1. ABSTRACTS OF RESEARCH ON ANIMAL
HEALTH, WELFARE AND PRODUCTION
VOLUME IV
COLLEGE OF VETERINARY MEDICINE
MEKELLE UNIVERSITY
May, 2012
MEKELLE, ETHIOPIA

2. PREFACE
The College of Veterinary Medicine of Mekelle University has compiled the
abstracts of research done by DVM graduates. This book of abstracts is the
fourth volume and includes researches conducted in 2007/08. The purpose of
this abstract compilation is to nurture the culture of publication and to share
the findings of research undertakings among the staff members, students,
and other stake holders. In addition, such type of publication as monograph
serves as a data base to be easily accessible for the beneficiaries.
The coordinator would like to acknowledge the contribution of the abstracts
from the staff, students and staff members of College of Veterinary Medi-
cine.
For further information contact Dr. Fisseha Kassahun, research publication
and dissemination coordinator, P.O.Box: 3024, Mekelle, Ethiopia, Email:
fishomarshet@gmail.com.
Dr. Fisseha Kassahun
The coordinator
2

3. CONTENTS
PAGE
STUDY ON PREVALENCE AND ECONOMIC SIGNIFICANCE OF CYSTIC
HYDATIDOSIS IN OVINE SLAUGHTERED AT ABERGELE EXPORT ABATTOIR . 6
Million Berhane, Dr. Habtamu Taddele
STUDY ON PREVALENCE AND RISK FACTORS OF BOVINE MASTITIS IN
BORANA PASTORAL AND AGRO PASTORAL AREAS, YABELLO DISTRICT,
BORANA ZONE, SOUTHERN ETHIOPIA ..................................................................... 7
Kasim Guyo, Dr. Yohannis Tekle, Dr. Habtamu Taddle
HEALTH AND WELFARE ASSESSMENT OF WORKING DONKEYS IN HINTALO
WEJJRAT DISTRICT, SOUTH TIGRAY, ETHIOPIA ...................................................... 8
Kiros Abraha, Dr. Awot Teklu, Dr. Hagos Yihdego
PREVALENCE AND IDENTIFICATION OF PREDOMINANT CAUSATIVE AGENTS
OF BOVINE MASTITIS IN BOKE DISTRICT OF WESTERN HARAGHE ZONE ...... 9
Endeshaw Zerfu, Dr. Habtamu Tassew, Dr. Yohannes Hagos
INCIDENCE OF DYSTOCIA IN BOVINE IN AND AROUND MEKELLE ................ 10
Berhe Hadera, Dr. Abraha,Tadelle, Dr.Gebregwergs Asebir
A STUDY ONTHE PREVALENCE OF METALIC AND NON METALIC FOREIGN
BODIES IN THE STOMACH OF LARGE RUMINANTS SLAUGHTERED AT
MEKELLE MUNICIPALITY ABATTOIR .......................................................................11
Tedros Tsige, Dr. Gebrehiwot Tadesse
CATTLE SLAUGHTERED AT DEBERE MARKOS MUNICIPAL ABATTOIR,
AMHARA REGIONAL ESTATE, ETHIOPIA ................................................................ 12
Gemberu Gebril, Dr. Habtamu Tassew, Dr. Yohannes Hagos
prevalence and economic importance of hydatidosis in cattle slaughtered at abergelle
export slaughter house ...................................................................................................... 13
Tsgab Alem, Dr. Yohannes Tekle
STUDY ON MAJOR REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH PROBLEMS OF DAIRY CATTLE
AT MEKELLE .................................................................................................................. 14
Motuma Regassa, Dr. Berhan Mengiste,Dr. Guesh Negash
prevalence of OVINE haemonchosis in and around bahir dar, eTHIOPIA ...................... 15
Zelalem Semahegn, Dr. Biruk Mekonnen, Dr. Yohannes Hagos
ASSESSEMENT OF MAJOR HEALTH PROBLEMS OF DOGS IN MEKELLE
VETERINARY CLINIC ................................................................................................... 16
Gebretsadik Atsbaha, Dr. Daniel Hussien
STUDY ON THE PREVALENCE OF BOVINE DERMATOPHILOSIS IN MEKELLE

4. AND KUYHA VETERINARY CLINIC .......................................................................... 17
Kassahun Asnake, Dr. Guesh Negash
STUDY ON THE PREVALENCE OF BOVINE TRYPONOSOMOSIS IN DARAMALO
DISTRICT, GAMU GOFA ZONE, SOUTH NATIONS, NATIONALITIES AND
PEOPELS REGION, ETHIOPIA ..................................................................................... 18
Teketel Achiso, Dr. Habtamu Tassew
HEALTH AND WELFARE ASSESSMENT OF WORKING DONKEYS AT ENDERTA
DISTRICT......................................................................................................................... 19
Saron Redae, Dr. Berhan Mengiste
STUDY ON THE PREVALENCE AND MAJOR CAUSES OF LAMENESS IN
WORKING HORSES IN AND AROUND MEKELLE CITY ........................................ 20
Mohammednur Mohammed, Dr. Yohannes Hagos
IN VITRO ANTIBACTERIAL SCREENING OF EXTRACTS FROM SELECTED
ETHIOPIAN MEDICINAL PLANTS .............................................................................. 21
Fetene Moges, Dr. Berhan Mengiste, Dr. Yohannes Hagos
PREVALENCE OF POULTRY COCCIDIOSIS IN AND AROUND BAHIR DAR ....... 22
Tegbar Getnet, dr. Tehetena Alemayhu, dr. Yohannes Hagos
A CORSS SECTIONAL STUDY ON BOVINE FASCIOLOSIS IN WOLAITA SODDO
MUNICIPAL ABATTOIR ................................................................................................ 23
Tsedeke Maregu, Dr. YisehakTsegaye
ANTIBIOTIC SENSITIVITY PATTERN OF STAPHYLOCOCCUS AUREUS AND
ESCHERICHIA COLI ....................................................................................................... 24
Tamirat Zelalem, Dr. Berhan Mengiste, Dr. Habtamu Tassew
PREVALENCE OF GASTRO INTESTINAL NEMATODE IN CART HORSES IN AND
AROUND KOMBOLCHA ............................................................................................... 25
Samuel Worku, Dr. Berihun Afera
ISOLATION OF BACTERIAL CONTAMINANTS FROM LESSIONS OF EQUINE
HISTOPLASMOSIS IN MEKELLE, NORTHERN ETHIOPIA ..................................... 26
Dinku Biratu, Dr. Birhanu Hadush, Dr. Habtamu Taddele
MAJOR PARASITIC CAUSES OF ORGAN CONDEMNATION IN APPARENTLLY
HEALTHY CATTLE SLAUGHTERED IN ABERGELLE MODERN EXPORT
ABATTOIR, MEKELLE. ................................................................................................. 27
Kflemaryam Tadesse, Dr. Netsanet Berhe
CHIEF CONSTRAINTS IN THE SUCCESS OF ARTIFICIAL INSEMINATION
PROGRAME IN AND AROUND MEKELLE ................................................................ 28
Getachew Abadi
AGE PROFILE AND DENTAL DISORDERS OF DONKEYS IN TWO SELECTED
WORKING SITES OF TIGRAY DONKEY HEALTH AND WELFARE PROJECT..... 29
4

5. Fikreslasie Dawit
STUDY ON THE PREVALENCE OF BOVINE MASTITIS IN AND AROUND BAHIR
DAR DAIRY FARMS BAHIRDAR, ETHIOPIA ............................................................ 30
Muhammed Suleman Dr. Gebreiwot Taddesse, Dr. Yohannes Hagos
PREVALENCE OF BOVINE FASCIOLOSIS IN BAHIR DAR MUNICIPAL
ABATTOIR ....................................................................................................................... 31
Habtamu Terefe
STUDY ON PREVALENCE OF LUNG WORM INFECTION IN SHEEP
SLAUTHERED AT ABERGELE EXPORT ABATTOIR ................................................ 32
Fiseha Kidanu, Dr. Yohannes Hagos
PREVALENCE AND IDENTIFICATION OF HARD TICKS (IXODIDES) ON BOVINE
IN SHASHEMENE VETERINARY CLINIC .................................................................. 33
Mohammed Siraj, Dr. Nesibu Awol, Dr. Birhanu Hadush
EVALUATION OF THE REPRODUCTIVE PERFORMANCE OF CROSSBRED
DAIRY CATTLE IN KALLAMINO DAIRY FARM, MEKELLE .................................. 34
Tsegay Haftu, Dr. Theodros Tekle
STATUS OF ARTIFICIAL INSEMINATION SERVICE AT FIELD LEVEL IN
EASTERN ZONE OF TIGRAY ....................................................................................... 35
Hagos Asgele, Dr. Gebregiorgis Ashebir
STUDY ON SERO-PREVALENCE OF BOVINE AND HUMAN BRUCELLOSIS IN
AND AROUND ASELLE, EASTERN ARSI ZONE, OROMIA REGIONAL STATE OF
ETHIOPIA ........................................................................................................................ 36
Abdulazim Usman Kimo, Dr. Yohannes Hagos
5

6. STUDY ON PREVALENCE AND ECONOMIC SIGNIFICANCE OF CYSTIC
HYDATIDOSIS IN OVINE SLAUGHTERED AT ABERGELE EXPORT
ABATTOIR
Million Berhane, Dr. Habtamu Taddele
ABSTRACT
A cross-sectional study was conducted from December 2010 to April 2011 to estimate the
prevalence of hydatidosis in ovine slaughtered at Abergele export abattoir. An attempt
was also made to estimate the annual economic loss associated with echinococcosis due
to condemnation of organs during meat inspection. A total of 833 ovine were inspected
following slaughter. Hydatidosis was prevalent in 22.2% (185/833) of ovine inspected
during the study period. The infection rate of lung and liver were found to be 44.3% and
33%, respectively. Among the risk factors, the origin of animals (χ2=49.24, p=0.000) and
body condition scoring (χ2=20.77, p=0.002) showed significant association with the
occurrence of hydatid cysts; animals coming from Mekelle and its surroundings showed
higher prevalence of hydatid cysts (36.3%) compared to animals originating from Shire
site which showed a prevalence of 9.8%. Similarly, animals with thin body condition
showed higher occurrence of hydatid cysts (26.2%) compared to animals with fat/good
body condition (17.8%). However, there was no significant association between age
(χ2=4.15, p=0.246) of animals and occurrence of hydatid cyst. From a total of 94
randomly collected cysts 27 (28.7%) were sterile, 48 (51%) were fertile, (70.1% viable
and 29.9% non-viable) and 19 (20.2%) were calcified. From the collected cyst rate of
calcification was higher in the liver than in the lung while fertility rate was higher in cysts
recovered from lung. The total annual economic loss due to hydatidosis in sheep
slaughtered at Abergele export abattoir was estimated to be 26, 224, 338.52 ETB (1, 548,
986.32 USD). The current results suggest that ovine hydatidosis is considered to be
among the major parasitic diseases in the study area with significant economic losses that
requires an immediate measure to reduce its economic and public health impacts.
Key words: Abattoir: Abergelle; Export; Echonococcosis; Mekelle; Prevalence; Sheep
6

7. STUDY ON PREVALENCE AND RISK FACTORS OF BOVINE MASTITIS IN
BORANA PASTORAL AND AGRO PASTORAL AREAS, YABELLO DISTRICT,
BORANA ZONE, SOUTHERN ETHIOPIA
Kasim Guyo, Dr. Yohannis Tekle, Dr. Habtamu Taddle
ABSTRACT
The study was conducted in from November 2010 to April 2011 to determine prevalence
of bovine mastitis, to isolate predominant bacteria responsible for causing mastitis and to
assess potential risk factors associated with the disease. A total of 460 lactating Boran
breed cows from both pastoral and agro pastoral areas were included in the study.
California Mastitis test, Clinical examination of udder and teats and bacteriological
examination were employed during the study period. The overall prevalence of mastitis at
cow level was 59.13% (272), from which 21.09% (97) and 38.04% (175) were clinical
and subclinical, respectively. The quarters level prevalence of the disease was also 38.7%
(712) from which 246 (13.7%) and 466 (25.3%) were clinical and subclinical form,
respectively. Among the cause of bovine mastitis in the study area staphylococcus
species, streptococcus species and E.coli were leading infectious causes with relative
percentage of 29.21%, 22.47%and 11.38%, respectively. Among Potential risk factors;
Age (x2=21.43, p<0.05) and Parity (x2=18.15, p<0.05) showed significance effect, while
stage of lactation (x2=10.54, p>0.05) has no significance effect on prevalence of mastitis
in the present study. Thus high prevalence was observed in the cows older than 10 years
and cows with >7 calves. In general management practices, hygiene of dairy environment
in all studied pastoral association were very poor. Adequate sanitation of dairy
environment, proper attention to health of mammary gland, regular screening tests and
awareness of the people of the area about the disease should get emphases as control
strategies.
Key words: Boran breed; Mastitis; Pastoral; prevalence; Risk factors
7

8. HEALTH AND WELFARE ASSESSMENT OF WORKING DONKEYS IN
HINTALO WEJJRAT DISTRICT, SOUTH TIGRAY, ETHIOPIA
Kiros Abraha, Dr. Awot Teklu, Dr. Hagos Yihdego
ABSTRACT
A cross-sectional type of study was conducted from November 2010 to May 2011with the
objective of assessing on the general health problems and welfare concerns of working
donkeys in peasant associations of the study area, Hintalo Wejirat. During the study
period, a total of 384 donkeys were checked for the welfare concerned general health
problems and behavioral responses. Both direct (animal related) and indirect (owners
group-focused discussions) assessment methods were used for the study. Out of the
totally sampled 384 donkeys 62.3% were found to be with a general health problems of
which skin accounts for 42.12%, parasites 33.33%, and 14.06% for the visible mucus
membrane and a least value for musculo-skeletal problems (13.02%). The results
obtained also show that donkeys of 6-7 years old are highly predisposed to many of the
health problems (7.03%), followed by 2.08%, 1.04% and 0.78%. The older donkeys were
relatively resistant to adverse health problems. Most of the health problems were found to
be highly prevalent in donkeys with moderate body condition scores (6.5%), followed by
3.41% for greater than moderate, and 3.65% for less than moderate. Donkeys with body
condition score of nine (very fat) were found to be relatively resistant or unaffected with
majority of the health problems encountered. Of the assessed behavioral responses 4.2%
of the donkeys were found to be hypersthatic, 22.6% depressed and 24.2% 0f them does
not respond when walk beside. Results of the indirect assessment through a point focus
discussion revealed out of the totally questioned people 25% said that most of the
questioned criteria (death, scale, severity or pain and out of use) are due to different
diseases, 23% due to attitude, 21.5% due to wounds and harness, 8.5% due to shelter
related problems, 7.5% due to external parasites and 15% of them said that the mentioned
problems are due to hyena bites. Only 0.5% said due to other causes.
Key words: cross-sectional, donkeys, welfare, health problems, behavior
8

9. PREVALENCE AND IDENTIFICATION OF PREDOMINANT CAUSATIVE
AGENTS OF BOVINE MASTITIS IN BOKE DISTRICT OF WESTERN
HARAGHE ZONE
Endeshaw Zerfu, Dr Habtamu Tassew, Dr Yohannes Hagos
ABSTRACT
A cross sectional study was carried out from November 2010 to April 2011 in Boke
District of Western Harerghe zone to determine the prevalence and isolate the majoar
bacterial agents that involved in bovine mastitis. The study was conducted on 384 local
zebu lactating cows which were examined through clinical examination, CMT test and
microbiological examination. From the 1536 quarters of 384 cows examined, 98(25.5%)
were positive on CMT bases for mastitis at cows level and 157(10.2%) at quarters level.
Out of these, 80 (20.8%) subclinical and 18(4.7%) clinical at cow level were infected.
whereas127 (8.3%) subclinical and 30(2%) clinical at quarters level. Six (1.6%) and
twelve (3.1%) were acute and chronic in cow level and 9(.6%) and 21(1.4%) were acute
and chronic in quarter level respectively. Out of CMT positive animals, 80(20.8%) in cow
level and 108(7%) in quarter level were cultured and positive for mastitis causal agents.
The 1480 (96.4) quarters were functional and the rest 56(3.6%) were blind. 26(7%),
9(2.3%) and 4(1%) animals had single, double and three blind teats respectively. From
CMT positive cases, 108 pathogens were isolated. The most prevalent bacterial
organisms isolated were Staphylococcus species (19%) following by Streptococcus
species (18%) and Enterobacteriacae (16%).The predominant bacterial species from the
isolated (Staphylococcus aureus, E. coli, Streptococcus agalactiae) were the highest
number of isolates. Risk factors analysis revealed that the age (p<0.05), parity (p<0.05)
and udder hygiene condition (p<0.05) were highly significant for the prevalence of
mastitis. Therefore, treating clinically infected cows, regular screening for early
detection, protecting hygienic condition, animal health service and giving attention to
health of the mammary gland were important in reducing the prevalence of mastitis in the
study area.
Key words: Bovine; isolation; mastitis; prevalence; quarter
9

10. INCIDENCE OF DYSTOCIA IN BOVINE IN AND AROUND MEKELLE
Berhe Hadera, Dr. Abraha,Tadelle, Dr. Gebregwergs Asebir
ABSTRACT
The study was conducted from November 25/2010 to April 15/2011, with the main
objective of investigating incidence of dystocia in bovines, observational study was
conducted on 313 at risk calving cows and heifers and questionnaire study was conducted
during the same time. According to the observational study, 23 calves out of 313 calves
born after dystocia. And overall incidence of dystocia found to be 7.3%.From the total 23
calving with dystocia 2.23% were with major difficulty while 5.22% were easy. There
was significant difference between parity groups (p=0.047). There were 16.98%, 10.12%,
4.61% and 2.58% in first, second, third and fourth and above forth, respectively.
Incidence of dystocia was higher in large size calves than in medium and small. This
factor was highly significant (p=0.001). And the incidence was19.23%, 6.76% and3.11%
in large, medium and small size calves respectively. In terms of sex the incidence of
dystocia was 8.63%, 6.32% in male and female, respectively. In relation to breed the
incidence of dystocia was 7.57%, 6.95% in cross and local breeds respectively. In relation
to body condition of the cow the incidence of dystocia was 9%, 6.99% and 5.7% in good,
average and poor body condition, respectively. Forty three percent of the dystocia was
caused abnormal posture and 17.39%, 26.09% were caused by insufficiency of expulsive
force and feto-maternal disproportion, respectively. The rest 13.04% was caused due to
combination of the causes. In relation to season dystocia was relatively higher in summer
than in winter, autumn and spring which was 12.5%, 5%, %, 8% and 9.52%, respectively
according to the questionnaire survey. The major economic loss was due to still birth and
early calf mortality. According to the questionnaire survey out of 17 calves born after
dystocia 2 of them born as still birth and 3 of them died early before weaned and this
account 11.75% and 17.64% from the total calves after dustocia.
Key words: dystocia, parity, fetomaternal disproportion, abnormal posture
10

11. A STUDY ONTHE PREVALENCE OF METALIC AND NON METALIC
FOREIGN BODIES IN THE STOMACH OF LARGE RUMINANTS
SLAUGHTERED AT MEKELLE MUNICIPALITY ABATTOIR
Tedros Tsige, Dr. Gebrehiwot Tadesse
ABSTRACT
A cross-sectional study was undertaken to evaluate the prevalence of metallic and non-
metallic foreign bodies found in the stomach of large ruminants slaughtered at Mekelle
municipality abattoir from November 2010 to March 2011. Age of the animals was
determined on the basis of dental erruption. The reticulorumen and other associated
organs (diaphragm, heart and liver) of 633 slaughtered animals were carefully examined
for the presence of any indigestible foreign body. Statistical analysis showed that the
prevalence of indigestible foreign bodies was 94% (n=595). The studied animals included
oxen (n=631) 99.7% and cows (n=2) 0.3%. Plastics were the most frequently retrieved
foreign bodies (44%). Others included: ropes (11.3%), leather (6.6%), rocks (7.4%), hair
balls (6.9%), cloth pieces (0.8%), metals (9.2%) and miscellaneous objects (13.8%).
There was a significant association between age and the occurrence of rumen foreign
bodies (p<0.05), weight of foreign body and body condition score (p<0.05). However,
there were insignificant associations between sex and the occurrence of rumen foreign
bodies (p>0.05). The prevalence was generally high in older animals. The weight of the
foreign bodies was completely dependent on the age of the animals as the size of the
recovered foreign bodies was comparatively big in older animals. The size of the foreign
body had significant effect on the body condition score of the animal. The weight of the
foreign body was heavier in large ruminants with thin and emaciated body condition. It
can be concluded that the high prevalence of foreign bodies in large ruminants is most
probably the result of food scarcity due to drought that led to starvation, pica and
subsequent ingestion of foreign bodies, careless spread and disposal of plastics and other
materials in pasture, extensive management system of the animals and the indiscriminate
eating habit of bovines contributed to the high prevalence.
Key words: Abattoir; foreign body; Mekelle; reticulorumen
11

12. CATTLE SLAUGHTERED AT DEBERE MARKOS MUNICIPAL ABATTOIR,
AMHARA REGIONAL ESTATE, ETHIOPIA
Gemberu Gebril, Dr. Habtamu Tassew, Dr. Yohannes Hagos
ABSTRACT
A cross-sectional survey on bovine hydatidosis was carried out on local zebu cattle
slaughtered at Debre Markos Municipal Abattoir from November 2010 to April 2011 to
determine the prevalence and economic losses. Out of the total 465 cattle examined, 193
(41.5%) were found to harbor hydatid cysts. The study showed a high prevalence rate
(41.5%) and significant estimated economic losses in the area. The prevalence was
slightly higher in cattle having poor body condition (50%) followed by medium (40.29%)
and good (36.17%). There was relatively insignificant association (p=0.286, χ2=8.558)
between different age groups with regard to cyst detection even though a bit higher
prevalence has been indicated in older (41.97%) than younger (34.48%) zebu cattle.
From the total of 193 infected animals, 79 (41%) had hydatid cysts found only in the
lung, 38 (19.7%) in the liver, and the rest 76 (39.3%) had multiple anatomical
distribution. Of the 275 viscera examined, the highest number of hydatid cysts (56.4%)
was found on lung followed by liver (41.4%), spleen (1.1%), kidney (0.7%) and heart
(0.4%). On the basis of cyst fertility and viability tests on 500 cysts, 128 (25.6%) were
fertile, 205 (41%) sterile and 167 (33.4%) calcified whereas from all fertile cysts
subjected for viability test, 73 (57%) were viable. This study considerably revealed high
annual economic losses (574463.22 ETB) due to organ condemnation and carcass weight
losses with the highest loss associated with liver condemnation followed by lungs.
Widespread practice of offering dogs with uncooked infected offals, the absence of well-
constructed abattoir and the habit of leaving condemned organs unburied might be the
predominant potential risk factors associated. Therefore, reduction of stray dog
population, creation of public awareness regarding about the disease, and conducting
regular meat inspection services should be exercised as relevant control measures.
Keywords: Abattoir; Debre Markos; economic significance; hydatidosis; prevalence
12

13. PREVALENCE AND ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE OF HYDATIDOSIS IN
CATTLE SLAUGHTERED AT ABERGELLE EXPORT SLAUGHTER HOUSE
Tsgab Alem, Dr. Yohannes Tekle
ABSTRACT
A cross-sectional study was conducted from November 2010 to March 2011 to
investigate prevalence of hydatidosis and its associated economic losses. This study has
been carried out based on the Ante- mortem and post mortem examination. Among total
of 1048 slaughtered cattle examined, 224 (21.4 %) were found positive for hydatidosis
which harbor the cyst in different visceral organs (lung, heart, liver and kidney). The
overall high prevalence in this study was found due to poor husbandry system, absence of
awareness among the public about zoonotic importance of the disease, contamination of
pasture with dogs feces, unhygienic disposal of condemned organs, presence of stray
dogs, close relationship between cattle, dog and man, lack of cooperation between the
veterinary and public health professionals. Out of 687 cysts detected, 479 (69.72%) were
counted from lung, 18 (2.62%) were from heart, 186 (27.07%) from liver and 4 (0.58%)
from kidney. In this study among these cysts from different organs 103 (32.19%), 163
(50.93%) and 54 (16.88 %) were found fertile, sterile and calcified respectively. However
lung was highly affected than others. In addition, there was statistical significant
difference (p<0.05) on the prevalence of hydatidosis between cattle in different body
condition with higher prevalence in poor body condition (78.1%) than their counter parts
(5.1%).More ever, no significant variation was observed with regard to age and origin of
animals. Overall economic loss due to organ condemnation and carcass weight loss was
approximately 34710.2044USD.
Key words: Hydatid cyst, slaughter cattle, prevalence, echinococcus.
13

14. STUDY ON MAJOR REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH PROBLEMS OF DAIRY
CATTLE AT MEKELLE
Motuma Regassa, Dr. Berhan Mengiste, Dr. Guesh Negash
ABSTRACT
Study was conducted from December 2010 to April 2011 at Mekelle Veterinary Clinic
with objective to assess the incidence of various reproductive disorders, identify the
major reproductive disorders of dairy cows in study area and to suggest suitable remedial
measures to the farmers. This study was under taken by applying questionnaire survey;
data was collected from case book of clinics and examination of reproductive tract. Out
of 239 cows that have reproductive disorders, 29.7%, 18.8%, 17.2%, 12.1%, 8.8%, 5.4%,
4.6% and 3.3% were found to have repeat breeder, RFM, abortion, anoestrus, dystocia,
uterine prolapsed, metritis and vagina prolapsed, respectively. According to this study the
effect of age (p=0.423) and parity (p=0.742) on reproductive disorders were not
statistically significant. On the other hand breed and service (p<0.05) have significant
effect on the reproductive disorders of the dairy cows. Possible risk factors responsible
for the occurrence of reproductive health problems were identified and included as age,
parity, breed and type of service. Improvements in management systems (such as
housing, feeding and health care), heat detection and proper selection of bulls for
breeding could help in minimizing reproductive health problems and improve the
reproductive efficiency of small holder dairy cows.
Key words: Reproductive disorders; dairy cows; breed; artificial insemination.
14

15. PREVALENCE OF OVINE HAEMONCHOSIS IN AND AROUND BAHIR DAR,
ETHIOPIA
Zelalem Semahegn, Dr. Biruk Mekonnen, Dr. Yohannes Hagos
ABSTRACT
A study was carried out to estimate the prevalence of haemonchosis in sheep slaughtered
in three different hotels of Bahir Dar town from November, 2010 to March, 2011. During
the study period, 397 abomasums of sheep, 163 females and 234 males, were examined
according to the standard procedures. The haemonchus species were identified in sheep
abomasums with an overall prevalence of 45.8%. The prevalence was compared with age,
sex, body condition and origin of the sheep. There was no statistically significant
difference (p>0.05) observed among the risk factors of sex and origin; however, there
was statistically significant difference (p<.005) noticed among months, ages and body
conditions of the sheep in relation to the prevalence of haemonchus species. The results
revealed that the infection was significantly higher in wet season (November) compared
to dry season (March) and lower prevalence was observed in young than adult groups. It
was concluded that the epidemiological evidence of the present investigation showed that
haemonchosis is considerably prevalent disease of sheep in the study area. Hence, it
demands further studies on epidemiology particularly molecular one, and the economic
significance of haemonchus species. Moreover, economically acceptable control
measures are recommended in the study area.
Key words: Bahir Dar; haemonchus; prevalence; sheep
15

16. ASSESSEMENT OF MAJOR HEALTH PROBLEMS OF DOGS IN MEKELLE
VETERINARY CLINIC
Gebretsadik Atsbaha, Dr. Daniel Hussien
ABSTRACT
A cross sectional study was conducted from November 2010 to April 2011 in Mekelle
Veterinary Clinic to assess major health problems of dogs and to determine the associated
risk factors. A total of 109 dogs were examined based on history and clinical signs. Chi-
Square statistics and comparison of proportions were used to analyze the data. Out of the
total 109 dogs examined, 42 (38.5%), 36 (33.00%), 15 (13.8%) and 16 (14.7%) had skin,
respiratory and injury problems, respectively. Of 42 dogs that had skin problems, 25
(59.5%) were lice and flea infested and 17 (40.5%) were mange mite infested. From 36
dogs that had gastrointestinal tract problems, 21 (58.30%) showed diarrhea and 15
(41.70%) were with vomiting. Out of the 16 injured dogs, 11 (68.75%) were dogs biting
wounds and 5 (31.25%) were car accident, abrasion, and bad management inflicted
injuries. All 15 dogs that came with respiratory tract infection showed various degree of
coughing. The occurrence of the disease conditions did not show any statistical
significant difference between male and female (χ2=0.54; p=0.9). Moreover, the
difference in occurrence of health problems between the local and exotic breeds of dog
was not found to be statistically significant (χ2=7.5; p=0.05). Nevertheless, the difference
in occurrence of major health problems among various age categories was statistically
significance (χ2=19.8; p=0.019). It is recommended that pet owners should care more for
their pets by proper housing, feeding, and prevention of contamination of public places
by dog feces and regular deworming of dogs.
Key words: Dogs, health problems, mekelle veterinary clinic
16

17. STUDY ON THE PREVALENCE OF BOVINE DERMATOPHILOSIS IN
MEKELLE AND KUYHA VETERINARY CLINIC
Kassahun Asnake, Dr. Guesh Negash
ABSTRACT
A survey of bovine Dermatophilosis on 1250 cattle were carried out from November
2010 to April 2011 in Mekelle and Quiha in different areas of veterinary clinics.
Accordingly, 192 cross breed and 1158 local zebu breed were examined in the clinics,
and a total of 35(2.8%) were found positive for the disease with prevalence rate of 10
(5.21%) and 25 (2.16%), respectively. Clinical examination was made and skin scrapping
from suspected cases was examined for Dermatophilus congolense using Giemsa staining
technique. The influencing factors in the establishment and transmission of the disease
are indicated and the extent of the disease was compared and analyzed in relation to
breed, sex, age, working site, severity of skin lesion, tick infestation and seasonal
occurrence. In this study the significant difference (p<0.05) were seen in different breeds,
age groups, tick infestation and seasonal occurrence but the rest were insignificant
(p>0.05). Finally possible solutions to control the disease and to decrease the risk factors
were recommended.
Key words: Bovine; Dermatophilosis; Giemsa; Prevalence; Mekelle
17

18. STUDY ON THE PREVALENCE OF BOVINE TRYPONOSOMOSIS IN
DARAMALO DISTRICT, GAMU GOFA ZONE, SOUTH NATIONS,
NATIONALITIES AND PEOPELS REGION, ETHIOPIA
Teketel Achiso, Dr. Habtamu Tassew
ABSTRACT
A cross sectional study was conducted from November, 2010 to April, 2011 in Daramalo
District of Gamu Gofa Zone, South Nations, Nationalities and Peoples’ Region. The
study was carried out on cattle which are selected with systematic random sampling
technique from five peasant associations of the study area to determine the prevalence
and potential risk factors associated with bovine trypanosomosis. Based on sixty
community member interviews, bovine trypanosomosis was found to the primary disease
of cattle in all PAs. Out of 246 blood samples collected from selected cattle for laboratory
examinations, 61 (24.8%) samples were positive. Parasitological examinations revealed
that the infection rate caused by T.congilense (90.2%) being dominant over T. vivax
(6.5%). Mixed infection of the two species (3.3%) was also recorded. Most of the animals
with mean PCV values less than 26% were found positive for trypanosomosis. The mean
PCV values of parasitemic and aparasitemic animals were 21.2% and 26.1%,
respectively. There was statistically significant difference (p=0.000, χ2=23.092) between
PCV values and the prevalence of the disease. There was relatively insignificant
association (p=0.481, χ2=1.463) between different age groups even though a bit higher
prevalence has been indicated in older (27.7%) than younger (26.6%) zebu cattle. The
prevalence was slightly higher in cattle having poor body condition (37.7%) followed by
medium (9.2%) whereas animals in good body condition were found completely free
from the disease. The results of the present study revealed that trypanososomosis was a
major constraint for cattle production in the study area. Therefore, tsetse fly control and
regular strategic prophylactic treatment should be implemented in the study area.
Key words: Bovine; Daramalo District; prevalence; Trypanosomosis
18

19. HEALTH AND WELFARE ASSESSMENT OF WORKING DONKEYS AT
ENDERTA DISTRICT
Saron Redae, Dr. Berhan Mengiste
ABSTRACT
The cross sectional study was conducted from November 2010 to April 2011 with the aim
of assessing health and welfare problems of working donkeys in Enderta district around
Mekelle city. Direct assessment format was employed to obtain the required data. The
wound prevalence of the study area was 61.7%. Donkeys used for fire and charcoal
transport had higher prevalence of wound than those used for water and food transport.
Wound distribution on the donkeys body showed that 49.71%, 32.37%, 9.25%), 8.67%
are wounded at under the tail, point of shoulder and back, girth and other body parts
respectively. In this study, 57%, 37.8% and 5.2% the donkeys had body condition score
of 2, 2-3 and 3, respectively. There was statistically significant difference (p<0.05) in the
body condition score of the donkeys between the two sites. The donkeys used for food
and water transport have good body condition than those used for fire wood and charcoal
transport. The prevalence of external parasite was 78.61%. There was no statistically
significant difference (p>0.05) between the two sites in prevalence of external parasite.
The prevalence of external parasite in relation to body condition score, 219 score 2, 169
donkeys (44%) are positive, 145 score 2-3, 118 donkeys (30.7%) are positive and 20
score3, 15 donkeys (3.9%) are positive. Body condition score did not show statistical
difference by tick infestation (p>0.05). The tick prevalence is high which showed that
there could be serious problem concerning tick infestation in donkeys which is neglected
by owners and also by veterinarians. Finally, donkey owners and veterinarians should
implement appropriate control and preventive strategies of tick infestation of donkeys are
recommended.
Key words: donkey; health; welfare
19

20. STUDY ON THE PREVALENCE AND MAJOR CAUSES OF LAMENESS IN
WORKING HORSES IN AND AROUND MEKELLE CITY
Mohammednur Mohammed, Dr. Yohannes Hagos
ABSTRACT
A study was conducted from November 2010 to April 2011 in four selected sites in and
around Mekelle namely; Quiha, Adigdom, and Wukro to determine the prevalence and
major causes lameness and identify the likely potential risk factors using questioner
survey and clinical examination. A total of 410 working horses were randomly selected
from the four sites of the study area. The overall prevalence of lameness in this study was
found to be 11.5%. The prevalence of lameness was significantly influenced by body
condition (χ2=13.1, p=0.01) and it was higher in poor body condition (19.3%) by
comparing with those having moderate (12.2%) and good body conditions (6.1%),
similarly there was statistically significant difference (χ2=410.0, p=0.000) between the
prevalence and causes of lameness. Injury (67.86%) was found to be the major cause of
the disease, followed by back problem (42.86%), arthritis (40.0%), hoof over growth
(27.78%), epizootic lymphagitis (25.0%), wound (14.29%), nail piercing (18.75%) and
other causes (5.26%). However, no significant difference was observed between sites
(χ2=0.180, p=0.981) with a prevalence rates of 11.6%, 10.5%, 8.6% and 13.5% in
Mekelle, Adigudom, Quiha and Wukro, respectively. In this study grade-2 (38.2%) type
of lameness was found to be with higher prevalence than grade-1 (23.4%), grade-3
(23.4%) and grade-4 (14.8%). Generally, this study showed lameness as a major health
problem of horses and there are different causes of lameness in the study area. So a
comprehensive horse health and welfare promotion program is important to alleviate the
problem.
Key words: Horse, lameness, Mekelle, prevalence
20

21. IN VITRO ANTIBACTERIAL SCREENING OF EXTRACTS FROM SELECTED
ETHIOPIAN MEDICINAL PLANTS
Fetene Moges, Dr. Berhan Mengiste, Dr. Yohannes Hagos
ABSTRACT
The antibacterial activit of four selected Ethiopian medicinal plants was studied. The
whole parts of Verbena officinalis, fruits of Measa lanceolata, arial parts of Cissus
quadrangularis and leaf of Dodonae angustifolia were collected air dried under shed,
powdered and soaked in 80% methanol to be extracted. Invitro antibacterial assay of the
extracts was tested by the method of agar disk diffusion at different concentrations. The
plant extracts have shown broad spectrum activity against gram positive (S. aureus) and
gram negative (E.coli) bacteria, except Cissus quadrangularis which did not show
activity against E.coli. The plant extracts had concentration dependant zone of inhibition
against the tested bacteria. In fact, the highest activity was obtained for V. officinalis at
1000mg/ml against S. aureus. The activities are attributed to the presence of some
secondary metabolites present in the tested plants which have been associated with
antibacterial activities. This finding suggests that there is possibility to isolate potential
antibacterial drugs from these medicinal plants.
Key words: Antibacterial activity; extract; test bacteria
21

22. PREVALENCE OF POULTRY COCCIDIOSIS IN AND AROUND BAHIR DAR
Tegbar Getnet, Dr. Tehetena Alemayhu, Dr. Yohannes Hagos
ABSTRACT
A cross sectional study was conducted in and around Bahir Dar from November 2010 to
April 2011 with the objective of investigating the prevalence of poultry coccidiosis in the
study area on local strain chicken and white leghorn breed chicken that are kept under
free range and deep litter management systems respectively. A total of 409 chickens, 199
local strain chicken and 210 white leghorns were included in the study. Flotation
technique was employed to harvest coccidial oocysts from the sampled chicken. The
result revealed that out of 409 chicken examined during the study period 248 (60.6%)
were found to be positive for coccidial oocysts. Out of these positive cases 69.04 % were
white leghorn whereas 51.7 % were local strain chicken. Moreover, results of coccidiosis
by management system of chicken were assessed and the finding indicated that coccidial
infection in deep litter management system were significantly higher than that free range
system (χ2=12.795; p=0.000). Prevalence of coccidiosis by age group indicted that
significantly higher prevalence of coccidiosis (χ2=28.287; p=0.000) were registered in
young chicken. However, significant variation was not noticed by sex groups of chickens
(χ2=1.367; p=0.242). Generally, the present study shows that coccidiosis is the most
significant parasitic disease in the study area and further studies using large sample size
should be undertaken so as to get the overall picture of the disease in the area.
Key words: Bahir Dar; Coccidiosis; Poultry; prevalence
22

23. A CORSS SECTIONAL STUDY ON BOVINE FASCIOLOSIS IN WOLAITA
SODDO MUNICIPAL ABATTOIR
Tsedeke Maregu, Dr. YisehakTsegaye
ABSTRACT
A cross sectional study was conducted from November 2010 to March 2011 to assess the
overall prevalence of bovine fasciolosis and costs incurred due to liver condemnation in
cattle slaughtered at Wolatia Soddo Municipal Abattoir. Chi-square test was applied to
test if statistical association exists between the risk factors. The overall prevalence of
fasciolosis was found to be 27.25 % (109) from 400 randomly sampled animals. The
prevalence of F. hepatica and F. gigantica was 9.17% and 90.82%, respectively. The
prevalence of the disease in male and female animals was 27.17% and 28.12%
respectively. There was no statistically significant difference (p>0.05) observed between
sex. The highest prevalence of the parasite was recorded in animals with poor body
condition (53.06%), followed by medium body condition (38.74%), and 16.67% in
animals with good body condition. There was a statically significant (p<0.05) variation in
the prevalence among different body condition. There was significant difference (p<0.05)
in the prevalence between origin of animals. Animals originated from highland and
lowland area showed prevalence of 7.19% and 37.39%, respectively. A prevalence of
34.86% and 24.39% was recorded for cattle of age between 2 and 4 and greater than 4
years respectively. There was no statistically significant difference (p>0.05) observed in
the prevalence of fasciolosis among the studied age group. The cost associated with
condemnation of fluke infected liver was estimated to be 181,376 Ethiopian birr (10,563
USD, exchange rate 17.17) per annum. Coprology, revealed 22.5% (90) prevalence.
Accordingly, the sensitivity of feacal examination method was found to be 72.47%,
specificity was 96.21% and accuracy was 89.75% with substantial agreement between the
two tests (k=0.6999). Detailed studies should be conducted on the epidemiology of the
disease in order to expand and implement disease investigation and control strategy and
further diagnosis should be done to determine the efficiency of fecal examination method.
Key words: Bovine fasciolosis; post mortem; prevalence; Wolaita Soddo
23

24. ANTIBIOTIC SENSITIVITY PATTERN OF STAPHYLOCOCCUS AUREUS AND
ESCHERICHIA COLI
Tamirat Zelalem, Dr. Berhan Mengiste, Dr. Habtamu Tassew
ABSTRACT
Antibiotic sensitivity test was conducted from December 2010 to April 2011 on six
different antibiotics against two species of bacterial isolates with the objective of invivo
susceptibility of tested organisms to compare effectiveness of the test drugs and to
determine zone of inhibition against the bacterial isolates. Tetracycline had highest mean
zone of inhibition (28.60mm) against Staphylococcus aureus while norfloxacin had
highest mean zone of inhibition (28.60 mm) against Escherichia coli. There was high
significance (p<0.05) between groups of the drugs with the exception norfloxacin with
amoxicillin which was not significant (p>0.05) for S.aureus and tetracycline with
amoxicillin, sulfa + TMP with cefoxitin for E.coli. The study of antibiotic sensitivity
pattern and periodic surveillance of the isolates are useful in choosing the appropriate
therapy against the bacterial isolates.
Keywords: antibiotics; Escherichia coli; sensitivity; Staphylococcus aureus
24

25. PREVALENCE OF GASTRO INTESTINAL NEMATODE IN CART HORSES IN
AND AROUND KOMBOLCHA
Samuel Worku, Dr. Berihun Afera
ABSTRACT
A cross sectional study was conducted from November 2010 to April 2011 to determine
the prevalence of nematodes and identify common GIT nematode species in and around
Kombolcha using qualitative fecal analysis method in cart horses. A total of 384 animals
were sampled during the study period via collection of the fecal sample to examine GIT
nematodes and the overall prevalence of GIT nematode was 52.1% of which 32.6%, 6.5%
and 2.9% infested with Strongyle, Ascaris and Oxyuris, respectively. In addition, there
were also mixed infestation like Strongyle and Ascaris, Strongyle and Oxyuris and
Arongyle, Ascaris and Oxyuris with a prevalence of 4.9%, 4.4% and 0.8%, respectively.
There is statistical significance difference in the rates of the different nematodes
(p<0.05). Age specific prevalence of the parasites was observed and its rate was 9.4%,
27.6% and 15.1% in young, adult and old horses, respectively. And the prevalence was
found to be statically significant (p<0.05). Body condition rates also showed that the
prevalence were 18.5%, 27.1% and 6.5% in poor, medium and good body condition
horses respectively where statically significant difference was observed among the
different body conditions (p<0.05). This result showed that nematode parasites are more
prevalent in the area hence, regular deworming, pasture management are used to reduce
the warm burden in the cart horses.
Key words: Age; body condition; cart horses; GIT parasite; Nematodes; prevalence
25

26. ISOLATION OF BACTERIAL CONTAMINANTS FROM LESSIONS OF
EQUINE HISTOPLASMOSIS IN MEKELLE, NORTHERN ETHIOPIA
Dinku Biratu, Dr. Birhanu Hadush, Dr. Habtamu Taddele
ABSTRACT
A study was conducted between November 2010 to April 2011 to isolate bacterial
contaminants from confirmed lesion of Equine histoplasmosis (EH), determine the
antibiotic susceptibility patterns of the isolates and study the profile of white blood cells
(Neutrophils, Lymphocytes) across different severity stages of EH. From 24 EH positive
cart horses, a total of 47 samples were collected from either open and or closed lesions of
24 cases of EH of different stages of severity were used. Six different genera of bacteria
were isolated from the different lesions of confirmed EH cases namely Bacillus
(27.12%), Aeromonas (24.58%), Micrococcus (16.10%), Rhodococcus equi (14.41%),
and Klebsiella (0.85%) respectively. The dominant bacterium isolated from confirmed
closed lesions of EH was Aeromonas (31.91%) while from open lesions was Bacillus
(26.76%). The result of differential white blood cell count has indicated that there was
statistically significant association between severity of EH and Neutrophils count
(r2=0.95, p=0.000). On the other hand, statistically significant inverse relationship was
observed between severity of EH and lymphocyte count (r2=0.8875, p=0.000). The result
of the antibiotic sensitivity test on the dominant bacterial isolates showed that Bacillus is
susceptible to all antibiotics and Aeromonas was susceptible to Gentamycine and
Amoxacillin. On the other hand Staphylococcus has developed drug resistance except for
Cefoxitin. Micrococcus was susceptible to all antibiotics but tetracycline. The response
all antibiotics against Rhodococcus were moderate to poor. In conclusion, although the
primary cause of Equine Histoplasmosisis the fungus is the fungus Histoplasma
capsulatum var farciminosum (HCF), since bacteria do complicate the lesions treatment
of EH should include antibiotics in addition to antifungal drugs.
Key words: Bacteria; drug sensitivity test; Equine histoplasmosis
26

27. MAJOR PARASITIC CAUSES OF ORGAN CONDEMNATION IN
APPARENTLLY HEALTHY CATTLE SLAUGHTERED IN ABERGELLE
MODERN EXPORT ABATTOIR, MEKELLE.
Kflemaryam Tadesse, Dr. Netsanet Berhe
ABSTRACT
The study was conducted from November 2010 to March 2011 in Abergelle export
abattoir. The aim of this study was to identify and determine the major parasitic cause of
organ condemnation and estimate the magnitude of the direct losses attributed to the
condemned organs from cattle slaughtered in the abattoir. Standard ante mortem and post
mortem inspection procedures were followed throughout the study. During the study a
total of 902 cattle were examined. The study revealed that prevalence of different
parasites was 6.76% fasciolosis 19.02% hydatidosis and 9.20% cysticercosis. Out of 902
slaughtered cattle 188 (20.84%) livers were condemned due to various parasites at a
proportion of 61(6.76%) fasciolosis, 55(6.10%) cysticercosis, 51(5.65%) hydatidosis,
9(1.00%) concurrent infection of fasciolosis and cysticercosis, 6(0.67%) concurrent
infection of fasciolosis and hydatidosis, and 6(0.67%) due to concurrent infection of
hydatidosis and cysticerccosis. The association between age and body condition of the
animal in relation to fasciolosis were found to be statistically insignificant (p>0.05) but
the variation between origin and month found to be statistically significant (p<0.05). In
addition the association between concurrent infection of cysticercosis and fasciolosis in
liver found to be statistically significant (p<0.05), but the variation among origin, body
condition and different months were found to be statistically insignificant (p>0.05). For
independent infection of fasciolosis, cysticercosis and hydatidosis of liver the association
among different months found to be statistically significant (p<0.05). In this study
115(12.7%) lungs were condemned due to hydatidosis; and variation among age, origin,
body condition and months found to be statistically insignificant (p>0.05). Total
condemned heart were 13(1.44%) due to cysticercosis and there was not statistical
significant difference among age group, body condition, animal origin and months
(p>0.05). a total loss of 23978.59 ETB incurred in the abattoir from the three condemned
27

28. organs and it was estimated at approximately173457054.7 ETB loss per annum. After
thoroughly discussed pertinent conclusion was drawn.
Key words: Abattoir, cattle; cysticercosis; fasciolosis; hydatidosis, economic loss, organ
condemnation; prevalence
CHIEF CONSTRAINTS IN THE SUCCESS OF ARTIFICIAL INSEMINATION
PROGRAME IN AND AROUND MEKELLE
Getachew Abadi
ABSTRACT
A study was conducted from November 2010 to April 2011 in and around Mekelle. This
study was conducted to assess problems and chief constraints that hinder the success of
AI in the study area. A total of 320 cattle owners and 21 Artificial Insemination
technicians were interviewed using structured questionnaire survey. Chief constraints in
the study area include: timing insemination problem (8.4%), heat detection problem
(11.9%), management problem (16.9%), disease problem (19.4%), low experience of
Artificial Insemination Technicians (7.2%) and lack of awareness about Artificial
insemination (35.9%). Lack of ownership and follow up, inadequate man power & lack
of commitment, lack of attention to this field, limitation of inputs, facilities and
infrastructural problems were also mentioned by Artificial Insemination technicians. The
study has found an alarming result with motivations of the Artificial insemination
technicians in which 78% of them have indicated that they are not motivated to work as
AI technicians due to associated problems and constraints
Key words: Constraints, Artificial insemination, Questionnaire survey
28

29. AGE PROFILE AND DENTAL DISORDERS OF DONKEYS IN TWO
SELECTED WORKING SITES OF TIGRAY DONKEY HEALTH AND
WELFARE PROJECT
Fikreslasie Dawit
ABSTRACT
Nutritional status, measured as body condition, has been used to assess welfare in
working Equines due to that; dental abnormalities have substantial impact on the
nutritional status of donkeys because they limit digestibility of feeds and the nutrient
utilization. This cross sectional study was conducted from November 2010 to April 2011
in two selected working sites of Tigray Donkey health and welfare projects, Adigudem
and Quiha with the objective of determining the prevalence of dental disorder and age
profile in donkeys in the working sites. A total of 384 donkeys were selected from the
total 990 donkeys presented to the clinics in the study area using systemic random
sampling method and all donkeys were examined by opening of mouth cavity using
mouth speculum. From the total 384 donkeys 154 (40.1%) of them had dental disorders.
In the current study three types of dental abnormality were examined which include
incisor teeth abnormality 11(2.9%), check teeth abnormality 128(33.3%) and periodontal
disease 15(3.9%). The age profile of donkey was also determined in those working sites
and the age proportion obtained were 4.4% (n=17), 22.4% (n=86), 46.4% (n=178), 18.4%
(n=71), 6.0% (n=23) and 2.3% (n=9) in age groups of <2.5years, 2.5-5 years, 6-10 years,
11-15 years, 16-20 years, 20+ years, respectively. There was no significant difference
(p>0.05) among the different soil type and sex but statistical analysis of dental disorder
on site, age and body condition scoring showed significant difference (p<0.05). This
study conclude that about 81.25% of above 16 years old donkey have dental disorder and
about 66.7% of donkeys presented in less than moderate body condition scoring have
dental disorders. The study revealed that dental disorder was an important constrains in
the welfare of donkeys which limit their nutritional status. Further study and extension
education should be carried out to create awareness on the people.
Key words: Adigudem; age profile; dental disorder; Donkeys; prevalence; Quiha
29

30. STUDY ON THE PREVALENCE OF BOVINE MASTITIS IN AND AROUND
BAHIR DAR DAIRY FARMS BAHIRDAR, ETHIOPIA
Muhammed Suleman, Dr. Gebreiwot Taddesse, Dr. Yohannes Hagos
ABSTRACT
A cross sectional study was conducted from November 2010 to April 2011 on a total of
311 lactating dairy cows (local and cross breed) to determine the prevalence of mastitis,
isolate the predominate bacterial causative agents, and to assess the role of some potential
risk factors of mastitis in Bahir Dar town and its surrounding. Clinical prevalence was
determined through examination of abnormalities in milk and udder where California
Mastitis Test (CMT) was utilized as a screening test to be able to determine the
prevalence of subclinical mastitis. The overall mastitis prevalence recorded in the study
area was 53.4% (n=166), out of which 2.6% (n=8) clinical and 50.4% (n=158) were
subclinical cases. Of the 1244 quarter examined, 2.3% (n=29) were blind teats and 27.3%
(n=332) showed evidence of infection of subclinical mastitis. About 142 bacterial isolates
were identified from CMT positive and mastitis milk samples. The most frequent isolates
were Coagulase Negative Staphylococcus (CNS) species (45.77%), Staphylococcus aures
(S.aures) (23.2%), Streptococcus species (12.68%) and Entrobacteriaceae (9.8) other
than Escherichia coli (E.coli) (23.2%). Other species isolated included E.coli (3.5%),
Micrococcus (2.8%), Pseudomonas (1.4%), and Corynabacterium (0.7%). The
occurrence of mastitis varied significantly (p<0.005) among breeds which was higher in
cross breed cows 38.9% (n=121), than local Fogera 15.8% (n=49). The prevalence of
mastitis was also significantly (p<0.005) associated with the presence of tick and/or
lesion washing the udder and hand before milking. There was no significant difference
(p>0.05) between lactating cows with lactation stage and parity number. The study
showed that mastitis is the problem of dairy cows in the study area and the major isolates
were contagious pathogens. Therefore, hygienic milking practice, culling of chronically
infected cows and proper hygienic practice in the dairy farms could be feasible option to
control the disease in the study area.
Key words: Bacterial isolates, Bahir Dar, CMT, lactating cows, mastitis, prevalence
30

31. PREVALENCE OF BOVINE FASCIOLOSIS IN BAHIR DAR MUNICIPAL
ABATTOIR
Habtamu Terefe
ABSTRACT
A cross sectional study on prevalence of bovine Fasciolosis was carried out at Bahir Dar
municipal abattoir. The study was conducted from November 2010 to March 2011. This
study was used to establish the prevalence of bovine Fasciolosis in Bahir Dar municipal
abattoir and to compare diagnostic efficiency of faecal and postmortem examination. A
total of 384 cattle were randomly selected from the total number of cattle slaughtered
during the study period. Faecal samples were examined using sedimentation technique
followed by postmortem examination of each slaughtered animals. Abattoir survey
revealed that the overall prevalence of fasciolosis in the study was 32.3% and 44.8% in
coproscopic and post mortem examination respectively. There was also a statistically
significant (p<0.05) value in between this results. Coproscopic examination was revealed
a prevalence of 39.28% and 25.25%; post mortem examination was revealed a prevalence
of 50% and 39.89% in animals of old and adult age groups respectively. The current
study on age groups had statistically significant effect on the prevalence of bovine
fasciolosis (p<0.05). The prevalence of poor body condition animals under coproscopic
examination was 36.40% where as good body condition animals were 26.28%. The
prevalence of post mortem examination was 50.43% and 37.82% in poor and good body
condition animals respectively. It was statistically significant (p<0.05). From the total
livers found to be positive for bovine Fasciolosis 69.28% were infected with F. hepatica,
14.53% were infected with F. gigantica and 16.8% were infected with immature or
unidentified form of Fasciola species. These results indicate that F. hepatica was the most
common liver fluke species that leads to high liver condemnation rates in cattle
slaughtered in the study area.
Key words: Bahir Dar; bovine; coproscopy; fasciolosis; prevalence
31

32. STUDY ON PREVALENCE OF LUNG WORM INFECTION IN SHEEP
SLAUTHERED AT ABERGELE EXPORT ABATTOIR
Fiseha Kidanu, Dr. Yohannes Hagos
ABSTRACT
A cross-sectional study was conducted in Mekelle Abergelle export abattoir from
November, 2009 to April, 2010 to determine the prevalence of lung worm infection and
identifying the species of the lung worm using post mortem examination and Baerman
technique and to determine the likely potential risk factors by questionnaire surveys.
Accordingly, a total of 571 sheep were sampled. Out of 571 sheep examined, 177 were
found positive for lung worm on post mortem examination and the overall prevalence of
lung worm in the study area was found to be 31.0% (117/571). In this study the
prevalence rate of Dictyocaulos filaria (15.8%) was found to be higher than
Prostrongylus rufescens (8.8%) and Mulleries capillaries (6.1%). The prevalence of lung
worm infection was significantly influenced by age (χ2=29.125, p=0.000) and it was
higher in age groups of less than 1 year 3 month (42.72%) than 1year 3 months to 1 year
10 month (32.12%) and greater than 1 year 10 month (18.0%), similarly there was
statistically significant difference (χ2=32.235, p=0.000) in prevalence of lung worm
infection among thin body condition score (50.78%), average (24.39%) and fat (36.36%).
Generally, it is possible to conclude that ovine dictyocaulosis is major problem of sheep
within the different origins of the animals in the study area. Therefore, extension work to
increase the attitude of the society in using chemotherapy, sensible grazing system and
other possible prevention and control measures should be focused.
Key words: Mekelle, Ovine, Ovine dictyocaulosis, prevalence
32

33. PREVALENCE AND IDENTIFICATION OF HARD TICKS (IXODIDES) ON
BOVINE IN SHASHEMENE VETERINARY CLINIC
Mohammed Siraj, Dr. Nesibu Awol, Dr. Birhanu Hadush
ABSTRACT
This cross-sectional study was carried out from November 2010 to April 2011 at
Shashemene veterinary clinic with the objectives of determining the prevalence of tick
infestation and identifying the major species of ticks encountered in cattle. During the
study period a total of 393 cattle were examined and all of them were infested with tick.
A total of 1953 ticks were collected from half body regions of all cattle. As a whole four
genera and six species of Ixodid ticks were identified. The tick genera identified were
Amblyomma (55.97%), Boophilus (21.09%), Hyalomma (13.52%) and Rhipicephalus
(9.42%). Amblyomma variegatum (34.9%), Boophilus decolaratus (21.1%), Amblyomma
cohaerence (14%), Hyalomma marginatum rufipes (13.5%), Rhipicephalus evertsi evertsi
(9.4%) and Amblyomma lepidum (7.1%) were the species of tick identified in decreasing
order. Further study and strategic control of ticks is recommended.
Key words: Cattle, Ixodid tick, prevalence, Shashemene.
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34. EVALUATION OF THE REPRODUCTIVE PERFORMANCE OF CROSSBRED
DAIRY CATTLE IN KALLAMINO DAIRY FARM, MEKELLE
Tsegay Haftu, Dr. Theodros Tekle
ABSTRACT
Evaluation on the reproductive performance of 70 crossbred Holstein Friesian dairy cows
was conducted at Kallamino dairy farm, Mekelle. The study was based on a retrospective
individual cow breeding record analysis covering the period 1998 to 2006. The mean age
of the cows was found to be 7.9 years and the mean parity of the dairy cows was
registered to be 4. The mean age at first service and mean age at first calving of the farm
were 26.1months and 35.2months, respectively. The average days to first observed heat
was 64.7days and days open of 114 days was recorded. Service per conception of 1.8, dry
period of 62.6days and calving interval of 15.3 months were recorded. According to this
study, parity has no significance effect (p>0.05) on S/C, average days open and average
days to observed heat. Based on the result of this study, the farm needs to check on age at
first calving and calving interval through developing good management systems mainly
based on feeding and effective reproductive health management.
Key words: Crossbred cows, Mekelle, Reproductive performance
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35. STATUS OF ARTIFICIAL INSEMINATION SERVICE AT FIELD LEVEL IN
EASTERN ZONE OF TIGRAY
Hagos Asgele, Dr. Gebregiorgis Ashebir
ABSTRACT
A retrospective study was conducted from November 2010 to April 2011 in eastern zone
of Tigray to determine the status of artificial insemination in the study area for the last
seven years (2004 to 2010). The data was collected from Regional Artificial Insemination
Center (RAIC) and by interviewing and discussing closely with the 325 livestock
owners.AI service eastern zone of Tigray has been showing a little progress in the
successive years, because of the farmers understanding the advantage of AI had good
progeny, increase milk quality and quantity, and economic importance rather than bull
keeping in their house would expose them to additional expenditure greater than AI
service. The AI field service operates use three strategies, the first and widely used
system is a daily round with which inseminators visit farms, villages and crush sites using
motor bikes alongside the main road, the second Static point with which AI technicians
are stationed on farms where a large number of animals are kept. Large number of
respondents had been observed to express that the main factors for failure to conceive
were associated with heat detection and insemination time (21.2%), management
problem, heat detection and insemination time (20.4%), management problem (10.8%),
management problem and diseases (15.2%), respectively. Problems related to only lack of
skilled technicians (6.4%), timing of insemination (14.4%), diseases (7.2%) and heat
detection (4.4%) were noticed to have a minor effect. According to the survey, more than
half (55.6%) of the respondents were getting their AI service on static points whereas,
(44.3%) of the respondents noted to have received their service by going to traveling on
request. The assessment of AI regard to different farming systems shows that more than
half (53.7%) of the respondent of intensive management system preferred AI service
relative to semi intensive and extensive farming system were recorded as, 38.1%,and
8.1% respectively.
Key words: Artificial insemination, dairy cattle, Eastern zone of Tigray
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36. STUDY ON SERO-PREVALENCE OF BOVINE AND HUMAN BRUCELLOSIS
IN AND AROUND ASELLE, EASTERN ARSI ZONE, OROMIA REGIONAL
STATE OF ETHIOPIA
Abdulazim Usman Kimo, Dr. Yohannes Hagos
ABSTRACT
A cross-sectional study was conducted in and around Asella from November 2010 to
March 2011, to determine the prevalence of bovine and human brucellosis using RBPT
and CFT and to identify the likely potential risk factors. A total of 417 dairy cattle and
400 humans were sampled. The sampling involved all cattle above 6 months of age with
no history of previously vaccinated against brucellosis and humans suspected to the
disease with the history of exposure. Out of 417 cattle 22 (5.28 %) were positive to RBPT
of which 16 (3.84 %) were confirmed to be positive whereas out of 400 human screened
by RBPT, 9 (2.25 %) were positive of which 5 (1.25 %) were confirmed to be positive to
CFT. The overall prevalence of bovine and human brucellosis in the study area was 3.84
% and 1.25%, respectively. In cattle the prevalence of brucellosis was significantly
influenced by both abortion (χ2=36.434, p=0.000) and retained fetal membrane (χ2=6.045,
p=0.014) and a prevalence rates of 35.71% and 22.73% were recorded with history of
abortion and retained fetal membrane, respectively, similarly in humans the prevalence of
brucellosis was statistically significant with exposure to animal products and by-products
(χ2=14.582, p=0.002) and occupational groups (χ2=16.956, p=0.001). However, no
significant difference was observed between age groups (χ2=4.947, p=0.084) and sex
(χ2=2.318, p=0.128) in cattle, similarly in humans the prevalence was found to be
statistically insignificant with both sex (χ2=2.044, p=0.153) and age groups (χ2=1.865,
p=0.761). The questionnaire survey were conducted on 14 farm owner and 113 humans
presented at hospital. Out of 14 farm owners only 3 (21.4%) had little knowledge on
brucellosis and wear protective gloves during handling aborted cows and retained fetal
membrane. Whereas out of 113 people presented at hospital 84 (74.34%) had no
information about its zoonotic importance. In general brucellosis control strategies in
cattle includes improved management practice, test and slaughter policy while in human
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37. creating awareness of people on its zoonotic importance, use of cooked animal product
and by product and early treatment need to be initiated and promoted.
Key words: Asella; Bovine; Brucellosis; Human; Prevalence
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