The Use of Ethnoveterinary Practices in the Treatment of Skin Diseases in Small Ruminants in Iwo Agricultural Zone of Osun State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study assesses the use of ethnoveterinary practices (EVPS) in the treatment of skin diseases in small ruminants in Iwo Agricultural Zone of Osun State. Multi-stage sampling was used to select fifty one respondents for this study. The data were collected with using a well structured questionnaire. Data collected were analysed using frequency distribution, means and standard deviation as descriptive tools while Chi- square was used to test the relationship between the use of ethnoveterinary practices and effectiveness of ethnoveterinary practices in the study area. Semi-intensive system of rearing system is the most common rearing methods in the study area. Skin mange is the most common ruminant diseases in the area and was found to be common during the raining season. Mode of transmission of the skin diseases is physical contact and the signs of the diseases include irritation/rubbing of body against the wall, ruffled flur and falling of hair, white scaly skin, formation of scab and alopecia. Ethnoveterinary
practices (EPVs) is the most common health management practices in the study area. The most widely utilized ethnoveterinary materials in the study area include the use engine oil, sulphur, kerosene, and battery carbon. Almost all the respondents claim that they have adequate access to local materials and the cost of treatment using the local materials is affordable. The result of Chi-square analysis indicates a significant relationship between the determinants of the use of ethnoveterinary practices and effectiveness of ethnoveterinary practices in the study area. The study therefore concludes that ethnoveterinary practices offered the most cheaper and affordable means to provide a good and efficient medical care to small ruminants.