AN ASSESMENT OF HIGH SLAUGHTER OF SMALL RUMINANT AT EARLY SET OF RAINING SEASON IN KIBIYA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, KANO STATE

Abstract

This study was conducted in Kibiya Local Government Area to assess the incidence of high slaughter of small ruminant on moribund stage especially during the early set of rainfall. Data were gathered from 100 livestock‘s farmers, 54 Butchers and 45 veterinary personnel through the use of structured questionnaires and visual inspection record. Majority of livestock respondents were males (92%) and married (52%) with age range of 40-60 years (67%). About 48% of the respondents were keeping animals 0-5 years, with 50% mixed flock of sheep and goats; 35% goats only and 15% sheep only. The breeds kept were Red Sokoto goats (49%) and Yankasa sheep (50%). Extensive system of management was more popular and practiced (51%). The slaughter of small ruminant on moribundity/already slaughtered was more frequent (66%) and increased during raining season (June). the number of goats slaughtered (499) were twice the number of sheep (250) slaughtered, thus indicated that goats were more frequently slaughtered during the season. Among the reasons for slaughtered were either for lack of feedstuff, urgent need or selling at will. While others were slaughtered as a result of diseases and health related issues. Mostly postmortem was not done on slaughtered animals, thus is a potential health risk to meat consumers in the area of study. Therefore, farmers are advised to preserve crop residues that can be fed at late dry season; regular postmortem and meat inspection should be performed. It is recommended that appropriate extension services, government, livestock scientists and veterinary workers be put in place the awareness of economic benefits of small ruminant production and meat hygiene for safety of consumers.