal cross calf weighing 21 kg was admitted to the Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh, Bangladesh, because of a hairless mass covered by a thin paper-like membrane (amnion) detected by the owner in the navel area immediately after birth. The owner wrapped the navel mass with a clean and moist cloth to keep the membrane intact, avoid dirt, and protect the mass from pressure damage. Clinical investigation of the calf’s navel mass revealed omphalocele containing intestinal loops and liver. Herniorrhaphy was performed to close the abdominal opening. Postsurgically, medication with normal saline, antibiotic, anti-inflammatory and antihistaminic were performed properly. The calf showed steady and progressive recovery without postsurgical complications. This report warrants a record for veterinarians that an appropriate surgical approach and proper first care and maintenance are essential for successful recovery of a case of giant omphalocele in a bovine calf
Determination of Antimicrobial Activity of Selected Commercial Antibiotics, Bromelain and Chitosan against Gut Bacteria Isolated from Chicken Kept in Juja Sub-County, Kenya
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a threat to poultry industry and thus requires surveillance and search for alternative drugs. A cross-sectional study was conducted in Juja Sub-County, Kenya, to determine the prevalence and risk factors of gut bacteria isolated from 200 chicken. A structured questionnaire was administered to 40 chicken farmers to evaluate risk factors. A total of 200 cloacal swab samples were collected from chicken for bacteriological analysis. In vitro activity of selected antibiotics against the bacteria was conducted using the disc diffusion method. The activity of bromelain and chitosan against six randomly selected antibiotic resistant bacteria was also conducted. The prevalence of gut bacteria in the chicken was 92.5% (185/200) and was higher on chicken from farms where chickens were mixed with other species, starters and those with history of gut conditions (p<0.05). The isolated bacteria were Salmonella spp. (46.5%), Escherichia coli (34%) and Staphylococcus aureus (12%). Salmonella spp. and E. coli isolates had the highest resistance against nalidixic acid (90.4%; 92.9%), and penicillin (76.2%; 85.7%), respectively. Notably, S. aureus isolates were more resistant to penicillin (90%) and nalidixic acid (90%). The minimum inhibitory concentration of bromelain and chitosan were: Salmonella spp., (125 µg/ml, 250 µg/ml) and E. coli (125 µg/ml, 500 µg/ml). These findings show that the burden of gut bacteria and AMR in the chicken in the study area was high. However, bromelain and chitosan exhibited some antimicrobial activity against antibiotic-resistant bacteria. This study highlights the potential development of bromelain and chitosan as alternative antimicrobial agents
Crossbreeding of German Brown x N’dama Cattle at Ibadan – I - Mortality Patterns of German Brown, N’dama, and Their Crossbreds
A crossbreeding programme between purebred German brown and N’dama was carried out at the University of Ibadan Teaching and Research farm between 1978 – 1985. The mortality records of 344 purebred German Brown, N’dama, and their crossbreds were examined involving purebred German brown (GBP), purebred N’dama (NDL), 75% N’dama-bred, 50% N’dama-bred, 37.5% N’dama-bred and 25% N’dama-bred based on the level of N’dama gene inheritance. Chi-square and the least square means and analysis of variance procedure for unequal subclass number as outlined by SAS (1990) was used in the analysis. Average mortality rates between 1978 – 1985 showed that the mortality rate significantly (P<0.05) increased from low to high with increasing exotic inheritance; NDB1 had 7.17%, GBND had 13.14% which were significantly (P<0.05) better than GBB2 with 28.4% and GBB1 with 30.13% and even the purebred NDL with 22.13% mortality rates. The purebred GBL died most with 37.04%. The results suggest that crossbreds of higher exotic gene inheritance (GBB1 and GBB2) died more than crossbreds of lower exotic inheritance (NDB1 and GBND). Hence, adaptability to the local environment was better with increased gene proportion of the crossbreds to the indigenous N’dama cattle