The northeast monsoon may not have picked up pace, but it should help to take measures to deal with typical problems posed by the season. That includes outbreak of diseases among farm animals and household pets. Death among calves, lambs and kids goes up considerably at this time of the year.
Pups also have to be insulated against a range of diseases. “Pups, above six weeks old, should be vaccinated against paroviral enteritis, distemper, leptospirosis, and have to be de-wormed regularly,” says Dr. S. Meenakshi Sundaram, professor, Department of Livestock Production and Management, Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (Tanuvas).
The pups, and other pet animals, can be more prone to respiratory diseases. Maggots wounds, skin problems, otitis (Inflammation of ear canal), and foot eczema are other common problems during the monsoon season. The preventive measures to be followed are : 1) Do not allow the pet animals to play in the water. 2) Keep them in moisture-free environment. 3) Regular brushing of the skin. 4) Periodical ear cleaning.
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“The barn [a large farm building used for storing farm products and sheltering livestock] has to be kept clean. It should be free of dampness and moistness, which could attract organisms causing pneumonia and diarrhoea. The building can be made warm by fixing electrical lamps, and bulbs,” he said.
“Farm animals have to be de-wormed and vaccinated against foot and mouth diseases. Calves, about three-months old, lambs, and goats, about two-months old, should be vaccinated against FMD,” said Dr. Sundaram.
In case of change in body temperature and cough, farm animals and pups should be taken to the veterinary hospital for further treatment. Farmers are advised to avoid stagnation of water in barns. The water should be changed every day. Kennels should be kept clean. During this period, normal food can be given to farm animals and pups.
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