The book provides the general background about production aspects of rabbit rearing. The information provided in the book has been based on the rearing practices adopted for rabbits in India. Keeping in view the relevance of rabbit production, specific topics have been chosen about the rabbits. The information provided in the book is based on the vast professional experiences, research findings and latest data from unmatched sources. The book has been written in a manner so that it could be used extensively by the students, teachers and academics in the educational and research institutes dealing with Veterinary Sciences, Animal Sciences and Livestock Production. The field functionaries in the Animal Husbandry Department and livestock farms both in public as well as private sector will find book very useful tool for successful rabbit production. The following s have been included in the book.

This book on swine production, health and management emphasizes the swine rearing in totality. The authors have added expertise to all areas of the book. Swine, if reared under modern scientific methods, may provide significant economic benefits to its owner. Management, housing, knowledge about its anatomy and physiology, breeding/ reproduction, nutrition/ feeding, health/disease, production, products, marketing and economics are the facets which one needs to be well aware of to get optimum profitable return from this animal. The authors have tried to cover pig as an individual unit as well as an industry/ enterprise. Considering the importance of swine in the field of veterinary and animal sciences, this book has been written to provide a more academic, scientific and field oriented approach, thus making it suitable to the needs of academicians, scientists, students, field practitioners and the general reader. Newer aspects of swine husbandry are described with elaborate suggested reading references to aid in further reading.

Bringing together the experience of three top academic experts in breeding procedure, this up-to-date second edition of Managing Breeds for a Secure Future examines breeding and genetics at a level accessible to all. This new edition has been revised to cover emerging debates in animal breeding and includes domestic species such as dogs and horses.The authors skilfully use a clear discussion of theoretical genetics to explain its practical applications to a wide audience of livestock and domestic animal breeders. Specific examples are provided throughout to illustrate how decisions regarding breeding and management relate back to genetic theory.Advice is given on all areas pertaining to the process of responsible breed management from selecting pairs and mating systems to registry functions and long-term management. Current topics of interest covered include: breeding for robustness and disease resistance, international movement of livestock, and preserving endangered breeds. Breed associations are also discussed in depth with particular emphasis on how reducing common conflicts can secure the future of breeds for generations to come.This practical book offers a comprehensive examination of breeding practices aimed at livestock and dog breeders of all abilities and experience levels. The first edition was published by The Livestock Conservancy.

Polly Pullar has had a passion for red squirrels since childhood. As a wildlife rehabilitator, she knows the squirrel on a profoundly personal level and has hand-reared numerous litters of orphan kits, eventually returning them to the wild. In this book she shares her experiences and love for the squirrel and explores how our perceptions have changed. Heavily persecuted until the 1960s, it has since become one of the nation's most adored mammals. But we are now racing against time to ensure its long-term survival in an ever-changing world. Set against the beautiful backdrop of Polly's Perthshire farm, where she works continuously to encourage wildlife great and small, she highlights how nature can, and indeed will, recover if only we give it a chance. In just two decades, her efforts have brought spectacular results, and numerous squirrels and other animals visit her wild farm every day.

This book is the final one in a set of four providing a series on controlled reproduction in farm animals. The aim of the series is to provide a general review of the literature dealing with the different ways in which reproduction in the major farm mammals can be controlled and manipulated. The four volumes are effectively an expanded and new edition of a previous work, "Controlled Breeding in Farm Animals" (Pergamon Press, 1983). However, the literature on this subject has expanded so rapidly since the time of the earlier volume, that it is now thought appropriate to publish it in four separate volumes.Buffaloes, goats, deer and camelids have been added to the species covered by the series compared to the previous book. All volumes provide comprehensive reference lists and are fully up-to-date. This final volume focuses on horses, deer and camelids (camels, llamas and alpacas). All of these animals are attracting increasing attention for either leisure pursuits, meat or fiber production. The book will appeal to reproductive physiologists and workers in animal production, animal breeding and veterinary medicine.

In many tropical areas, the main constraint to increased output of livestock products is the inability of producers to feed animals adequately throughout the year. Yet opportunities exist to enhance ruminant livestock feed supplies by using crop residues, such as cereal straw and legume haulms. Greater emphasis is therefore now being placed on vegetative production in plant breeding research. Crop residues also play an important role in conserving soil moisture, preventing erosion and providing products such as fuel or thatch for smallholders. This book provides a multi-disciplinary perspective on crop residues, bringing together crop, animal and social scientists from six continents. It has been developed from papers presented at a workshop held in April 1996, at ICRISAT Asia Center, as part of the Systemwide Livestock Program of the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR) convened by the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), based in Africa. It will appeal to a wide readership in disciplines as diverse as agronomy, soil science, plant breeding, animal nutrition and socio-economics.

"All three volumes of Achieving sustainable production of milk should be considered as a whole...Over more than 1200 pages, the authors review all fields of milk production, beginning with milk composition, genetics and breeding, safety and milk quality, sustainability of milk production as well as dairy herd management, health, welfare and nutrition of dairy. All three volumes could be considered a standard reference for graduate students in the fields of dairy science and veterinary medicine, animal and dairy scientists at universities and other research centres, and also those in governments and companies involved or working in the field of milk production." Animal Feed Science and Technology In meeting rising demand, more intensive dairying systems face a range of challenges such as maintaining high standards of safety in the face of the continuing threat from zoonoses entering the food chain, whilst sustaining nutritional and sensory quality. At the same time farms need to become more efficient and sustainable. Finally, farming must also meet higher standards of animal health and welfare. Drawing on an international range of expertise, this book reviews research addressing the welfare, nutrition and health of dairy cattle. Part 1 begins by discussing key issues in welfare followed by topics such as genetic selection and welfare, housing and transportation. Part 2 looks at nutrition with chapters on rumen microbiology, feed evaluation and formulation, feed supplements and feed safety. The final part of the book covers aspects of health such as control of diseases and other disorders such as lameness as well as dairy herd health management. Achieving sustainable production of milk Volume 3: Dairy herd management and welfare will be a standard reference for animal and dairy scientists in universities, government and other research centres and companies involved in beef production. It is accompanied by two other volumes which review milk composition, genetics and breeding as well as safety, quality and sustainability.

Since the middle of the twentieth century the world has witnessed a succession of political and social disruptions. Globalisation, technological advancement, climate change, human migration, war and conflict - all have caused major worldwide upheavals. In this light, it's unsurprising that conservation of rare breed animals has been neglected. Yet the preservation of these genetic resources - this biological diversity - is an essential ingredient of sustainable life on Earth, and not something we can afford to lose. This book challenges often repeated 'facts' about livestock farming, straight from the horse's mouth. In it, rare breeds expert Lawrence Alderson CBE argues for a reasoned and evidence-based approach from political and public circles. Correcting misconceptions as he goes, he recounts the creation and development of the rare breed conservation movement, addresses extinctions and genetic safe-guarding measures, and considers where we go from here. Challenged as we are by climate change, sustainability and feeding the world, perhaps it is these endangered animals that hold the answer - perhaps with them, we can adapt to our changing environment and see a way forward to a more certain future.

Mason's World Dictionary of Livestock Breeds, Types and Varieties, now in its sixth edition, has a long history as a reliable and authoritative source of key livestock breed information. Intended as a list of livestock names and synonyms for breeds, groups, types and varieties worldwide, the dictionary aims to include all names found in the literature, 'defining' each breed or type with a brief indication of identifying characteristics, uses and source of origin. Expanded into a new edition, this established and trusted resource: Extends coverage to include yak and camelids in addition to the existing cattle, sheep, pigs, goats, horses, asses and water buffalo.Features well over 10,000 entries and cross-references on breeds, sub-breeds, types, varieties, strains and lines of species.Covers newly created and now-recognised local breeds documented over the past two decades. An important updated work, Mason's Dictionary forms a useful reference for livestock breeders and academics interested in breeds, as well as national and international organizations with interests in livestock.

Reproductive Technologies in Animals provides the most updated and comprehensive knowledge on the various aspects and applications of reproductive technologies in production animals as well as companion, wild, exotic, and laboratory animals and birds. The text synthesizes historical information and recent discoveries, while dealing with economical and geographical issues related to the implementation of the same technologies. It also presents the effects of reproductive technology implementation on animal welfare and the possible threat of pathogen transmission. Reproductive Technologies in Animals is an important resource for academics, researchers, professionals in public and private animal business, and students at the undergraduate and graduate levels, as it gives a full and detailed first-hand analysis of all species subjected to the use of reproductive technologies.

Building on the successful structure of the first edition, the second edition of Reproductive Technologies in Farm Animals has been totally updated and revised to provide an up to date account of the key techniques employed in manipulating reproduction in farm animals, including beef and dairy cattle, pigs, sheep, goats, buffaloes, camelids, horses and poultry. A classic introductory text to the subject, the book is based on a comprehensive review of the current literature. It: - outlines different agricultural systems and explores the ethical implications of modern farming methods; - details the many new developments, including the commercial application of sexed semen and large-scale application of in vitro produced cattle embryos; - provides a valuable synopsis of current and future reproductive technologies, such as cloning and the production of transgenic animals. This text remains key reading for students in animal science, agriculture, veterinary medicine and biology, and veterinary practitioners and farmers who wish to keep updated on developments in techniques that may be useful in their daily practice.

This book describes the methodology for predicting the genetic merit of animals in the context of genetic improvement in an animal breeding programme. Information on an animal and its relatives, on either the characteristic to be improved or from other traits, can be used to predict the animal's genetic merit, taking account of the relationships between measurements and the economic values of traits. The methodology is developed from first principles, without unnecessary detail or complexity, and all the required statistical and mathematical concepts are fully described in the book. The text discusses the methods for combining different sources of information and illustrates their use with examples of breeding programmes in cattle, sheep, pigs and poultry. A series of questions with detailed answers is included in the book, to help reinforce the ideas and provide some practical experience in the prediction of genetic merit. The text is aimed at final year undergraduate and first year postgraduate students of quantitative genetics and animal breeding.

Every cattle farmer -- from the keeper of a family milk cow to the rancher overseeing a large herd -- will gain confidence and control by becoming more knowledgeable about calving. Healthy pregnancies, safe births, and thriving calves are critical to every cattle operation, and in remote farm locations, the veterinarian is not always readily available. Even if the vet is nearby, the farm's finances will be healthier if the farmer can oversee most of the calving process.
Heather Smith Thomas, an expert on livestock with decades of firsthand experience, covers every routine situation likely to arise before, during, and after calving. And when the calving process is out of the ordinary, Thomas guides the farmer through pregnancy problems, difficult deliveries, recognizing when to call in a vet, and postpartum complications. Her thorough coverage of what to expect in every situation gives farmers the knowledge they need to care personally for their cows.
The second half of the book is dedicated to ensuring that every calf gets off to a healthy start. Thomas helps farmers work with cows reluctant to nurse, substitute mothers, and frail calves. A complete chapter on calfhood illnesses explains warning signs and offers tips on prevention and treatment.
As people return to farming in growing numbers, the demand for safe, humane livestock knowledge continues to increase. Farmers will turn to this reliable volume again and again as they welcome each new calf.

Providing a review of the recent advances and technologies in the rapidly expanding field of genetics, embryology and molecular biology, this book also investigates the possibilities for future research and development. There are sections covering manipulation of the embryo, and the mapping and engineering of the genome. Topics discussed range from nuclear transfer to the possibilities and techniques involved in the development of xenotransplantation.

Involvement with equine reproduction is very common for the veterinarian in practice, and there is enormous demand for continuing education, particularly in the light of recent changes in science and practice, such as the routine use of ultrasound, improved standards of foal care, and the importance of artificial insemination. The 22 contributing authors, an international blend of specialist equine practitioners and university clinicians, provide by means of superbly illustrated questions and full explanatory answers, a comprehensive, up-to-date, enjoyable and easily read source of information on equine reproduction. Over 30 cases concern the use of ultrasound in the management of the broodmare, some 50 cases cover foal care and common medical /surgical conditions, and there are over 30 cases on the stallion and artificial insemination, plus rarer conditions such as dystocia and foaling trauma. The random order of the cases and the self-assessment format, enable readers to think fully about a problem and devise a solution, just as they would in their daily work. The book appeals equally to veterinarians in training, in practice and in preparation for higher qualifications.

With 3000 new references added since the first edition, this book gives the information necessary to produce embryos totally through in vitro techniques. It shows the commercial applications of embryo and oocyte research. Cattle remain at the forefront of many new developments in reproductive technology and what can be done for the cow today will later be applicable to other farm livestock and perhaps humans. This new edition reviews the considerable advances and issues in embryo production technology, based on reports since the first edition in 1994. This is a must have volume for those who own the first edition, and in itself an incredibly informative text.

The poultry industry continues to expand in the warm regions of the world at a much faster rate than in temperate zones. Not only can it be quickly and easily developed in these hot climates but poultry meat and eggs can serve as important sources of animal protein in those areas of the world that have protein insufficiency. Fully revised and updated, this new edition describes how the detrimental effects of heat stress can be reduced through the manipulation of housing, breeding, nutrition and management, and includes new contributions on controlled-environment housing, waterfowl, and breeding fast-growing broilers.

Poultry are farmed and are important sources of protein throughout the world. All students of agriculture are likely to be required to study poultry science to at least an introductory level. However, hitherto there has been no suitable textbook serving the needs of students taking a general introductory course in poultry science. This book aims to fill this gap. It explains the science underlying the productive processes of growth, reproduction and incubation. The applications of nutrition and breeding techniques are described. The book covers all the commercially important poultry species, including turkeys, quail, guinea fowls, ducks and geese, but the main emphasis is on the domestic fowl. The overall purpose is to provide the student with an understanding of the characteristics and physiological responses of domesticated poultry, with particular reference to production. The emphasis is on modelling responses rather than on biochemical and hormonal processes. The author stresses basic concepts and models, rather than practical production systems, so that the book should have worldwide applicability. The book represents a key text for degree and advanced diploma courses in agriculture.

Mason's World Encyclopedia of Livestock Breeds and Breeding describes breeds of livestock worldwide as well as a range of breed-related subjects such as husbandry, health and behaviour. This definitive and prestigious reference work presents easily accessible information on domestication (including wild ancestors and related species), genetics and breeding, livestock produce and markets, as well as breed conservation and the cultural and social aspects of livestock farming. Written by renowned livestock authorities, these volumes draw on the authors' lifelong interest and involvement in livestock breeds of the world, presenting a unique, comprehensive and fully cross-referenced guide to cattle, buffalo, horses, pigs, sheep, asses, goats, camelids, yak and other domesticants. Volume 1: contains asses, camelids, cattle, goats, horses and pigs Volume 2: contains sheep, water buffalo, yak and other livestock Coverage: Breed descriptions: including groups, types and varieties, history and links between groups, livestock products and trends for creating new breeds Wild species: ancestral and relatives, potential domesticants and hybridization Humans and breeds: spread of domestication, transhumance and pastoralism, social and cultural influences, suitability of different groups for different human purposes Genetics and Conservation: a dedicated section and glossary of terms Placing breeds in a practical agricultural context, this two volume encyclopedia will be of great value to agriculturalists, breeders, geneticists, biologists, rural historians, conservationists, ecologists, and all those who are interested in the rich diversity of livestock breeds.

The complete guide to choosing and caring for your perfect cat breed! From ancient breeds to modern hybrids, there are a wide range of domestic cat breeds and it may be tricky to choose the right one! This practical illustrated guide will help you explore different cat breeds' characteristics, personalities, and common behavioural problems to ensure a healthy and happy cat. Inside the pages of this guide to cats, you'll discover: - A range of different cat breeds, including Bengal, Siamese, Maine Coon and more! - Each breed profile contains key breed-specific data, such as weight range, accepted coat colours, and grooming requirements - Expert advice on communicating with your cat and top tips on tackling cat behavioural problems, such as ankle-biting or scratching furniture - Concise care programme covering all stages of your cat's life - from establishing a routine to dealing with common feline health problems The Complete Cat Breed Book will help you choose the perfect domestic cat for you and your family. From the gentle, calm and friendly Ragdoll to the curious and intelligent Russian Blue - explore over 140 of the world's best-loved felines. This comprehensive cat book includes a profile for each of the different breeds, which outlines the breed's history, characteristics, and beautiful photographs. Once you have chosen a feline companion, peruse the chapters on cat care. Explore practical advice and tips on the essential aspects of feline health, from handling and grooming to exercise nutrition and first aid.

Research into equine artificial insemination has recently expanded with increasing horse numbers, the developing leisure interest in horse riding and the realization of the economic advantages of artificial insemination. This book provides a detailed reference book on the subject and covers its historical development, relevant equine physiology, current practices and future possibilities. It is extensively referenced to allow further reading into specialized areas.

In the past decade, a number of advances have been made in genetic engineering as applied to farmed animals. This book has been developed from invited presentations at a conference held in California in August 1997, to address this issue. It is written by representatives from the leading laboratories involved in attempts to improve agriculturally important mammals, poultry and fish. Current knowledge, methodology, technical improvements and successes in the applications of transgenic technology to a range of animals which are important in agriculture are brought together for the first time under one cover. This book is essential reading for research workers in animal genetics, breeding and biotechnology.

This comprehensive research book represents the first complete integration of current knowledge in this area. It addresses issues associated with poultry breeding particularly by examining quantitative and molecular genetics and the uses of transgenic technology. A special section covers the important area of disease resistance and transmission

This practical research text provides an invaluable resource for all animal and veterinary scientists designing, analysing and interpreting results from nutrition and feed experiments in pigs and poultry. The emphasis throughout is on practical aspects of designing nutrition experiments. The book builds on the basics and proceeds to describe the limitations of experiment design involving different ingredients. It goes on to describe the characterization of experimental diets including ingredient selection, composition and the minimum proximate analysis required. The text details measurements and the tools available for understanding diverse data sets, data analysis and eventual publication of the research. This fully balanced and extensively referenced, yet practical, text is an invaluable resource to all animal, veterinary and biomedical scientists involved in the designing of nutrition experiments in pigs and poultry, and the publication of their research.