animal health

There are various agricultural residues that are produced in both small- and large-scale farms. In Kenya, most of the farm left overs includes; rice straw, rice husks, maize copes (corn stover) and wheat straws. The residues in many farms are used as fodder for animals, landfill or others will end up being burnt during land

Forage grasses to grow for your dairy cattle By David Njenga Cultivating forage crops on the farm is a cost-effective approach for feeding dairy cattle as feeding cost constitute about 70-80% of the cost of production. There are different varieties of fodder crops and this article focuses on grasses that farmers can grow highlighting optimal

By Dr Ann Wachira Newcastle disease (ND) affects birds globally, and chicken are particularly vulnerable. It is caused by a virus called avian paramyxovirus serotype type 1 (APMV-1). There are five types of APMV-1 strains, which are categorized based on their strength in chicken: a) strong and affecting organs (viscerotropic velogenic), b) strong and affecting

All about housing, feeding and disease management in chicks. By Dr Ann M. Wachira Choosing proper chick housing Providing suitable housing for your chicks is a crucial step in ensuring their well-being. A well-designed chick shelter safeguards them from various threats, including adverse weather conditions such as rain, sun, cold winds, and chilly night-time temperatures.

By Faith Maiyo Introduction Black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) is from Stratiomyidae family in the Diptera order. It is one of the most beneficial and most widespread form of insect farming in the world. The larvae are an excellent source of food for many animals like poultry, bait for fish and pigs. At different stages

By Dr Ann M. Wachira Selecting healthy day-old chicks is crucial for a thriving poultry farm. Begin by locating a reputable hatchery or supplier recognized for their high-quality chicks. Seek advice from local livestock professionals or poultry farmer associations. When inspecting the chicks, ensure they have bright eyes, clean beaks, and clean, fluffy feathers. Avoid

While conducting a field survey in Murungai village within Laikipia County, I meet Wanjiku wa Kinyua with a 20-litre-Knapsack sprayer on her back spraying the young maize crops on her farm. The spray includes a strong-smelling herb known as wild marigold or Tagetes minuta L. This plant is an invasive weed in Kenya and a

By Author NAIROBI, KENYA – May 2, 2023 – Key local stakeholders representing the veterinary and farming sector, have met in Nairobi, Kenya, today for Zoetis’ new African Livestock Productivity and Health Advancement Plus (A.L.P.H.A. Plus) initiative, a continuation of the A.L.P.H.A. initiative first launched in 2017. This first event in Kenya marks the significant