Antibiotic-resistant gene discovered in soil bacterium that commonly infects foals.

Rhodococcus equi is one of the most important causes of disease in young horses,A research team based in the University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine has discovered a novel gene—erm(46)—that confers antibiotic resistance in Rhodococcus equi, a soil-dwelling baterium that commonly infects foals and causes opportunistic infections in immunocompromised people, according to a release from the university. R. equi, a gram-positive intracellular pathogen, is one of the most important causes of disease in foals between 3 weeks and 5 months of age. Read more here;http://veterinarynews.dvm360.com/antibiotic-resistant-gene-discovered-soil-bacterium-commonly-infects-foals

WOUND RECONSTRUCTION IN HORSES.

These grafts involve relocating the skin from a donor site to cover a wound and restore function and cosmetics in your veterinary equine patients.In horses, skin grafts are most often used for limb wounds where primary closure is not possible or second intention healing is delayed or not occurring. Grafts may also be considered for large wounds of the trunk, as grafting will decrease healing time. This article concentrates on free skin grafts, with an emphasis on punch grafts. With free skin grafts, the donor skin is severed from its blood supply and relocated to a wound. Free skin grafts are categorized by thickness and type. Full-thickness grafts include epidermis and the entire dermis. Split-thickness grafts include epidermis and a portion of dermis. Full- and split-thickness grafts can be either sheet grafts or island grafts. Sheet grafts are applied to the surface of a wound, and island grafts are embedded in the wound (Figure 1). Island graft techniques include punch, pinch, tunnel and modified meek grafts. The advantage of island grafts is that the failure or loss of one graft does not affect other grafts in the wound. read more here;http://veterinarynews.dvm360.com/wound-reconstruction-free-skin-grafts-horses

WOUND RECONSTRUCTION IN HORSES.

These grafts involve relocating the skin from a donor site to cover a wound and restore function and cosmetics in your veterinary equine patients.In horses, skin grafts are most often used for limb wounds where primary closure is not possible or second intention healing is delayed or not occurring. Grafts may also be considered for large wounds of the trunk, as grafting will decrease healing time. This article concentrates on free skin grafts, with an emphasis on punch grafts. With free skin grafts, the donor skin is severed from its blood supply and relocated to a wound. Free skin grafts are categorized by thickness and type. Full-thickness grafts include epidermis and the entire dermis. Split-thickness grafts include epidermis and a portion of dermis. Full- and split-thickness grafts can be either sheet grafts or island grafts. Sheet grafts are applied to the surface of a wound, and island grafts are embedded in the wound (Figure 1). Island graft techniques include punch, pinch, tunnel and modified meek grafts. The advantage of island grafts is that the failure or loss of one graft does not affect other grafts in the wound. read more here;http://veterinarynews.dvm360.com/wound-reconstruction-free-skin-grafts-horses

WOUND RECONSTRUCTION IN HORSES.

These grafts involve relocating the skin from a donor site to cover a wound and restore function and cosmetics in your veterinary equine patients.In horses, skin grafts are most often used for limb wounds where primary closure is not possible or second intention healing is delayed or not occurring. Grafts may also be considered for large wounds of the trunk, as grafting will decrease healing time. This article concentrates on free skin grafts, with an emphasis on punch grafts. With free skin grafts, the donor skin is severed from its blood supply and relocated to a wound. Free skin grafts are categorized by thickness and type. Full-thickness grafts include epidermis and the entire dermis. Split-thickness grafts include epidermis and a portion of dermis. Full- and split-thickness grafts can be either sheet grafts or island grafts. Sheet grafts are applied to the surface of a wound, and island grafts are embedded in the wound (Figure 1). Island graft techniques include punch, pinch, tunnel and modified meek grafts. The advantage of island grafts is that the failure or loss of one graft does not affect other grafts in the wound. read more here;http://veterinarynews.dvm360.com/wound-reconstruction-free-skin-grafts-horses

WOUND RECONSTRUCTION IN HORSES.

These grafts involve relocating the skin from a donor site to cover a wound and restore function and cosmetics in your veterinary equine patients.In horses, skin grafts are most often used for limb wounds where primary closure is not possible or second intention healing is delayed or not occurring. Grafts may also be considered for large wounds of the trunk, as grafting will decrease healing time. This article concentrates on free skin grafts, with an emphasis on punch grafts. With free skin grafts, the donor skin is severed from its blood supply and relocated to a wound. Free skin grafts are categorized by thickness and type. Full-thickness grafts include epidermis and the entire dermis. Split-thickness grafts include epidermis and a portion of dermis. Full- and split-thickness grafts can be either sheet grafts or island grafts. Sheet grafts are applied to the surface of a wound, and island grafts are embedded in the wound (Figure 1). Island graft techniques include punch, pinch, tunnel and modified meek grafts. The advantage of island grafts is that the failure or loss of one graft does not affect other grafts in the wound. read more here;http://veterinarynews.dvm360.com/wound-reconstruction-free-skin-grafts-horses

ABDOMINOCENTESIS IN THE HORSE.

Fluid analysis can provide important insights into how to manage colic and other troubling equine cases.Acute abdomen (colic), fever and weight loss are just a few of the reasons you might need to collect abdominal fluid in an adult horse. In many cases of acute abdomen, rapid and uncontaminated sampling of abdominal fluid can help you make important medical or surgical decisions. With advances in biochemical testing and wide availability of equipment at reasonable cost, abdominal fluid analysis can be used to determine the difference between compromised bowel and septic or aseptic peritonitis, as well as whether surgical intervention is indicated. Interpretation of fluid analysis also gives you an indication of whether treatment or surgery will end with a successful outcome. Several methods have been described for fluid collection, the considerations include; An abdominocentesis should be performed in a standing sedated horse that is appropriately restrained and preferably in stocks, if available. The location for fluid collection, unless indicated otherwise by ultrasound guidance, is the most dependent part of the abdomen just to the right of the ventral midline—this helps avoid penetration of the ventral curvature of the spleen. read more here;http://veterinarynews.dvm360.com/how-perform-abdominocentesis-standing-adult-horse

LIMB LACERATION IN HORSES.

. Handling hemorrhaging is basically,the same in every animal, the key being to stop the bleeding and prevent animal from going into shock.A wound is basically a break in the continuity of the tissues of the body,which could be internal or external. wounds could be deep or superficial and they could also involve vessels, this will be evidenced by spurting of blood in contrast to oozing of blood from break in integument. Wounds no matter the structures involved, are emergency situations and should be given immediate attention. The first step is to stop the bleeding by applying pressure on site,using a clean gauze or cloth ,absorbing the blood and allowing it to clot.When blood soaks the cloth do not remove just continue to add more absorbent cloth and continue adding pressure. Its important not to remove clots when formed,do not disturb the clotting process. Elevation is another means to stop bleeding, ensure the limb level is above the level of the heart, a combination of elevation and applying direct pressure will stop bleeding effectively. Ensure you seek veterinary assistance immediately . Read more here;http://www.thehorse.com/articles/36755/how-to-manage-limb-lacerations-in-horses?utm_source=Newsletter&utm_medium=lameness&utm_campaign=11-25-2015

JOINT HEALTH FOR HORSES.

Injuries can occur any time and its the responsibility of pet owners to ensure they protect their animals. Injuries ranging from trauma, slips, falls and puncture wounds should all be guarded against as this will be predisposing conditions for lameness ,poor performance and death in cases of infection of wounds. The horse stalls and stables must be comfortable,airy and free of materials that can be a source of injury such as nails, coiled wires, iron pieces e.t.c. This is where the stall mats come in handy.These are highly durable, recycled rubber that are made into comfortable mats /mattress for the comfort of your animals. The mats are flat, and provide a non-slip surface for the horses preventing any fall. The mats ensures safety by limiting the number of falls and subsequent injuries/lameness.The mats are non porous, so they are easy to clean and disinfect preventing a proliferation of bacteria,thus limiting infection. The horses are comfortable ,without the risk of any injury from penetrating objects in the stall, horses housed in stalls with these mats are clean,calm and very sociable. Get your mats here;http://www.animat.ca/en/equine/

PROMOTING EQUINE JOINT HEALTH.

Horse owners are aware that the predominant factor limiting a horse's athletic longevity is musculoskeletal injury--particularly joint problems. A common assumption is that these injuries result from wear-and-tear and age. Consequently, owners further assume there's not much to be done about it. But think again: Using sensible strategies you can promote healthy equine joints capable of withstanding athletic demands. Balanced nutrition, sensible exercise, and prompt treatment can help a horse's joints function comfortable past their prime. Exercise management is crucial for the rapidly growing horse and is best coupled with a balanced feed ration. "Articular cartilage manages its nutrition and waste product production via normal use and weight bearing, . "Exercise is good but in excess could lead to -problems."Avoiding excessive exercise strain helps reduce potential injuries in foals that could result in growth plate trauma or subchondral (under the cartilage) bone cyst formation within joints. "Moderate exercise with gradual increases in intensity and duration results in better cartilage health and fewer injuries than that imposed by sudden, high-intensity loading.However, it is equally important not to limit a growing youngster's exercise too much since strain-force application (from loading the limbs) helps bone and soft tissue develop properly. There's evidence that articular cartilage responds in a 'handed' fashion--if a young horse works in one direction more than another, cartilage development can differ between limbs .The objective should be to familiarize the young horse with the longe line or round pen rather than attempting conditioning-training work. Implement early exercise in a thoughtful, deliberate manner that limits excessive repetition, which is challenging not only to joints but to tendon, ligament, and muscle as well. Preventing injury is the primary objective in long-term joint health management in horses of all ages. For the grown horse in training ,good body weight and muscle strength are the most important goals, along with conditioning for the specific exercise demands the horse will be performing. When a joint injury does occur, the owner plays an essential role in rapid detection. Close observation and knowing a horse's structure and personality are helpful. Get veterinary attention at the first notice of abnormal clinical signs; such as swelling, heat, pain, and/or lameness; joint effusion (excess fluid in a joint space) is typically the first abnormal sign seen after joint injury. With time and progression, a steady decline in performance associated with gait changes or a horse's reluctance to perform expected athletic efforts. read more here;http://www.thehorse.com/articles/29798/promoting-lifelong-equine-joint-health?utm_source=Newsletter&utm_medium=older-horse-care&utm_campaign=11-27-2015

OMEGA-3 FATTY ACIDS AND OSTEOARTHRITIS IN HORSES.

Many owners provide their horses with omega-3 fatty acid supplements purported to support skin, coat, and hoof health; maximize joint health; manage behavior and cognitive issues; and even function as a natural insect repellent. A recent revealed the following; Supplementation with the omega-3 product increased EPA and DHA levels in blood and synovial fluid,the recombinant equine interleukin-1β injection successfully induced an inflammatory response (synovitis) in the carpus. Although more research is needed, this study supports the hypothesis that omega-3 fatty acid supplementation could modify the equine joint’s response to inflammation and might serve as an important chondro protective (protecting the cartilage) agent. read more at study here;http://www.thehorse.com/articles/36673/omega-3-fatty-acids-could-benefit-horses-with-osteoarthritis?utm_source=Newsletter&utm_medium=older-horse-care&utm_campaign=11-27-2015

ANIMAL MATS FOR COMFORT.

These mats made from recycled tyres provide support and protection to the animals. The benefits of the mats are as follows; 1) hygienic stalls. 2)prevents injuries. 3)prevents falling ,slipping. 4)absorbs pressure especially in forelimbs. read more here http://www.animat.ca/en/equine/;

CHINA CLONING FACTORY TO PRODUCE A MILLION CATTLE.

In a bid to ensure food security, China has gone the biotech way to provide beef for consumption.The world’s biggest animal “cloning factory” is due to open in China, producing one million calves a year, sniffer dogs and even genetic copies of the family pet. Interest in agricultural biotechnology has been rapidly increasing in China, where farmers are struggling to provide enough beef for the country’s growing middle classes. Prices of the meat are said to have tripled from 2000 to 2013. Mr Xu said his new facility will clone racehorses and a handful of dogs for people with “emotional ties” to their pets, but its main focus was producing cattle. However, he appeared to be more excited about its ability to churn out sniffer dogs. read more here;http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/asia/china/12013158/China-cloning-factory-to-produce-cattle-racehorses-and-pets.html

HEAT STROKE IN DOGS.

Heat stroke also referred to as heat prostration occurs when there is an elevated temperature. Dogs are very uncomfortable in hot environment than in cold regions.Dogs can easily suffer heat stress leading to prostration and consequently death within a short period. Ventilation is very important to health of pet,thus we need to ensure the environment is airy and conducive.Dogs cool themselves by panting which progressively become ineffective in extreme heat,poor ventilation or when pet is dehydrated because of lack of moisture on the tongue. Conditions that predisposes to heat stress are as follows 1) extreme temperatures. 2) locking a door in a car with windows up. 3) tying a dog in the sun for a long time. 4) exercising your dog on a hot day. Signs of heat stroke ; 1) restlessness 2)excessive panting. 3)weakness. 4) ropy,stringy saliva. 5) lying on the side,with extended limbs. What to do when you observe signs of heat; 1) take pet to cool area.2) give fresh cool water 3) cool the pet down. Cooling the pet down must not be rapid by pouring water on dog or bathing dog;, rather you use cold rags on the back line and cool the paws. A swab of alcohol can be rubbed on the back line to bring the temperature down and then seek veterinary attention to ascertain the condition of the dog.

RE; FEMALE GENITAL MUTILATION.

Gambia bans this practice; one down many more countries to go!!!he Gambian government has introduced a ban on Female Genital Mutilation.Information Minister, Sheriff Bojang, on Tuesday in Banjul announced the order by President Yahya Jammeh, which came into force immediately.He said 158 females who carry out circumcision have stopped since a campaign was launched by the Gambia Committee for Traditional Practices. “In May, the committee urged the National Assembly to heed the call by local chiefs and communities to ban FGM in the country.It is not clear whether legislation would be put in place to enforce the ban,” he said. read more here; http://www.premiumtimesng.com/foreign/west-africa-foreign/193849-gambia-bans-female-genital-mutilation.html.

Similar proteins protect the skin of humans and turtles.

A new study shows the similarities between the skin of turtles and man. The turtle shell is a highly successful concept of evolutionary development and its defensive function clearly distinguishes turtles and tortoises from other reptiles. In the study, the working group led by Leopold Eckhart investigated the genes responsible for the skin layers of the shell of the European terrapin and a North American species of turtle, in order to compare them with the genes of human skin. The study findings suggest that a hard shell was formed as the result of mutations in a group of genes known as the Epidermal Differentiation Complex (EDC). Comparisons of genome data from various reptiles suggest that the EDC mutations responsible occurred when turtles split off from other reptiles around 250 million years ago. This new study shows that evolutionarily related genes have a protective function both in humans and also in tortoises and turtles. It is hoped that comparing the skin of humans and animals will provide a better understanding of the interaction of proteins. In future, the knowledge derived from this may lead to medical applications, for example to improved treatment for psoriasis, in which EDC gene mutations are found. read more here;http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2015/11/151125104911.htm

Precision agriculture the future of food security.

Farmers that don’t learn about New agriculture technologies will get left behind because without smart farming ,the expected output will be low or nonexistent.


Whether it is information and technology or equipment technology, there are technologies that will help our agricultural industry deliver a sustainable, affordable, and nutritious supply of food to global consumers.

 This is where precision agriculture comes to play ;where the use of data and technology driven alternatives ensure maximum output.

 Precision agriculture enables a farmer to do more within a short space of time and sure of desired harvest.

Precision agriculture is a new approach to agriculture: machines,data analysis and robots are used to get the results required.

 A farmer based on precision agriculture can determine when to plant,where and how.Soil analysis, moisture analysis and weather forecast can help prevent loses.if planting is done in unfavorable sites. 

Precision agriculture in animal husbandry helps farmers to manage the flock properly,there are various approaches but all with the same aim to alert farmers of any health issues or environmental issues and ensure rapid response and the desired result of more products at expected times.

Veterinary medicine: URTICARIA IN DOGS.

Veterinary medicine: URTICARIA IN DOGS.: Urticaria also called hives is an allergic reaction to an irritant which could be pollen, parasite,dust mites,food, chemicals or even pa...

URTICARIA IN DOGS.

Urticaria also called hives is an allergic reaction to an irritant which could be pollen, parasite,dust mites,food, chemicals or even paints or sprays.The trigger /allergen initiates a chemical reaction in the body where mast cells respond by releasing histamine,thus the dog breaks out in hives/eruptions on the body. The allergen varies for different patients and the response time also varies with allergen. The dogs have irritating eruptions on the body that are itchy, making the dog very restless and uncomfortable. The first step is to trace/track your pet's movement prior to the irritation; check the food; is it new? 2) did you change shampoo/ lotion. 3) check for ectoparasite. Do a check to limit exposure to the allergen and proceed to treat the dog by using a topical antihistamine agent.Natural remedies can also be effective; 1) a mix of vinegar and water in a squirt bottle and apply all over the body. 2)aloe vera gel can be rubbed on the body ,its anti inflammatory,antihistamine properties works perfectly for this condition. When you note the allergen prevent future exposure.

SNAKE BITES IN DOGS.

photo credit = internet. Dogs are generally curious,rampaging through stuff,sticking heads in holes and generally running around for fun.They have the tendency to be bitten by snakes ,and when this happens its an emergency and first aid is essential and a necessity. When dogs are bitten its better to assume the snake is poisonous and so initiate treatment protocol.Snake bites are complex and need attention immediately since the various venom's exhibit different signs. Some snakes venom cause shock and rapid death ,while other cause paralysis and it usually requires a large quantity of venom before much damage is done and some others have concentrated venom resulting in death within hours. When a dog is bitten the first step is to prevent movement of the dog to prevent circulation of venom; 1) immobilize the limb. 2)keep animal calm 3)prevent the venom from circulating by using a tourniquet and ice pack in the area 4) seek veterinary attention immediately where an anti-venom is administered. When a dog is bitten DO NOT; 1) cut the bite site open. 2)attempt to suck poison out. 3) do not leave dog unattended to and try to kill snake. Snake bite code is save the pet first and try to kill the snake later.

BENEFITS OF METRONIDAZOLE IN DOGS.

This is a must have for dog owners especially for diarrhea, and in cases of inflammatory bowel disease. The drug is important for the following reasons; 1) used gastrointestinal infections. 2) cases of tetanus. 3)wound infections after surgery. 4)internal parasites. 5)treat pneumonia. 6) cases of food poisoning. 7)treatment of parvo viral infection. 8) infections affecting the reproductive organs. 9) infections of the oral cavity.