Factors influencing gastrointestinal nematode infections in Gaddi sheep and goats kept in smallholder farming conditions

This study investigated the burden and risk factors of gastrointestinal nematode parasite infections in sheep and goats kept in smallholder mixed farms in Kullu valley. Seasonally, highest prevalence and faecal egg counts were observed in rainy season followed by summer and winter months. Among the different factors at the animal level some significant variation in FEC levels was observed among animals of different age groups. Significantly lower FEC (P<0.05) was observed in the dewormed animals as compared to non dewormed animals. Significantly lower FEC (P<0.05) was observed in the animals of educated farmers and those following the migratory system of grazing. It was concluded that for controlling gastrointestinal helminths in small ruminants, integrated approach involving adopting rotational grazing practices, education of farmers and proper use of anthelmintics is required with reduced dependence on anthelmintics.