| dc.description.abstract | The effects of anthelmintics treatments in controlling gastrointestinal nematodes in
breeding ewes in a semi-arid area of Kenya were determined. The study carried out
during two breeding seasons, between June 2000 and December 2001 where albendazole
was administered to groups of ewes, 2 weeks before mating, 3 weeks to lambing and mid
lactation indicated significantly lower nematode egg counts in treated than untreated
groups of ewes. In the first breeding season, reduced rainfall resulted in pasture scarcity
and weight loss in both groups of ewes through out the gestation period, but losses were
higher for the untreated group. In the second season, both groups of ewes showed a
steady increase in weight gain during the gestation period and post-partum, but weight
gains were higher in the treated group. In lambs, weight gains at 6 weeks were higher for
treated ewes than control groups, in both breeding seasons. The results of this trial
indicate that anthelmintic treatments in breeding ewes in the study area are beneficial in
reducing gastrointestinal nematode infections and improving performance of the ewes
and their lambs. In addition to the treatments, breeding ewes should be given feed
supplementation particularly during periods of pasture scarcity. | en |
