This archive report was first published on 23 May 2020.
Investigating a Mixed Livestock Farm in Ruiru ¶
On a recent visit to a mixed livestock farm in Ruiru, I encountered a variety of issues that threatened the health and productivity of the animals. The farm, owned by Kimani, had a diverse range of livestock, including dairy cattle, pigs, goats, sheep, and chickens.
As I began my investigation, I noted that the farm had a good perimeter fence, internal partitions, and a disinfectant footbath at the main gate. However, I observed that the empty grower pig houses needed to be redesigned before restocking, and the waste water channel was an open one that ran through several pig pens.
One of the first issues I identified was lumpy skin disease, which had affected several of the animals. I confirmed that the disease presented in the manner observed when the animal had high residual immunity from previous exposure or vaccination. I advised Kimani to vaccinate his animals once a year against the disease in future.
Another issue I encountered was coccidiosis, which had affected the layer chickens. Kimani had described the birds as having orange-brown droppings, sometimes with blood drops. I advised him to separate the layers from the free-range birds in the future, as the two types of birds should not be kept in close proximity.
Foot and mouth disease (FMD) was also a major issue on the farm. I confirmed that the cows had FMD earlier in the year, which had caused limping and cracked hooves. I trimmed the hooves and gave an antibiotic and anti-inflammatory injections to one very affected bull.
Finally, I identified several issues with the pigs, including mange caused by mites and bacterial infection on the ears of an adult sow. I gave injections for the mite infestations and provided antibiotics for the sow's infection. I also instructed Kimani to wash the pigs once per week with a chemical that kills ticks, fleas, mites, and flies.
Overall, my investigation highlighted several key issues that needed to be addressed on the farm. With proper management and care, I was confident that the animals could thrive and the farm could become a successful and productive operation.
Published on May 23, 2020
