Added attention during rainy season can earn better results in livestock

Ludhiana-04-July, 2013



During monsoon period, humidity rises and inside the sheds it may further increase due to expirated air, heat and wastes of animals leading to worsening of microclimate which goes beyond comfort limits and lead to various kinds of problems i.e. stress, injury, infectious diseases, parasites etc. The information was revealed by Dr. A.L.Saini HOD livestock Production and management, Guru Angad Dev Veterinary & Animal Sciences University. He said that hot and humid conditions may cause outbreaks or increased prevalence of certain infectious diseases like Salmonellosis, Colibacillosis, mycotoxicosis and parasitic infestation. Increased incidences of Hemorrhagic septicemia (H.S.) and Black quarter (B.Q.) disease are also common during hot humid conditions. Close herding and wetness, as occurs during the rainy season, appear to contribute to the spread of diseases. If not treated, these animals can become permanently infected. During the rainy season, infected animals can contaminate the soil, which can increase disease transmission to other animals

Dr. Saini said that vaccination of animals before onset of rainy season for certain diseases is important. Cattle are vaccinated for H.S. and B.Q. before arrival of monsoon, particularly in endemic areas. Small ruminants are vaccinated against PPR and H.S. before arrival of monsoon. Injuries, wounds, lesions etc. should be dressed regularly.

Sanitation and hygiene are critical during rainy period. Eliminate standing water and all mosquito habitats to control mosquitoes. Spray insecticides at regular intervals especially during the rainy season (Fly season). Disinfect feeders, waterers, with a 10% bleach solution.

Concentrate feed must be stored in moisture proof stores to avoid contamination especially with aflatoxins. Improved ventilation is needed which can be met through exhaust, draft fans or other outlet ventilators. Protection from wind and rain will give animals more strength to resist the disease. Covering of all the leaking points or repair of roof must be ensured before arrival of monsoon. Importance of waste management is especially magnified during extended rainy and wet periods. Proper disposal of waste is particularly important here to prevent accumulation of garbage, mud and sewage which are common breeding ground of flies and other insect vectors. Covering of open manure pits, arrangements to avoid seepage of rain water into manure pits or sheds and maintenance of lagoon liquid level should be a priority at different farms as per method of disposal of waste. Animals should not be indulged in extreme physical exertion during rainy days and should not be exposed to sun frequently. Ensure that floors are rough enough to avoid slipping of animals. Added attention during rainy season can flood farmers pocket with profits instead of draining in the form of avoidable losses.


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