(a). State six ways in which diseases could be controlled in sheep production.
(b). Give three ways in which decreased feed intake of the flock of sheep could be improved.
(c). Explain each of the following methods of animal improvement. i. introduction; ii. selection; iii. breeding
(d). State five aims of animal improvement
Explanation
(a) Ways of controlling diseases in sheep production -Isolation of affected sheep. - Treatment of affected sheep. - Follow the required vaccination regimes regularly. -Quarantine new stocks before they are introduced on the farm. - Ensure proper sanitary/hygienic conditions on the farm. -Ensure proper biosecurity/provision of footbath. -Avoid the flock straying away from the farm or mixing up with the flock from other farms. -Avoid stray animals on the farm. – Restrict a number of visitors on the farm. -Dispose of dead animals/carcasses properly. - Avoid overcrowding in pens. - Provide clean and adequate water regularly. - Discard leftover/ contaminated feed properly. - Provide good housing. - Proper feeding. -Discard leftover water properly.
(b). Ways of improvising decreased feed intake of the flock sheep. - Provision of a balanced diet. - Regular disease control. -Regular pest control. - Provision of clean and adequate water. - Provide acceptable feed (feedstuff). Supply of salt/mineral needs. Controlled stocking. - Adequate sanitation. - Use of feed additives. Ensure adequate ventilation. - Increase vitamin content in the diet/water. -Allow enough space for exercise. -Deworming. -Offer varieties of feed.
(c). Explanation of method of Animal Improvement i. Introduction: This involves bringing breeds of animals with superior and desirable characters (traits) from another farm into the farmer's farm. ii. Selection: This involves the deliberate choosing of animals with superior traits from a mixed population, for breeding. iii. Breeding: Breeding involves the transfer of desirable traits to offspring through mating of animals or other breeding methods.
(d). Aims of animal improvement - High reproductive efficiency. productivity/high yield.- Good mothering ability. - Cool temperament/ ease of handling. – High libido. - Resistance to pests. - Resistance to diseases. - High adaptability/adaptation to harsh environmental conditions. Improved quality of produce, - Improved growth rate, and early maturity. - Produce animals with high feed conversion efficiency