Leptospirosis has been a major concern and threat to animals and humans globally despite the effort in vaccination. This study investigated seroprevalence of leptospirosis in vaccinated and unvaccinated dogs in FCT, Nigeria. Two hundred (200) dogs across three Area councils in Abuja, the Federal Capital territory (FCT) of Nigeria, were selected through simple random sampling between the year 2019 and 2020.Blood samples were collected during the wet and dry season from the dogs. Vaccination status, sex, age, seasonal variation and breed variation were used to establish the prevalence of Leptospirosis. Dogs with high antibody titre to Leptospira ELISA kit was tagged positive to Leptospirosis. The study conducted in Abuja, Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nigeria, revealed an overall prevalence of leptospirosis in dogs at 98%. Among the dogs tested, the prevalence was slightly higher in vaccinated dogs (98.31%) compared to unvaccinated dogs (97.56%). Demographic and Seasonal Distribution revealed that the prevalence varied by sex, with male dogs showing a rate of 97.73% and female dogs at 98.53%. In terms of age, adult dogs had a prevalence of 98.08%, while puppies showed a slightly lower rate of 97.37%. Seasonal analysis indicated that the prevalence remained consistent at 98% during both wet and dry seasons. Breed-pecific Prevalence shows that breed-specific prevalence are as follows: Alsatian: 98.33%, Caucasian: 96.67%, Mongrel (indigenous breed),96.67%, Boerboel 96.67%, Rottweiler 93.75%, Lhassa Apso: 91.67%, Labrador 90%, Belgian Malinois 87.50%, Springer Spaniel 75%, This study found no significant associations between leptospirosis prevalence and the variables of vaccination status, sex, age, season, or breed (p > 0.05). This study concluded that there is high and uniform prevalence of leptospirosis among dogs in the FCT, regardless of vaccination status,  underscores the need for improved public awareness and disease control measures. Additionally, further investigation into the reliability and efficacy of leptospirosis vaccines used in Nigeria is warranted to optimize prevention strategies and safeguard animal and human health. 

Awareness of antimicrobial usage and emergence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) among livestock farmers is of paramount importance in overcoming the challenges of AMR in agriculture and public health. A survey was conducted among 100 livestock farmers in ten randomly selected Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Katsina State, Nigeria using a structured questionnaire to explore awareness of livestock farmers towards antimicrobial usage and Antimicrobial Resistance. Descriptive statistics were conducted to obtain frequencies and proportions of the outputs. A Mann-Whitney test was performed to get the difference in attitude of participants to antimicrobial use and AMR. Fifty-four (54%) of livestock farmers were shown to have poor knowledge of and 35 (35%) were shown to be misusers of antimicrobials and AMR. On the practices in the use of antimicrobial, the study revealed that, the most common antimicrobials used by the participants were oxytetracycline (59%), penicillin (10%), and gentamicin (2%). There was no significant association between participants’ level of knowledge, attitude and practices and the usage of Antimicrobials and AMR among livestock farmers in Katsina State (p= 0 .219). Therefore, in line with the recommendations of World Health Organization (WHO) for creating Awareness, and improving KAP of antimicrobials and AMR emergence, the results of the survey underpin the need for concerted efforts to overcome the threat of AMR through tailored programmes, research and policy direction.

The productive performance and feed cost benefits of broiler chickens fed unpeeled yellow cassava root meal (UYCRM) was investigated in this experiment. One hundred and twenty unsexed day old Ross 308 broiler chicks were randomly assigned to four dietary treatments in a Completely Randomized Design with 0% (control), 25%, 50% and 75% inclusion levels of UYCRM designated as T1, T2, T3 and T4 respectively. Each treatment was made up of 30 birds, divided into three replicates with ten birds per replicate. Feed and water were supplied ad libitum throughout the 8 weeks of the experiment. All growth parameters studied were significantly (P<0.05) affected by the dietary treatments. Birds fed control diet had higher final body weight (2798.81g), average daily weight gain (49.01g) and lower feed intake (38.02g) followed by those on 25% UYCRM diet. Birds on T1 also had a superior feed conversion ratio of 0.78 which was followed closely by birds on T2 (0.80). The cut parts (breast, back cut, thigh and wings) as well gizzard, crop and intestine weights differed significantly (P<0.05) among the treatments. Cost of feed decreased significantly (P<0.05) with the increasing level of UYCRM. The study showed that the UYCRM has considerable potential as components of broiler chickens diets in developing countries. It was therefore concluded that unpeeled yellow cassava root meal could be included at 25% (T2) in broiler chicken diet without any adverse effect on the performance or at 50% (T3) when the gross margin (gain) was considered. 

Anthrax as a zoonotic disease with both public health significance in human population as well as serious economic loss to livestock farmers.  This case report describes the first confirmed bovine anthrax outbreak in Zamfara State, Northwestern Nigeria. On January 5th, 2025, a white Fulani bull died suddenly on a large animal farm in Kaura-Namoda Local Government Area. The affected carcass exhibited unclotted blood oozing from the rectum and nostrils without any prior clinical signs. The bull, bought from Nassarawar-Godal animal market in Birnin Magaji Local Government Area about 75 kilometers away, had been kept for fattening with other bulls and small ruminants. Following the death, the farm attendant promptly informed zonal veterinary officers, who collected blood samples and sent them to the National Veterinary Research Institute (NVRI) in Vom, Plateau State. On January 13th, another bull from the same farm, originating from Kasuwar Daji animal market, collapsed with similar symptoms; samples were also taken. Nearby, two Sokoto Gudali bulls died suddenly with comparable signs. Veterinary teams collected further samples and implemented control measures, including deep burial of carcasses and disinfection of affected farms to prevent transmission. On January 20th, NVRI confirmed Bacillus anthracis as the cause of death, marking the first anthrax outbreak in Zamfara State. Public health actions included identifying and screening contacts of affected carcasses, community awareness campaigns, stakeholder engagement, and a mass vaccination campaign covering all 14 local government areas in the state. This outbreak highlights the need for timely detection and coordinated veterinary and public health responses to control zoonotic diseases.

One hundred and twenty Marshall Breed broiler chickens were used to investigate the effect of raw Leucaena leucocephala seeds meal in the diet of broiler chickens. The birds were randomly assigned to the four treatments /diets in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD), each treatment made up of three replicates each with 10 birds per replicate. With the exception of treatment one (T1) which is the control, the other treatments T2, T3 and T4 contained incorporated milled raw Leucaena leucocephala seeds meal at 2.50%, 5.00% and 7.50% respectively. The result showed a significant difference (P<0.05) in the growth performance, cut-parts (expressed as % dressed weight) and in organ weights (expressed as % dressed weight). For haematological indices, the values were significantly different (P<0.05) for the parameters measured with the exception of hemoglobin (Hb). The values for the RBC, PCV, WBC and MCV, fell within the normal range of haematological indices for broiler chickens. For blood chemistry there were significant differences (P<0.05) for all the parameters measured. Values for total protein, albumin and urea for T2 (2.5%) inclusion fell within the normal range for broiler production. From the economics of diet, in view of the cost/kg weight gain, weight gain, revenue and gross margin, birds on T2 (2.5%) inclusion of raw Leucaena leucocephala seeds mealbased diets were most productive. In all, birds on 2.5% inclusion of raw Leucaena leucocephala seeds meal performed maximally or best than the rest. Hence soybean meal can be safely and most productively be replaced with 2.5% inclusion of raw Leucaena leucocephala seeds meal in the diet of broiler birds.

This research work was conducted to survey and isolate Escherichia coli and Salmonella organisms from Japanese raw quail eggs from 10 selected farms within Sokoto metropolis. A total of 50 Japanese raw quail eggs were used for this study, 5 eggs from each of the selected farms. The eggs were collected and transported aseptically in sterile polythene bags to the Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto Department of Public health Laboratory for processing. The external surface of each egg sample was swabbed using sterile swab stick pre-enriched in peptone water and selenite F broth separately while the internal content was homogenized and pre-enriched in peptone water and selenite F broth separately incubated at 37oC for 24 hours. The culture was streaked on Mac Conkey agar separately and incubated at 37oC for 24 hours. Plates were then examined for the presence of small circular pale and pinkish colonies; suggestive of non-lactose fermenters and lactose fermenters respectively. Discrete colonies of pale and pinkish colonies were gram stained and observed under a light microscope for cellular characterization. Biochemical tests comprising of Triple sugar ion (TSI) test was conducted on each Salmonella isolate and Indole production on each E. coli isolate. From the samples processed, 21 of the isolates could be identified as E. coli base on their biochemical characteristics of which 11 were from egg external swab and 13 from egg content swab while 19 could be identified as salmonella base on their biochemical reactions, of which 8 were from egg external swab and 11 from egg content swab. Findings from this study shows that raw Japanese quail eggs from 9 farms out of the 10 selected farms within Sokoto metropolis sold to public for consumption were contaminated and this may be partly due to unhygienic practices within farms. To reduce the E. coli and salmonella contamination on quail eggs strategies should be employed which include hygienic maintenance of flock, implementation of hazard analysis for critical control point (HACCP) systems, and increased consumer education through media and public enlightenment. In advance consumption of raw and undercooked quail eggs should be avoided and washed adequately before use.

Brucellosis is an important zoonotic disease affecting animals and humans. A cross-sectional study was conducted to determine the prevalence of Brucellosis in sheep and goats slaughtered at Sokoto metropolitan abattoir using serological assay and molecular detection technique. Serum samples from 131 sheep and 242 goats were analyzed. An overall prevalence of 10.72% (40/373) was recorded using PCR while none of the samples was positive by RBPT. The prevalence rates in sheep and goats were 12.2% (16/131) and 9.91% (24/242) respectively, while the sex prevalence rates were 16.47% and 4.54% for rams and ewes respectively. The prevalence based on breed were 15.18%, 11.11% and 0% for Ouda, Balami and Yankasa respectively. The sex prevalence for goats were 10.08% and 9.75% for bucks and does, while the breed prevalence rates were 50%, 33.3% and 9.28% for Sahelian, West African Dwarf and Red Sokoto goat respectively. A statistically significant association between Brucella infection and sex of sheep (p=0.037) was observed. However, there was no statistically significant association (p>0.05) between the infection and the small ruminant species, breeds and sex of goats. The study revealed presence of brucellosis in sheep and goats in the study area and the occupational hazards associated with the zoonotic disease. 

Brucellosis is an important but often neglected zoonosis that results in serious economic losses in both livestock and human populations. In Nigeria, the prevalence of Brucella is increasing, particularly among camels. A cross-sectional study was conducted in the Northern senatorial district of Yobe State, which includes Karasuwa, Machina, Nguru, and Yusufari, to determine the seroprevalence of Brucella abortus in camels and assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of camel handlers regarding brucellosis. A total of 250 blood (serum) samples were collected from camels of various sexes and ages using convenience sampling. The samples were tested using the Rose Bengal Plate Test (RBPT), Serum Agglutination Test (SAT), and Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA). A Structured, close-ended questionnaire was also employed and administered to the camel handlers. Results showed that 106 samples (42.4%) were seropositive by RBPT, 56 (22.4%) by SAT, and 42 (16.8%) by ELISA. Notably, 40 out of 56 camels with SAT titers had clinically significant antibody levels (≥1:80), indicating infection. Prevalence was higher in females compared to males across all tests, with statistical significance (p < 0.05). Additionally, adult camels aged 7 years and above showed a higher prevalence than younger camels (<7 years) based on RBPT results (p < 0.05). However, no significant differences were found among locations within the study area (p > 0.05). Analysis of the structured questionnaire revealed that camel handlers lacked comprehensive knowledge about brucellosis and its zoonotic potential but were aware of the disease in other species like cattle and goats. They did not practice preventive measures such as quarantine and consumed unboiled milk without protective clothing while handling camels. The study established a seroprevalence of Brucella abortus antibodies in camels in Yobe State and highlighted the lack of knowledge among camel handlers regarding the disease and its risks. Recommendations include monitoring herds with positive camels, advising culling of positive reactors, conducting public awareness campaigns on brucellosis's public health significance, and instituting routine surveillance and control programs in the region.

This study evaluated the performance of West African Dwarf (WAD) goats fed diets with varying levels of chopped palm fronds supplemented with a concentrate diet. The objectives were to analyze the proximate nutrient composition, evaluate feed intake, assess weight gain, and determine the feed conversion ratio (FCR) across different feeding regimens. Twenty goats with an initial body weight of 6.23-6.45 kg were assigned to five treatments in a completely randomized design: T1 (100% concentrate), T2 (20% palm frond + 80% concentrate), T3 (40% palm frond + 60% concentrate), T4 (60% palm frond + 40% concentrate), and T5 (80% palm frond + 20% concentrate), The concentrate diet consisted of 40% pullet droppings, 20.5% wheat offal, 23.5% palm kernel cake, 5% limestone, 1% salt, and 10% Alfa-Safe, was fed for 12 weeks. Results showed significant differences (p<0.05) in growth performance. Goats on T3 achieved the highest final body weight (9.35 kg), total body weight gain (3.25 kg), and average daily weight gain (0.05 kg), with the best FCR (5.91). Total feed intake did not differ significantly (p>0.05) across treatments, ranging from 26.17 to 28.51 kg. The findings suggest that a diet of 40% palm frond and 60% concentrate optimizes growth performance and feed efficiency in WAD goats, offering a balanced and cost-effective feeding strategy for goat production.

A 6-month-old local breed dog weighing 13.4 kg was presented to the Small Animal Unit of the Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, with non–weight-bearing lameness on the right hindlimb following a road traffic accident. The dog was weak but responsive, with evident swelling and crepitation on the affected limb. Radiographic and clinical findings confirmed a long spiral comminuted fracture of the right femur. Haematological analysis revealed anaemia and mild eosinophilia. Surgical stabilisation was achieved through open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF). Postoperative management included analgesics, antibiotics, haematinics, and vitamins. Recovery was uneventful, though the patient was not presented for subsequent follow-up evaluations. This case underscores the importance of timely surgical intervention, appropriate fixation methods, and diligent postoperative care in achieving satisfactory outcomes in canine femoral fractures.