Winner Edwin Farms Initiative

PROF. MATHEW ADAMU EMERGES PRESIDENT, BOARD OF VETERINARY COUNCIL OF NIGERIA

Our excitement knows no bounds as we heartily and most joyfully, write on behalf of the Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association Benue State Chapter, to most sincerely congratulate our dear Adviser, Prof. Mathew Adamu FCVSN, KSM on his well deserved victory as the 12th President of our noble regulatory body, the Governing Council Board of the Veterinary Council of Nigeria, VCN.

We are very excited that Prof. Adamu is well prepared having been Member then Vice President of the council prior to this exalted position.

It should be noted, that Prof. Adamu has held several positions such as Head, Department of Veterinary Parasitology and Entomology, Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University Makurdi and
Director, Veterinary Teaching Hospital of the same University.
He was Chairman, Senate Standing Committee on Security, then Deputy Dean and Dean, College of Veterinary Medicine respectively, Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University, Makurdi.

Therefore, his excellent performance in this covated office is not in doubt at all.

We enjoin the brand new president, Prof. Adamu to use his wealth of experience, knowledge, connections and resources to reposition and uplift the Veterinary Profession to the zenith both in quality and standard amongst the comity of regulatory bodies in the world.

Congratulations, Prof. Mathew Adamu, FCVSN KSM.

Why Light is Important for Egg Production

Did you know that chickens need at least 14-16 hours of light daily to lay eggs consistently?

💡 How Light Affects Egg Production:
✅ Chickens rely on light to stimulate their pineal gland, which controls hormone production for egg-laying.
✅ Shorter daylight hours in rainy or cold seasons can reduce egg production.
✅ Farmers use artificial lighting in poultry houses to maintain egg production year-round.

🌞 How to Ensure Consistent Egg Production:
✔️ Provide at least 14-16 hours of light daily.
✔️ If natural light is insufficient, use energy-efficient bulbs in the coop.
✔️ Avoid sudden lighting changes—it can stress the birds and affect egg-laying.

Have you noticed changes in your hens’ egg production during different seasons? Share your experience in the comments!

Dual-Purpose Chickens: Best for Small Farmers!

If you want chickens that provide both eggs and meat, dual-purpose breeds are the way to go! Unlike layers that focus only on egg production or broilers that grow fast for meat, dual-purpose chickens offer a balance between both.

✨ Popular Dual-Purpose Breeds:
✅ Rhode Island Red – Lays up to 300 eggs per year and has good meat quality.
✅ Sussex – A hardy breed that produces around 250 eggs and grows well for meat.
✅ Plymouth Rock – A good forager, laying 200-250 eggs while also developing a decent body size.

🔹 Why Choose Dual-Purpose Chickens?
✔️ They are hardy and can thrive in different conditions.
✔️ They provide both eggs and meat, making them cost-effective.
✔️ They are low-maintenance, perfect for free-range or small farms.

While they don’t grow as fast as broilers or lay as many eggs as commercial layers, they are an excellent choice for farmers who want both products from one flock.

Would you choose dual-purpose chickens over broilers or layers? Drop your thoughts below!

Why Do Chickens Grow So Fast?

Have you ever wondered why broiler chickens reach market weight in just 5-7 weeks? The secret isn’t steroids or hormones—it’s all about genetics, nutrition, and proper management!

✅ Selective Breeding – Over the years, poultry farmers have bred chickens that grow faster and convert feed efficiently.
✅ High-Quality Feed – Broilers eat scientifically formulated diets rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals to support rapid growth.
✅ Controlled Environment – Temperature, lighting, and ventilation are managed to keep birds stress-free and growing fast.
✅ Efficient Digestion – Chickens have a simple digestive system that quickly absorbs nutrients for body growth.

This fast growth makes poultry farming very profitable, but it also means farmers must be extra careful with disease control, feed quality, and stress management to avoid losses.

Would you ever consider raising broilers? Let us know in the comments!

Common Mistakes in Goat Farm Construction & How to Avoid Them

Building a successful goat farm requires careful planning. Avoiding these common mistakes can improve productivity, reduce losses, and increase profitability:

1️⃣ Inadequate Space – Goats need room to move. Provide 10-15 sq. ft. per goat indoors and 20-30 sq. ft. outdoors.

2️⃣ Poor Ventilation – Lack of airflow can cause respiratory issues. Use windows, vents, or fans to allow 4-6 air changes per hour.

3️⃣ Weak Fencing – Goats are escape artists. Use sturdy, 4-ft-tall fencing like electric or high-tensile wire.

4️⃣ Improper Water & Feeding Systems – Ensure goats always have clean water and nutritious feed to prevent dehydration and malnutrition.

5️⃣ Lack of Shade & Shelter – Protect goats from extreme weather with well-ventilated shelters or shaded areas.

6️⃣ Poor Manure Management – Prevent disease and pollution by implementing regular cleaning and composting.

7️⃣ Insufficient Lighting – Ensure 10-12 hours of light per day to boost productivity and reduce stress.

8️⃣ Weak Biosecurity Measures – Prevent disease outbreaks by using vaccination, parasite control, and proper sanitation.

By planning wisely and consulting experts, you can create a safe, efficient, and profitable goat farm.

Hypothermia in Calves: Causes, Symptoms, and Prevention

Hypothermia occurs when a calf’s body temperature drops below normal (around 101.5°F or 38.5°C). This can lead to weakness, slow growth, and even death if not treated quickly. Young calves, especially newborns, are most at risk.

🔹 Causes of Hypothermia in Calves

1️⃣ Cold Weather – Newborn calves have little fat and can’t regulate their body temperature well.

2️⃣ Wet Conditions – Wet calves lose heat quickly. Rain, snow, or damp bedding increases the risk.

3️⃣ Wind Chill – Strong winds can rapidly lower body temperature, especially if calves don’t have proper shelter.

4️⃣ Lack of Shelter – Calves need a dry, draft-free place to stay warm.

5️⃣ Not Enough Colostrum – Colostrum (first milk) provides warmth and immunity. Calves that don’t get enough in the first 6–12 hours are weaker.

6️⃣ Weak or Sick Calves – Premature, sick, or underfed calves struggle to stay warm.

7️⃣ Poor Nutrition – Calves that don’t get enough milk or nutrients lack the energy to generate heat.

🔹 Symptoms of Hypothermia

✔ Shivering (may not always be present)
✔ Weakness, tiredness, or reluctance to stand
✔ Reduced appetite or refusal to suckle
✔ Cold ears, legs, or body
✔ Rapid breathing as the body struggles to warm up
✔ Poor muscle control (stumbling or difficulty standing)
✔ Frostbite (ears, tail, or hooves may turn pale or frozen in severe cases)

🔹 How to Prevent Hypothermia

✅ Provide Warm Shelter – Keep calves in a dry, draft-free area, especially in cold weather.

✅ Use Dry Bedding – Straw or wood shavings help insulate against the cold.

✅ Ensure Early Colostrum Intake – Feed colostrum within the first 6 hours to boost immunity and energy.

✅ Monitor Calf Health – Watch for weak or sick calves and provide extra care.

✅ Use Extra Warmth if Needed – Heat lamps, calf jackets, or warming boxes can help in extreme cold.

✅ Feed Properly – Ensure calves get enough milk or milk replacer to maintain body heat.

✅ Prevent Overcrowding – Calves need space to rest comfortably and avoid stress.

✅ Block Wind Exposure – Use windbreaks or barriers in outdoor areas to reduce heat loss.

🔹 Treating Hypothermia in Calves

🔥 Warm Slowly – Wrap the calf in warm, dry towels or blankets. Avoid heating too quickly to prevent shock.

🥛 Feed Warm Milk – Provide warm milk or milk replacer. Tube feeding may be necessary if the calf is too weak to suckle.

👨‍⚕️ Call a Vet if Severe – If the calf is very weak, a vet may need to provide IV fluids or other treatments.

📢 Final Thoughts

Cold weather can be tough on young calves, but proper care, shelter, and nutrition can keep them safe and healthy. Always watch for early signs of hypothermia and act fast to prevent serious health issues.

💬 Have you faced hypothermia issues on your farm? Share your experiences in the comments! ⬇

Mastitis in Cattle: Causes and Prevention 🐄💡

Mastitis is a common yet serious condition in dairy cattle that affects the udder, leading to reduced milk production and financial losses. This inflammation is typically caused by bacterial infections but can also result from poor management practices. Here’s what every farmer needs to know:

🚨 Causes of Mastitis in Cattle

1️⃣ Bacterial Infections – The main culprits include:
• Staphylococcus aureus (chronic mastitis)
• Escherichia coli (acute mastitis)
• Streptococcus agalactiae (common in dairy cows)
• Mycoplasma species

2️⃣ Poor Hygiene – Dirty bedding, contaminated milking equipment, and improper udder cleaning introduce harmful bacteria.

3️⃣ Improper Milking Techniques – Over-milking, using poorly maintained machines, or rough handling can damage the udder.

4️⃣ Udder Injuries – Kicks, environmental hazards, or rough handling can create openings for bacterial infections.

5️⃣ Stress Factors – Extreme temperatures, overcrowding, poor nutrition, or long transport can weaken immunity.

6️⃣ High Milk Yield – Cows producing large amounts of milk are more prone to udder pressure and damage.

7️⃣ Nutritional Deficiencies – A poor diet weakens immunity, making cows more vulnerable to infections.

✅ How to Prevent Mastitis in Your Herd

🔹 1. Maintain Hygiene
✔ Always clean and disinfect the udder before and after milking.
✔ Sanitize milking equipment regularly.
✔ Keep barns clean and bedding dry.

🔹 2. Use Proper Milking Techniques
✔ Handle udders gently.
✔ Ensure milking machines are in good condition.
✔ Milk cows in a stress-free environment.

🔹 3. Detect Problems Early
✔ Regularly check for signs of mastitis (e.g., abnormal milk, swollen udders).
✔ Monitor somatic cell counts in milk to identify infections before symptoms appear.

🔹 4. Provide Proper Nutrition
✔ Feed cows a well-balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and protein.
✔ Ensure adequate hydration and energy intake, especially for high-yielding cows.

🔹 5. Improve Cow Comfort
✔ Provide soft, clean bedding to prevent udder injuries.
✔ Avoid overcrowding to reduce stress and bacterial exposure.

🔹 6. Post-Milking Care
✔ Dip teats in disinfectant after milking to block bacteria.
✔ Consider using post-milking teat sealants for added protection.

🔹 7. Vaccination
✔ Some vaccines help protect against specific bacteria like E. coli and Streptococcus agalactiae.

🔹 8. Culling Chronic Cases
✔ Remove cows that repeatedly suffer from mastitis to prevent spreading infections.

📢 Final Thoughts

Mastitis can be prevented with proper management, hygiene, and nutrition. Healthy cows mean better milk production and higher farm profitability. Stay proactive, and your herd will thrive!

💬 Have you experienced mastitis issues in your dairy farm? Drop a comment below and let’s discuss solutions! ⬇⬇

Uterine Prolapse in Goats: Causes, Symptoms, and Prevention

Uterine prolapse is a serious reproductive issue in goats, particularly in does during or after kidding. It happens when the uterus pushes out through the v***a, causing pain and possible life-threatening complications. Understanding its causes, symptoms, and treatment is key to ensuring your goats’ health and productivity.

Causes of Uterine Prolapse

Several factors increase the risk of uterine prolapse in goats:

✔ Prolonged labor – Excessive straining during a difficult birth.
✔ Large fetuses – Overly large kids can stretch and weaken the reproductive tract.
✔ Weak pelvic muscles – Some does have weaker muscles, making them more prone to prolapse.
✔ Nutritional deficiencies – Lack of proper protein and energy weakens the uterus.
✔ Genetic predisposition – Certain breeds may be more susceptible.

Symptoms to Watch For

🔴 A visible mass of the uterus outside the v***a.
🔴 Straining and discomfort while urinating or moving.
🔴 Bloody or pus-like discharge from the v***a.
🔴 Lethargy and loss of appetite in the affected doe.

What to Do if Your Goat Has Uterine Prolapse

⚠ Seek immediate veterinary help. The faster it’s treated, the better the outcome.

✅ Manual replacement – A vet can carefully push the uterus back in place.
✅ Suturing – In severe cases, temporary stitches may be needed to prevent recurrence.
✅ Antibiotics – Helps prevent infections after the procedure.
✅ Pain relief and supportive care – Proper hydration, feeding, and rest speed up recovery.

How to Prevent Uterine Prolapse

✔ Proper Nutrition – Feed balanced diets rich in protein and minerals.
✔ Breeding Selection – Avoid breeding does with a history of prolapse.
✔ Kidding Management – Monitor does during labor and assist when necessary.
✔ Regular Vet Checks – Early detection of health issues can prevent complications.

📝 Final Thoughts
Uterine prolapse can be prevented and managed with proper care and attention. Investing in good nutrition, breeding practices, and veterinary care ensures a healthy and productive goat herd.

🔄 Share this post to help other farmers keep their goats healthy! 🐐💪

🛑 Brucellosis Can Be Prevented – Here’s How! 🛑

Brucellosis is serious, but YOU can protect yourself and your animals! ✅

✔️ Boil or pasteurize milk before drinking 🥛
✔️ Wear gloves when handling animals 🧤
✔️ Cook meat properly before eating 🍖
✔️ Vaccinate livestock against brucellosis 💉
✔️ Keep animal shelters clean 🏠

Brucellosis is preventable! Let’s work together to keep our farms, families, and food safe. 🛑

📢 Tag a farmer, vet, or food handler & spread awareness!

⚠️ Who is at Risk of Brucellosis? & Signs to Watch For! ⚠️

Brucellosis affects farmers, veterinarians, butchers, and anyone who drinks raw milk! 🥛🚜🔪

🚨 Watch out for these symptoms:
🌡️ Fever that comes and goes
😓 Night sweats & chills
🦵 Joint & muscle pain
😴 Weakness & extreme tiredness

🐄 In animals: Miscarriages, weak newborns, swollen joints & reduced milk production!

Brucellosis can last for months if untreated—Stay informed, stay protected!

🛑 Brucellosis: A Hidden Threat to Humans and Animals! 🛑

Did you know that brucellosis is a disease that affects both livestock and humans? It spreads through raw milk, infected animals, and poor handling practices—putting farmers, veterinarians, and meat workers at risk!

📌 Stay tuned as we break down what brucellosis is, how it spreads, and how you can protect yourself and your animals over the next few days!

👉 Like, share, and tag a farmer! Let’s spread awareness and keep our communities safe.