They deserve luxury life if one can afford it, after all they are man's best friend and can lay their life for their household.

Dogs do everything to maintain their body, and if there is excess nutrition or vitamins, they reproduce.

In the wild dog pack, one or two alpha bitches will cycle, while the rest do not. There may be 4 or more females, but their ovaries will stay in anestrus (quiet ovary) and out of heat. This is good – the best genetics will breed while the rest contribute to feeding. Skipping heats can send normal adult bitches into anestrus, as well.

Signs Of Infertility



Failure to copulate (i.e., an inability to successfully mate with a male dog)
Normal copulation without subsequent pregnancy
Too frequent cycling
Failure to cycle
Absence of heat cycles
Prolonged time between heat cycles (prolonged inter-estrous interval)
Abnormally frequent heat cycles (inter-estrous interval of 4 months of less between heats)
Silent heats (no obvious outward signs of vulvar swelling or bleeding)
Split heats
Failure to achieve a tie during mating
Failure to carry a pregnancy to term
Reabsorption or mummification of puppies
Abortion

Causes of infertility in Female dogs

Fertility requires a normal heat cycle and ovulation of normal eggs (ova) into a healthy reproductive tract, followed by fertilization of those eggs by normal sperm that are successfully introduced into the female.

There must be successful implantation of the embryos in the uterine lining, normal development of the fetuses, successful maintenance of the pregnancy and a successful delivery of live puppies.

These are the most common causes of infertility in female dogs.

Improper Breeding Management

This is most common cause of infertility in female dogs and it include failure of the dog owner to properly detect and assess the progress of the bitch’s heat (estrus) cycle, insemination at the wrong time and miscalculating the appropriate number of breedings to be accomplished per estrus cycle.

Silent heats, split heats, abnormally long heats, missed heats and irregular heats all occur in female dogs and can contribute to breeding management timing errors.



Infectious, Anatomical, Hormonal Or Other/Miscellaneous Causes

This is another common cause of infertility in female dogs

Infections of the vagina or uterus do prevent conception thus preventing the bitch from carrying her litter to term.

Vaginal infections (vaginitis) are usually caused by bacteria especially Brucella canis.

Brucellosis is a venereal disease that causes infertility in female dogs by either preventing conception or causing spontaneous abortion.

Infection with the canine herpesvirus can also lead to infertility.

Uterine infections can contribute to infertility, such as endometritis, pyometra/pyometritis and metritis.



Anatomical causes of infertility in female dogs are not common, but they do occur especially congenital strictures or constrictions inside the vaginal canal, and benign or malignant tumors. These prevent movement of sperm from the vagina through the cervix and into the uterus.

Blockage of the oviducts with tumors or masses can prevent ovulated eggs from successfully uniting with sperm thus leading to infertility in female dogs.
Continue reading@http://petsarena.com.ng/2017/06/infertility-in-female-dogs-signs-causes-and-treatment/

Unemployed people feeding fat from the nations resources

Beware of these rogues marauding themselves as APDA, after depleting the nations resources they are coming back to steal directly from people in the guise of registration/membership fee.They should go and revive back PDP. Shameless people!

Ayam Cemani, also known as “Lamborghini of poultry”, is one of the most expensive chickens in the world with a single bird costing up to $2,500.
The Indonesian chicken takes ‘dark’ into an entirely different realm. Their feathers are black. Their skin is black. The muscles, combs,bones and internal organs are all black.

The birds have been known to carry a high value in Indonesia, where they are believed to have some mystical powers. In this region, it is believed that the blackness of the Cemani makes it an ideal bridge between the human and the supernatural world.


Their beautiful, ink-colored feathers also are highly prized because of their shimmer and metallic, colorful sheen.

"Ayam" is the Indonesian word for chicken, while "Cemani" means "completely black" in Javanese the language of the people from the central and eastern part of the island of Java. The breed was imported into Europe in 1998 and is related to the Swedish Black Chicken.

Ayam Cemani are friendly birds, and the hens lay about 60 to 100 cream-colored eggs in their first year. A typical laying cycle lasts for about 20 to 30 eggs, then the hen will stop laying for three to six months. The eggs are unusually large in proportion to the size of the hen’s body.
Despite their hypnotic otherworldly beauty Ayam Cemani are usually hardy, low maintenance, and by disposition easy to handle.



WHY ARE AYAM CEMANI BLACK?

The cause of the chicken's internal blackness is a genetic condition known as fibromelanosis which is caused by a mutation that affects how pigment-producing cells work.

Several years ago, Leif Andersson, a Swedish geneticist at Uppsala found a gene called endothelian-3 (EDN3), which they discovered to be involved in the regulation of melanocyte cells which produce pigments.

They found around 10 times as much EDN3 was expressed in the skin of adult black chickens than in other breeds.

The cause of the chicken's blackness is a genetic condition known as fibromelanosis which is caused by a mutation that affects how pigment-producing cells work



Price of Ayam Cemani

According to Phoenix New Times, a pair of Ayam Cemani retails for $5000, which makes it go for $2500 per bird. This is equivalent to buying some fairly used car.
Source:http://petsarena.com.ng/2016/07/meet-ayam-cemani-the-luxury-chicken-that-goes-for-the-price-of-a-car/

Ticks are the tiny parasites, which look like a spider. They are a part of the arachnid family. They attach themselves to the body of human or animal and sucks blood. They are usually present in fur of various animals, especially dogs and cats. These tiny parasites are mostly active during warm weather, like summers or spring.


Home Remedies for Ticks

It becomes very upsetting, when our pets are attacked with ticks and fleas. Various lotions and creams are available in the market to get rid of ticks. But, they might not be as effective as home remedies.



Aromatherapy Oil
Essential oils, like basil, lemon, cinnamon, cedar, lavender, and pennyroyal are natural repellent for ticks. For removing ticks, prepare a mixture of any three oils. Mix one drop each of the three oils chosen and pure almond oil. Stir it well, and soak a cloth in it. Wrap this cloth on your pet. This remedy also helps in removing ticks from human skin. Just apply it on the skin.

Citrus
Citrus is abundantly found in oranges and lemon. All you need to do is to prepare natural repellent oil from these citrus fruits. Take out peels of lemon or orange and boil them. Let it cool down naturally. Apply it on the affected area of pets.

Note- This remedy is not suitable for cats as they do not like citrus fragrances.

You can also add juice of lemon or orange in a cup of water. Allow it to boil for some time. In the solution, add 5-15 drops of lemongrass oil. Shake it well and let it cool down. Apply it gently on the affected area.

Combs
Combs are the cheapest and easiest remedy against ticks. Whenever you return from a morning walk, do not forget to comb your pet. Combing once in a day helps in removing ticks, crawling on pet’s fur. Combs will surely sweep off ticks and prevent irritation.

Neem Oil
Neem oil is the most common oil for removing ticks from pet. The anti-bacterial and antiseptic properties of neem oil are meant to fight against harmful ticks. All you are required to do is to pour a few drops of neem oil on your palm and gently rub it on the affected region.

You can also prepare a spray with the help of organic neem oil. You have to mix ½ ounce of organic neem oil with ½ or ¼ ounce of mild detergent or soap. Stir it well and add this solution to two cups of water. If you want a stronger solution, mix 2 ml soap with two cups of water. Then, add 5 ml neem oil to it. Fill it in a spray bottle and use it immediately.

Neem oil is also helpful in removing ticks from human. Just apply a few drops of neem oil gently on the skin, especially covering the affected area.

Caution: Neem oil is not suitable for cats.

Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is also a beneficial remedy for removing ticks. You can prepare a spray with the help of apple cider vinegar. Pour 8 ounce of apple cider vinegar in a bowl. Add 4 ounce of warm water in it. Stir it well adding half teaspoon each of salt and baking soda. Fill the solution in a spray bottle and shake it well before use.

You can also use apple cider vinegar with lavender oil for removing ticks. Mix 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar in one cup of water. Add 15 drops of lavender oil in it. Mix it well and apply it on your pet’s fur.

It can also be used with neem oil. Take 500 ml water and add 4 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar to it. Stir the mixture well adding two tablespoons of neem oil. Apply this solution on dogs to kill ticks. You can also spray this mixture on curtains, walls, and carpets.

Lemon Juice
The citrus acid, present in lemon, helps in removing ticks naturally. You just have to use a fresh lemon against ticks. Squeeze out some fresh lemon juice directly on ticks or affected area of pet.

You can also prepare a spray with ingredients, like lemon juice, peppermint oil, and citrus oil. Mix all the substances equally and spray it on required places.

You can also prepare a disinfectant solution for bathing your pet, with the help of lemon juice. Squeeze out the juice of lemon in a cup of water. Also add peels and pulp in the water. Put it on simmer for a few hours. Pour this solution in regular bath water.

You can slice a lemon and put it in a bowl of boiling water. Leave it overnight. Dip a sponge in the solution and apply it on troubling area of your pet.

Cedar Oil Spray
To get rid of ticks, use a cedar oil spray. Cedar oil acts as a repellent to harmful ticks. Use cedar oil spray, once in a day. Apply it directly on pet’s face, collar, and tummy area. This will surely drag out ticks from pet’s fur.

Vegetable Oil
Vegetable oils are rich in sulphur, which acts as a natural repellent for ticks. You have to mix two teaspoons of vegetable oil with 10 drops of peppermint essential oil. Add one teaspoon of dish washing liquid. Stir the mixture well. Apply it on pet’s body. Do not apply near eyes, ears, or mouth. For best results, practise this method once a week.

Vaseline
It is very simple to use Vaseline to remove ticks. Just take some Vaseline in your palm and rub it gently on pet’s fur, covering the infected area. Vaseline suffocates the ticks, and they will die. After applying Vaseline, comb pet’s fur. This method will remove ticks easily.

Garlic
Garlic is a strong repellent for ticks. . Dogs cannot take raw garlic because it can cause anaemia or damage red blood cells in dogs. Dogs should be served with food and soups, containing garlic.

You can also use garlic powder in place of raw garlic. Simply add 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder per pound of regular dog food.

Baking Soda
Baking soda is a natural remedy for removing ticks from pet’s body. To use baking soda against ticks, you need to mix half teaspoon each of baking soda and salt. Add this dry mixture to four ounces of apple cider vinegar. Pour this mixture in a spray bottle, filled with 4 ounce of warm water. Spray it on pets.

Caution: While spraying it, ensure that it does not reach the pet’s eyes.

You can also make a paste by adding little quantity of water in two tablespoons of baking soda. Apply it directly on problematic area.


Eucalyptus Oil
Eucalyptus oil is very effective against ticks. To prepare eucalyptus spray, you have to boil 15-20 leaves of eucalyptus in approximately 1 litre water. Let it boil for 10 minutes. After boiling, let it cool down at room temperature. Strain the solution in a spray bottle. Use the solution to kill ticks.

You can also make spray by using eucalyptus oil. You are required to fill a spray bottle with 4 ounces of distilled water. Add 10 drops of eucalyptus oil in it. Shake it well before use.

Liquid Dish Detergent
Continue reading@http://petsarena.com.ng/2017/06/home-remedies-for-control-of-ticks/

[url]Introduction[/url]

Black pepper(Piper nigrum L.), belongs to the family Piperaceae. Black pepper Black pepper is called iyere in Yoruba and uziza in Igbo.

It is obtained from the perennial climbing vine, Piper nigrum which originated from the tropical forests of Western Ghats of South India. India accounts for 54% of the total area under pepper in the world but its share of production is only 26.6 %.It is a climbing evergreen plant and grows to a height of 10 m or more.

The vines branch horizontally from the modes and do not attain length, but the fully-grown vines completely cover the standard presenting the appearance of bush.

The leaves are broadly lanceolate, but wide variations occur in leaf shape and are arranged alternately. The inflorescence is a catkin produced at the nodes opposite to the upper leaves.

The fruit is a single seeded berry, which has a thin,soft pericarp surriounding the seed. It takes approximately six months to mature after flowering. Sometimes, spike shedding occurs to the extent of 14 to 65 % causing considerable loss.



Health Benefits Of Black Pepper

Improves Nutrient Absorption

The piperine in black pepper enhances the bioavailability of various nutrients such as vitamins A and C, selenium, beta-carotene, and others, thereby improving your overall health. Bioavailability refers to the amount of a nutrient or supplement that is absorbed by the body.

Enhances Digestion

Black pepper stimulates the taste buds and increases the secretion of hydrochloric acid in the stomach, which in turn aids proper digestion

By improving digestion, black pepper relieves issues like colic, bloating, indigestion, flatulence, and constipation. It also has antibacterial qualities that help treat intestinal diseases caused by bacteria.

Stimulates Appetite

Besides adding flavor to your food and promoting digestion, black pepper works as an appetite stimulant. Research has shown that black pepper helps improve the appetite through olfactory stimulation. This makes it an excellent, simple remedy for those with a poor appetite.

Facilitates Weight Loss

Black pepper also can help you lose weight. The outer layer of peppercorns contains phytonutrients that encourage the breakdown of fat cells.

Heals Arthritis

The piperine present in black pepper is highly beneficial for treating arthritis because of its anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic properties.

It also improves circulation, thereby preventing or reducing joint pain caused by poor circulation.

Fights Cancer and Prevents Other Diseases

Black pepper has antioxidant qualities that fight cancer, especially colon and breast cancer. Its polyphenol content protects against high blood pressure, diabetes.

Relieves Gas

Being a carminative, black pepper relieves stomach gas and prevents gas formation.

Clears Congestion

Black pepper clears up a stuffy nose and congestion as it helps loosen phlegm. It also has antimicrobial properties, which is why black pepper is included in various cough and cold remedies.

Works as a Natural Antidepressant



The piperine in black pepper acts as an antidepressant by increasing serotonin production. .

Piperine also increases beta-endorphins in the brain and promotes mental clarity. Endorphins work as natural painkillers and mood elevators.

Treatment Of Teeth and Gum Infections



Since black pepper reduces pain and inflammation, you can use it with salt to reduce gum inflammation along with problems like bad breath and bleeding gums

Climatic Requirement

Black Pepper is a humid tropic plant, which requires adequate rainfall and humidity. It loves extremely humid climates where temperature ranges between 10° and 40°C. A well-distributed annual rainfall of 125-200 cm is considered ideal for black pepper cultivation.

Soil Requirement

Black pepper can be grown in a wide range of soils like clay loam, red loam, sandy loam and lateritic soils with a pH of 4.5 to 6.0. It however thrives best on virgin soil rich in organic matter.

Varieties

Majority of the cultivated types of pepper are monoecious. Over 75 cultivars of pepper are being cultivated in India. Karimunda is the most popular of all the established cultivars of pepper among the growers of Kerala. The other important cultivars are Kottanadan, Narayakkodi, Aimpiriyan, Neelamundi, Kuthiravally, Balancotta, Kalluvally, Malligesara and Uddagare.

Cropping method

Pepper can be grown as monocrop or as a mixed crop. Large scale cultivation of pepper as monocrop is done on hill slopes by clearing jungle lands and planting standards for the vines to climb on.

As a mixed crop, it is grown with arecanut, coconut, mango, jack etc. where these trees serve as standards for the pepper vines. Pepper is also a suitable intercrop in coffee estates where the shade trees as good standards for them.

Propagation



Black pepper can be propagated using the seeds but the disadvantage is that only fresh seeds are germinated and seeds are viable for very short period.

In commercial farming, black pepper is better propagated using cuttings raised mainly from the runner shoots. Cuttings from the lateral branches are seldom used, since in addition to reduction in the number of fruiting shoots, the vines raised from them are generally short lived and bushy in habit. However, rooted lateral branches are useful in raising pepper in pots.

The runner shoots are separated from the vine in February-March and after trimming the leaves, cuttings of 2 to 3 nodes each are planted either in nursery beds or polythene bags filled with fertile soil. Cuttings from middle 1/3 of the shoots are desirable as they are high yielding.

Adequate shade is to be provided and irrigated frequently. The cuttings will strike roots and become ready for planting in May-June.


Planting and Spacing Distance

When pepper is grown as a mono crop, pits of 0.5 m cube are dug at a spacing of 2.5 x 2.5 m and Erythrina stem cuttings of 2m length or its two years old seedlings are planted on receipt of early rains. With the onset of regular rains, 2 or 3 rooted cuttings are planted around the base of the standard nearly 30 cm away.
When cultivated as a mixed crop with coconut and arecanut which have a thick intercoiled root net close to the trunk, pepper cuttings should be planted 100 to 120 cm away from the tree trunk which are about 8 to 9 m high.

Initially, the vines may be allowed to climb on a stick or pole about 2 m tall, which is tied to the trunk in a slanting position. After one year, when the vine has attained sufficient length it may be separated from the temporary stake and the lower leaves may be nipped off. A narrow trench of 15 cm deep and wide should be prepared from the base of the vine to the base of the tree trunk. The vine may be placed in the trench in such a way that the growing tips it tied to the trunk while the other parts of vine is covered with the soil. A small ridge is formed over the trench which should not be disturbed while doing intercultural operations to the palm.

Black Pepper Plant Care

Humidity

Peppercorn plant loves humidity, the more the better. For this, mist the plant often with soft water. If you’re growing black pepper in pots place them on saucer filled with water, this will also increase the humidity level.



Mulching

Do mulching with organic matter to prevent moisture and weeds.

During the second year, practically the same cultural practices are repeated. However, lopping of the standards should be done carefully from the fourth year onwards, not only to regulate the height of the standards, but also to shade the pepper vines optimally. Excessive shading during flowering and fruiting encourages pest infestation.

Pruning

Pruning the top of the vine after it has reached the required height i.e. 6 m should be done when it is cultivated on standards like silver oak, coconut, arecanut for convenience of picking.

From the fourth year, usually two diggings are given one during May-June and the other towards the end of southwest monsoon in October-November. Growing cover crops like Calapogonium mucanoides, Mimosa invisa are also recommended under West Coast conditions.





Manures and fertilizer

Apply about 10 kg of well rotten cattle manure or compost is given in April-May. Fertilizers to supply 100g N, 40g P2O5 and 140g K2O per standard for vines of three years and above may be applied annually in two split doses in April-May and August-September.

During the first year of planting, 1/3 of the above dose and in the second year 2/3 of the above dose may be given. Manures are applied around the vines at a distance of 30 cm and forked into the soil. Lime may be applied at the rate of 500 g per standard during April in alternate years
Continue reading@http://theprofarmer.com/black-pepper-farming/

Coypu also known as nutria is a large semi-aquatic rodent which is a native of South America. It was introduced to the British Isles in 1929 when fur farms were set up in Sussex, Hampshire, Devon and Norfolk. The farms were sited mainly in lowland areas which are rich in rivers and streams.

During the 1930's coypus escaped from captivity and despite repeated attempts to control them, they have adapted well to their new British habitat, breeding extremely successfully in the countryside of East Anglia. Today the Coypu, along with the Grey Squirrel, are a constant reminder of the folly of introducing foreign species into a new country without fully considering the consequences.



Quick Stats

Common Name: Nutria

Scientific Name: Myocastor Coypus

Type: Mammals

Diet: Omnivores

Group Name: Colony

Average Life Span In The Wild: 8 To 10 Years

Average Life Span In Captivity: Up To 10 Years

Size: Head And Body, 17 To 25 In; Tail, 10 To 16 In

Weight: Adult males about 7kg , female 6kg

Colour: The coypu's fur adapted to keep it warm and dry in winter. Long, coarse guard hairs conceal and protect the soft velvety under fur. This under fur, known as nutria (Spanish for otter) in the fur trade, is the reason why the coypu was bred in this country. The general colour of the coypu's guard hairs is dark reddish or yellowish brown, masking the slate grey nutria. The tip of its muzzle and chin have white hairs and whiskers.
Breeding Season: Breeds all through the year.

Gestation Period: 4 1/2months.

No of young/litter: 2 - 9 per litter.

Food: This animal eats plants, including; grasses, sedges, reeds, water parsnip, reed -mace and even water lilies.
Predators: The young are taken by foxes, stoats, dogs etc.

Distribution: Mostly in South America

Related Species: beaver and otter



A[b]ppearance[/b]

The coypu resembles a very large rat, or a beaver with a small tail. Adults are typically 4–9 kg in weight, and 40–60 cm (16–24 in) in body length, with a 30- to 45-cm (12- to 18-in) tail.

Coypu weighs up to 16 to 17 kg (35 to 37 lb), although adults usually average 4.5 to 7 kg (9.9 to 15.4 lb).

They have coarse, darkish brown outer fur with soft dense grey under fur, also called the nutria.

Its body is highly arched, and the head is large and almost triangular. The ears and eyes are small and are located in the upper part of the head. The incisors are broad, with orange-pigmented anterior surfaces. The legs are short.

The hind feet are much longer than the forefeet, and contain five digits; the first four are connected by webbing, and the fifth is free.

The forefeet have four long, flexible, unwebbed digits and a vestigial thumb.

The tail is long and rounded. Females have four pairs of thoracic mammae that are situated well up on the sides of the body.

The distinct features of coypu are a white patch on the muzzle, webbed hind feet, and large, bright orange-yellow incisors.

The nipples of female coypu are high on her flanks, to allow their young to feed while the female is in the water.



Habi­tat

Coypu lives in marshes, lake edges, and slug­gish streams, es­pe­cially in areas with emer­gent or suc­cu­lent veg­e­ta­tion along the banks.

They create burrows around rivers. They spend a great deal of their time in the water but they will sleep and take care of their young in their burrows along the rivers. They are nocturnal so during the day they tend to be in the burrow staying cool. They will come out at night to play, socialize, and to find food.

Life Cycle

Coypu breed all year round and are very prolific. Males reach sexual maturity between 4 and 9 months, while females reach sexual maturity between 3 and 9 months. Sexual maturity depends on habitat quality.

Coypus can live up to six years in captivity, but individuals uncommonly live past three years old; according to one study, 80% of coypus die within the first year, and less than 15% of a wild population is over three years old

With a gestation period of only 130 days, in one year, an adult nutria can produce two litters and be pregnant for a third. The number of young in a litter ranges from 1-13 with an average of 4.5 young.

Females can become pregnant a day after she gives birth to her young.

The young nutria at birth are fully furred and the eyes are open and equally with teeth. Newborn nutria feed on vegetation within hours and will nurse for 7-8 weeks.



Feeding

Besides breeding quickly, each coypu consumes large amounts of vegetation. An individual consumes about 25% of its own weight every day. They eat the base of the above-ground stems of plants, and often dig through the organic soil for roots and rhizomes to eat.

Nutria are strict vegetarians, consuming their food both on land and water, where they shove aquatic plants to their mouths with their forepaws.They also feast on small creatures such as snails or mussels.
Source:http:[url]//petsarena.com.ng/2017/06/meet-coypu-river-rat-can-swim-5-minutes/[/url]

Avian flu has been confirmed in chickens and geese at a farm in south Norfolk.

The UK's deputy chief veterinary officer said the H5N8 strain had infected around 35 birds at a farm near Diss.

A number of the birds have died and the remaining are to be culled.

A full investigation is under way to find the source of the infection. The risk to the public is said to be low.

The exact location of the outbreak has not been revealed.

But a 3km protection zone and 10km surveillance zone have been put in place around the infected premises.

In February this year, around 23,000 chickens were destroyed at Bridge Farm in Redgrave on the Suffolk and Norfolk border after an outbreak of H5N8 avian influenza virus.

Meanwhile Nigerian government on Friday alerted the public to the outbreak of Avian Influenza or bird flu in the FCT and six states which are Bauchi, Kano, Katsina, Nasarawa, Plateau and Kaduna
Source:http://theprofarmer.com/bird-flu-outbreak-confirmed-farm-norfolk/

A 32-year-old man was fined S$4,800 on Thursday for keeping and later abandoning an unlicensed dog.

Joseph Tang Yew Liang pleaded guilty to abandoning the cream-coloured mongrel named Momo at an empty space in Ubi in November 2016. The dog, which was unlicensed, was found the following day and has since been re-homed.

The court heard that a year before the incident, Tang had adopted Momo from his ex-boss, who owned a shop located in Ubi. Tang did not obtain a licence from the Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority (AVA) to keep the dog, said AVA prosecutor Yap Teck Chuan.

He said that in October 2016, Tang became unable to take care of Momo and another dog named Orni. This was due to financial problems and because Tang’s rent was due to expire.

Tang later took both dogs to a boarding facility while he looked for suitable adopters. Two to three days after that, he said, Tang checked Momo out of the facility and abandoned it at an empty space beside his ex-boss’s shop in Ubi.

Tang was fined S$4,000 for abandoning the dog. He also pleaded guilty to another charge of keeping Momo without a licence, for which he was fined S$800.

Mr Yap had initially asked the court for a S$5,000 fine for Tang on the abandonment charge, noting that this would act not just as a “specific deterrent” for him, but also as a more general deterrent to other members of the public. He added that such cases of abandonment are also “very hard to detect”, and it was only “by chance” that AVA had received feedback from a member of the public who knew Tang and his act.

For abandoning the dog, Tang could have been fined up to S$10,000, jailed up to a year, or both. For keeping it without a licence, he could have been fined up to S$5,000.
Source:http:[url]//petsarena.com.ng/2017/06/singaporean-man-bags-s4800-fine-keeping-abandoning-unlicensed-mongrel/[/url]

Something must be behind it,have seen children from same parents all born with dreads. I notice that because of their belief, some parents who attend these white garment churches even allow the hair of their new born to matt so as to be dada.

The most advanced grain harvesting technology from front to back is featured in the combines and headers John Deere is introducing for model year 2018 production. This includes four new S700 Combine models (S760, S770, S780 and S790) that offer producers significant improvements in "smart" technology, improved operator comfort and better data, along with the 700C/FC Series Corn Heads and 700D Drapers for more efficient grain harvesting.

Building on the proven field performance of the S600 Combines introduced in 2012, the new S700 Combines incorporate the latest in automated harvesting technology. Many of these changes make it easier on the operator by allowing the combine to make needed adjustments automatically, on the go.

"These new S700 Combines are a culmination of enhancements to our previous model that optimize and automate harvesting operations for coarse and small grains," says Kevin Ripple, marketing manager for harvest at John Deere. "We've enhanced the overall intelligence of these combines by automating more adjustments and calibration tasks, and improved the lifetime durability and productivity of front-end equipment to create a high performance harvesting solution unlike any other on the market today."

To make it easier for operators to maximize the performance of their new S700 Combine, John Deere introduces the Combine Advisor package. Combine Advisor incorporates seven technologies to help operators set, optimize and automate the combine for the most effective harvesting performance based on their crop and field conditions.

Auto Maintain is a function within Combine Advisor that is supported with ActiveVision cameras. "These cameras give the operator a view into the tailings and clean grain elevators via the display, and analyze the information to maintain optimal threshing performance based on operator set targets," Ripple explains.

Another addition to the S700 Combines is Active Yield technology that automatically calibrates the mass flow sensor. This saves time by eliminating the need for manual calibrations and ensures the best data is collected.

The biggest physical difference customers will see in the S700 Combines compared to previous models is in the cab. This starts with a new state-of-the-art CommandCenter, providing a common user experience across Deere's larger tractor and self-propelled sprayer lines, that emphasizes customization and operator comfort.

Machine performance features of the CommandCenter include a Gen 4 interface and monitor with 4600 processer; CommandArm and multi-function control lever with greater ergonomic design and customizable buttons; premium activation with AutoTrac, RowSense and HarvestDoc; and Extended Monitor and mobile device features. In addition, operators will find set up and start up much quicker and easier, thanks to more intuitive harvest run and setup screens.

The new cabs feature either leather or cloth seats that swivel 7.5 degrees left and 15 degrees right for improved visibility; enhanced seat ventilation for greater comfort; improved seat cushion with optional leather seat; and additional grain tank mirrors for improved visibility of the grain tank.

New corn head & platform, too
Along with the S700 Combines, John Deere is introducing the 700C/FC (folding corn head) Series Corn Heads with the RowMax row unit. The RowMax row unit provides up to a 50 percent increase in the life of the row unit gathering chains and features solid-alloy bushings that reduce pin and bushing wear.

"We've also increased the life of the stalk rolls by up to 25 percent by utilizing a harder material and adding a new wear coating on the front and trailing edges of the blades for increased performance," says Brittney Guidarelli, product manager for front end equipment. "As a result, we've decreased the cost of operation by reducing how frequently wear parts need to be replaced. Producers will experience a savings of up to $20,000 over five years compared to previous models."

The 700C/FC Series Corn Heads are available in 6- to 18- row models, in 20-, 22- and 30-inch row widths. The StalkMaster stalk-chopping option is available on all models. Folding corn heads are available on 8- and 12-row units, which allow operators to spend more time harvesting and less time and hassle disconnecting, trailering and reconnecting heads when moving from field to field.

For corn growers harvesting high moisture corn, there are several enhancements available specifically tailored to better handle this demanding crop. High moisture corn enhancements on the corn head include an auger floor insert to ease crop handling and a lower auger height to minimize crop damage.

For small grains, Deere introduces the 700D Rigid Draper, which provides a 20 percent increase in capacity in tough harvesting conditions over the previous model. The 700D features a top crop auger that's 50 percent larger in diameter (now 18 inches) with heavy-duty drives, high-performance gauge wheels, and a new center section seal kit that reduces center section grain losses by up to 45 percent in canola.

"The new S700 Combines are ideal for producers who want to get the most out of their combine, regardless of operator experience or changing field conditions, with quick harvest setup and automatic on-the-go adjustments," says Cyndee Smiley Dolan, division marketing manager. "The technology, control and comfort features integrated into this new combine and heads make it the most effective and efficient grain harvesting solution available."
Source:http://theprofarmer.com/john-deere-launches-smarter-s700-combines-front-end-equipment/

Labradoodles are common mixed breed but the Henry County Humane Society never expected to find one abandoned with a heartbreaking note.

One of the shelter’s dog walkers discovered the abandoned pup inside the building that will become the Humane Society’s new shelter in May 21.

The dog was crammed inside a tiny cage with no food or water — just a note with some of his information.
“In July I’ll have been here three years and I can honestly tell you I’ve never seen anything quite like this,” Tracy Diehl, the manager of the Henry County Humane Society, told TODAY. “Of course, he was scared to death, and he’s still a little nervous, but he’s really doing great.”

“It is very hard for me to leave a home where I am very loved and cherished,” the note concluded. “But I hope I can bring joy to my new family.”

Buddy is on the quick road to recovery and adoption. The shelter has received so many applications they’ve had to stop accepting new submissions and they are currently sorting through the candidates.

They called the potential owners’ current veterinarians to ask if their pets are up-to-date on shots. They also ask about the hopeful owners’ activity level and living environment.

And while Buddy’s situation was so sad, we’re sure this shelter will find a sweet new family that will love and support him.

“The one good thing that’s come out of this is that people are realizing there are great dogs at shelters,” said Diehl. “Please look at your local shelters.”

Diehl explained that once the new facility is complete, they intend to name the dog yard after Buddy.

“Considering how he was crammed in a very small space, we want to name the dog yard after him,” said Diehl. “The dogs will always have a space to run and stretch their legs.”
Source:http://petsarena.com.ng/2017/06/check-heartbreaking-note-left-dog-abandoned-cage/

Police were forced to shoot a huge 13-stone dog after it ripped a woman’s throat out and then stood guard over her body.

The blood-smeared beast, called Raskon, reportedly attacked the 72-year-old woman as she walked through a town.

The breed of dog – known as Kangals – are said to be so vicious they are used in their native Turkey to guard livestock from wolves and even bears.

A witness who saw the attack on Tuesday evening in Frohnstetten, near Lake Constance, in Germany, described the pensioner being torn apart on the ground by the animal.

She said: “I heard screams, saw the woman lying on the ground covered in blood, her whole head in the dog’s mouth.

“The dog would not let go and was shaking her wildly.”

The dog is then said to have lay down next to the victim and snarled at any medics and police trying to approach.

Officers had to unload eight bullets into the animal before it finally stopped moving.

But they were too late to rescue the woman, who died of massive amounts of blood loss at the scene.

Locals directed police to a nearby house that the dog escaped from where they found another Kangal and a mongrel tied up outside.

They shot both dogs before forcing their way into the home that also contained 20 cats.

Erika Schmidt, who owns the house, is said to have arrived home later and was horrified by what had happened.

The 43-year-old said: “I am so sorry at what has happened. I only had him for three weeks but wanted to sell him.”

On May 9, she posted an online advert to sell Raskon that said: “There should be no other dogs or children in the home. He is cuddly but needs a strong hand.”

Ms Schmidt is now facing charges of negligent homicide in the death of the elderly woman.
Source:[url]http://petsarena.com.ng/2017/06/police-shoots-massive-kangal-eight-times-ripped-womans-throat/
[/url]

Chinese brothers run farm housing over 50,000 snakes where staff have to do three months of training before they are employed.

Brothers Yang Xunyi and Yang Xunlun run the 3.3 acre snake farm in Chongqing, in south-west China

It is home to 50,000 snakes, including 30,000 cobras


The farm has 20 workers, all of whom have to go through an intensive three-month training programme before they can work on the site

For most of us, it is the daily commute or a meeting with the boss that is the most stressful part of the working day.

But spare a thought for brothers Yang Xunyi and Yang Xunlun who have to manage a farm of 50,000 snakes on a daily basis.

The pair run a 3.3 acre snake farm, which includes 30,000 cobras in Chongqing, a major city in south-west China



Mr Xunyi, 40, and his younger brother Mr Xunlun have been in charge of the farm for six years.

And it is certainly not for the faint-hearted – Mr Xunyi said he had been bitten multiple times.
‘I have been bitten numerous times, which all happened when I fed them.

‘When you are bitten, you have to squeeze out the poison immediately and wash the wound with a large amount of water.’

He said he treated the wound with his home-made balm and medicines instead of visiting hospital.

The farm has 20 workers, all of whom have to go through an intensive three-month training programme before they are allowed to work on the site.

Their job involves incubating eggs, catching food for the snakes and killing the animals.



The skin of the snakes is then sold and every year, around 500,000 skins are exported from Asia.
Source:[url]
theprofarmer.com/meet-chinese-brothers-run-5000-snake-farm/[/url]

Dangote Group is making a five-year investment of not less than $1 billion to grow and process rice in seven Nigerian states, making sub-Saharan Africa’s biggest importer of the grain closer to its goal of self-sufficiency.

Dangote Rice, an arm of the Lagos-based company, plans to increase cultivation of paddy, or raw rice, to 150 000 hectares (371 000 acres) and harvest an annual 1.7 million metric tons by 2019. Most of the output will be grown by medium and smallholder farmers through an “outgrower scheme” that would see Dangote Rice providing equipment and training, project director Robert Coleman said in an emailed response to questions.

“Ultimately, at harvest, Dangote guarantees to buy the farm produce back from the farmers at an agreed/prevailing market price,” Coleman said Tuesday.

In a bid to boost its food self-sufficiency, Nigeria capitalised the state-owned Bank of Agriculture to lend to farming projects at less than half the commercial rate. Nigeria is also liasing with the African Development Bank and World Bank to provide staple crop-processing zones with the electricity and roads needed to attract more private-sector money.

Dangote group is investing in the northern states of Jigawa, Kano, Zamfara, Niger, Sokoto, Kogi and Adamawa, is also planning to build mills to transform the paddy into an estimated annual 1 million tons of high-quality parboiled rice by 2019. A first set of imported mills is expected to be delivered by early December and be functional by July 2018, Coleman said.
Source:http://theprofarmer.com/dangote-group-invest-1bn-rice-farming/

You are welcome to Nigeria's premier online community for pet owners and lovers who cherish their pets so much.

This community promises to be a hub, community and market place for everything pets.

The arena promises to help pet lovers care for their pets by being a learning and information sharing center.

In this arena pet owner gets information on how to maintain the health of your pet.

In the course of living with your pet,pets arena will give you enough resources that will help you moderate the behavior of your pet so that he becomes a good canine citizen thus safe guarding his life, and equally making him not to be a nuisance to his human community. The arena will give you practical tips to train your dog yourself.

As a living being your pet is bound to be sick from time to time and as the popular axiom that says that prevention is better than cure, the arena give valuable advice on how to keep your dog healthy at all times.

Peradventure your pet comes down with any illness or accident, there are valuable information on pets arena that will help you keep your pet stable before calling your vet.

Feel free to ask our vet any question bothering on the well being of your pet in ask the vet section of the arena. You have the opportunity of connecting to vets, trainers, breeders,groomers in the directory section

In this community you can connect with fellow pet owners, make friends with them chat with them when you create a profile. You can equally bring any of your questions or concerns to the forum.

You can initiate or contribute to any discussion in the forum.

When you create your profile it offers you the opportunity to upload pictures and videos of your pets to the arena.you can equally write any article about your pet in your profile and invite your friends to view.

Pets arena equally offer you the opportunity to acquire any pets from vetted and reputable breeders and dealers. You can as well upload your pets for sale after passing through the sites terms and conditions as a breeder, pet seller, or pet owner.

There is an opportunity for you to get stud for your female pets that is on heat and you can as well make good money from using your dog for stud services .

You can equally adopt any pet and put yours to be adopted by responsible pet lovers.

There is a market place where you can shop quality pet food and accessories at competitive price.

There is an opportunity for you to advertise for any job opening in your clinic, kennel or in our home in the appointment category.

As a pet product marketer or producer there is an opportunity for you to advertise your product in the arena. Your product can be reviewed as well.

All these will certainly increase your visibility, bring more business to you subsequently increasing your profits.
For more visit [url]petsarena.com.ng[/url]

Nigerian government's effort to boost rice production in the country and discourage importation completely is yielding positive results as the nation’s annual rice production has increased to 5.7 million tonnes.

With this development, it is becoming obvious that the nation is inching towards self-sufficiency in rice production and will sufficiently start exporting the commodity to other nations in need of it.

Unlike in 2015 when Nigerians spent not less than N1 billion daily on rice consumption, the spending has drastically reduced in the face of increased consumption due to increased local production.

A report released by Growth and Employment in States (GEMS4), a programme funded by the United Kingdom Department for International Development (DfID), indicated that Nigeria has achieved a total of 5.7 million metric tonnes of milled rice, bringing the nation’s rice production closer to the 7 million projected milled rice requirement.

In the report titled, ‘Mapping of rice production clusters in Nigeria’, GEMS4 revealed that 18 states were selected based on their contribution to national production as per the 2015 Agricultural Production Survey (APS).

It said in the 18 states, rice farming was described as widely spread across 165 clusters and 2,812 sub-clusters.

Considering the value of rice produced locally, it concluded that farmers in the 18 states under consideration have generated an estimated N102.6 billion as additional contribution to Nigeria’s economy through rice production.

The 2016 total paddy production estimate is put at 17.5 million tons with a marketing surplus (after post-harvest losses and domestic use) of 11.4 million tons (equivalent to 5.7 million tons milled equivalent).

“Kebbi State led with 3.56 million metric tons for the wet and dry seasons production combined, followed by Kano at 2.82 million metric tons. Kebbi produced 2.05 million metric tons in the wet season and 1.51 million metric tons in the dry season, while Kano produced 1.86 and 0.96 million metric tons during the wet and dry seasons respectively over the same period under review. However, only 10 of the 18 states were involved in the dry season production, adding the 26.57 per cent of the total production”.


Recently, president of rice farmers association of Nigeria (RIFAN), Alhaji Aminu Goronyo, attributed the nation’s increase in rice production to the CBN’s Anchor Borrowers Programme (ABP), noting that there was a total of 12 million rice producers and 4 million hectares of FADAMA rice land.

Goronyo said that the programme, since inception, had created economic linkage between Small Holder Farmers (SHF) and reputable large-scale processors, thereby increasing agricultural outputs and significantly improving capacity utilisation of processors.

The ABP was launched by President Muhammadu Buhari on November 17, 2015 in Kebbi with the aim of creating a linkage between anchor companies involved in the processing and SHFs of the required key agricultural commodities.

The fund was provided from the N220 billion micro, small and medium enterprises development fund.
Source:http://theprofarmer.com/nigerias-rice-production-rises-5-7m-tonnes/

The local dogs did what they are supposed to do by alerting of an intruder being your dog. That's the territorial instinct at work. You did the right thing by not releasing your dog, because he may contact parvovirus since he is still a puppy. As for fighting, they will not fight him, they will just do the necessary introduction of sniffing their anal regions. Your dog will have bowed to them to tell them that he respects their authority had it been you released from.the leash.
Your dog barked because he feels covered by your presence , it does not have anything to do with dominance or aggressiveness.

Violence has erupted at the All Progressive Congress (APC) primary election holding at Teslim Balogun Stadium in Surulere, Lagos, to select Local Government chairmanship candidates.
Fight broke out in different corners, minutes after the Party’s electoral chairman, Senator Tokunbo Afikuyomi began to announce “consensus” candidates already endorsed by the party.
Supporters of aspirants who lost out got violent and moved toward supporters of those being declared as winner.
Broken bottles, plastic chairs, woods, stones, bottle water and sachet water were some of the weapons used to chase VIP delegates and other supporters out of the venue.
Recall that National Legal Adviser of the APC, Dr Muiz Banire, had raised alarm that the process of primaries was being manipulated through rigging “in favour of certain imposed candidates”.
Banire had also opposed the decision of the Lagos State chapter to conduct primaries election for all the aspirants in a single location.
He lamented that the decision was alien to the party and not in the APC constitution, warning against the holding the exercise in such manner.
In a letter addressed to the State Chairman, Henry Ajomale, Banire stressed that the Local Government Executives were empowered by the APC constitution to designate suitable venues for the exercise.
He said, “As the custodian of the party constitution, It is of utmost necessity for me to say immediately that this will not be in consonant with the letter and the spirit of the constitution.“The (APC) constitution confers the power to designate the venue of such council primaries in the party Executive of the Local Government”.
Banire said in other states, local government primary nelections were never done in centralized locations including Benue State chapter of the APC that recently held its primaries.
He therefore asked the state chairman to comply with the provision of the APC constitution by stopping all arrangements for tomorrow’s centralised primaries and allowed the local government executives to designate venue for the exercise in their respective councils.
The APC legal adviser continued: “I must say that I do not want to believe that the essence of seeking to centralize the conduct of the primaries is to manipulate and rig the process in favour of certain imposed candidates.
“To avoid this, and in line with our great party’s practice of publicizing the conduct of primaries (right from the conduct of primary for presidential election to the primaries for election at the state level – gubernatorial and National assembly), the same tradition must continue with the primaries into local governments.
“I am also aware that the National body is sending monitors while observers are expected at the various venues.
Source:http:[url]//dailypost.ng/2017/05/27/apc-lg-primaries-violence-erupts-teslim-balogun-stadium-venue/[/url]

Each year 4.5 million people in the United States are bitten by dogs, with bites to children accounting for more than half of that upsetting statistic. As education is key to combating any crisis, the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) established National Dog Bite Prevention Week.

Held each third week in May, the observation shines spotlight on actions that can be taken to prevent dog bites, such as the following tips for pet guardians from the American Humane Association:

Rules On Approaching And Handling Dogs

Never approach
an unknown dog, allow him to come to you
a nursing bitch with puppies.
a strange dog that is eating.
A sleeping dog, rather wake him from a distance.
Do not lean over or pick up a strange dog.
Never tease or agitate a strange dog
Don’t pat a dog on the head or the back of the neck
Always be calm and relaxed around dogs.
Avoid hugging and kissing dogs.
Never leave a child unattended with any dog, regardless of the dog’s demeanor.
Teach your children that dogs deserve respect.
Teach your children to never play with any dog in a rough manner.
Pet parents of puppies should teach socialization skills to their young Spot so the dog will feel more at home among other people and pets.
Never put a dog in a situation which will make him or her feel threatened.
Always walk your dog on a leash while in public.
Visit your veterinarian regularly, as a dog who is ill or injured is more apt to strike out at people.
Caution people who approach your dog.
Strangers should always wait before petting any dog in order to give the canine time to familiarize themselves with the unknown person on their terms.


Understand the body language of the dog
Put a safe amount of space between yourself and a dog if you see the following signals indicating that the dog is uncomfortable and might feel the need to bite:

tensed body
stiff tail
pulled back head and/or ears
furrowed brow
eyes rolled so the whites are visible
yawning
flicking tongue
intense stare
backing away


What to do if you think a dog may attack you

If you are suddenly approached by a dog you think may attack you, follow these steps:

Resist the impulse to scream and run away.
Remain motionless, hands at your sides, and avoid eye contact with the dog.
Once the dog loses interest in you, slowly back away until they are out of sight.
If the dog does attack, “feed” them your jacket, purse, bicycle or anything that you can put between yourself and the dog.
If you fall or are knocked to the ground, curl into a ball with your hands over your ears and remain motionless. Try not to scream or roll around.
Drop your hints on other tips on avoiding dog bites.
Source:http://petsarena.com.ng/2017/05/quick-tips-avoidig-dog-bites/

Marginalization of SE affects the whole nation, you may say that suits them after all they didn't invest in Buhari just as Ngige said. The fact remains that when you concentrate amenities in certain towns people will troup to that city leading to population pressure with resultant effects like crime increase, unemployment. When SE gets some of these things people from all parts of the country will go there to work or do business easing the population stress in places like Lagos that has made it hypercompetitve with one of the highest unemployment rates in the country.

Agriculture is one of the world’s least digitised major industries, but this will change as data acquisition, agricultural robotics and analytic companies grow.

A report by technological research company IDTechEx says that many agricultural robotic companies are graduating into the market and are in the process of transforming the value chain of agriculture.

The report, titled 'Agricultural Robots and Drones 2017-2027: Technologies, Markets, Players', shows the investment in nearly 40 select farm data management and analytics companies.

It says that interest in the past three years has risen. Contrary to common perceptions, agricultural is in some areas at the forefront of technology adoption.

Taking autonomous driving as an example, GPS-enabled self- driven tractors have been in use for years in farming.

Indeed, the report predicts that the number of GPS-enabled assets in farming will rise to nearly 1 million by 2024 from 430k in 2016.


Agricultural machinery has drastically evolved over the past century. The report says that the time is now 'ripe' for further automation as cost of sensing and data processing has fallen in recent decades.

IDTechEx forecasts that agricultural robots will become a $12bn industry by 2027.

Despite the strong progress on the machinery side, data and analytics still play a minimal role in traditional agriculture.

Data has been extensively used in R& particularly when it comes to advanced seed and agrochemical production. Nonetheless, it is yet to propagate at scale into farming itself.

The report says that this is about to change, as agricultural robots and drones will help drive a transformation.

Sensor-equipped agricultural robots will autonomously navigate through farms, continuously building up a detailed spatial map of data about specific plants.

An example of such technology can be seen at the agricultural college Harper Adams University. It has successfully drilled an agricultural test site with a self-driving tractor. And in the coming weeks, the project hopes to become the first in the world to plant, tend and harvest a crop by only using autonomous vehicles.


And drones are currently being developed which could detect plant diseases before any visible signs begin to show.


The report says that agricultural machinery may have to undergo a fundamental transfiguration to achieve autonomous machinery: large, fast, and heavy manned machine may have to be replaced with small, slow, and light autonomous robots.


Wireless sensing networks


In parallel to agricultural robotics, wireless sensing networks are also finding market in agriculture.

Agricultural robotics help increase the resolution of the data, elevating the precision levels from a specific farm patch towards specific plants.

For example, a team of researchers are using a pair of robotics platforms and a $20 million grant from the US National Science Foundation to develop a system for identifying crop strains resistant to heat, drought and flood.

The report says that robots intrinsically extend beyond just data acquisition tools in that they can also carry out precision agriculture through site - or plant-specific actions such as precision seed-planting, spraying, weeding, nutrient feeding, and so forth.
Source:[url]theprofarmer.com/agricultural-robotics-become-12bn-industry-2027-research-group/[/url]

Nigerian Air Force (NAF) recently completed the training of 12 personnel of its Air Provost Specialty in advanced dog handling techniques to enhance their proficiency in carrying out criminal investigations and other security-related duties.

The 6-week advanced dog handlers’ course took place at Braveheart Bio-Dog Academy in South Africa as a follow-up to the basic K9 training received at the Nigeria Police Force Dog Breeding/Training Centre Abuja.

This is the first time that NAF personnel would receive special training in dog handling at a reputable overseas institution.

Considering the security challenges currently being faced in the country, the newly acquired dogs, which have been trained to detect explosives, arms and ammunition, narcotics as well as other substances, are expected to serve as a complement to explosive detection devices.

The attendance of the advanced dog handlers’ course has further boosted the capacity of the affected NAF personnel and also exposed them to international best practices in the use of dogs for security purposes.

The NAF Air Provost Marshal, Air Commodore Christopher Dola, represented the Chief of the Air Staff at the graduation ceremony of the newly trained NAF personnel in Pretoria, South Africa on 20 May 2017 and has since returned to Nigeria.
Source:http:[url]//petsarena.com.ng/2017/05/nigerian-air-force-completes-training-advance-dog-handling-sa/[/url]

Introduction

Lettuce is one of the popular vegetables used in preparing salad that is grown all over the world. Its crispy, green/crimson-red leaves are one of the incredible sources of essential nutrients that benefit health. lettuce belong to to the daisy family known as Asteraceae. It's a leafy vegetable that can be consumed raw.

Lettuce farming was first done by the ancient Egyptians who turned it from a weed whose seeds were used to produce oil, into a food plant grown for its succulent leaves and oil-rich seeds. Lettuce spread to the Greeks and Romans, the latter of whom gave it the name lactuca, from which the English lettuce is ultimately derived. By 50 AD, many types were described, and lettuce appeared often in medieval writings, including several herbals



Health Benefits of lettuce

Low Calorie Content and almost no fat.
Lettuce has only 12 calories for 1 shredded cup.
This is why it is so good for weight loss.

High in Fiber and Cellulose
Another reason it is good for weight loss.
This fiber also helps remove bile salts from the body. When the body replaces these salts it breaks down cholesterol to do so. This is why lettuce is also good for your heart!

Heart Healthy
Lettuce’s vitamin C and beta-carotene work together to prevent the oxidation of cholesterol. This prevents the build up of plaque.

Omega-3 Fatty acids.
Romaine lettuce has a 2/1 ratio of omega-3 to omega-6. That’s a great ratio.
The fat content in lettuce is not significant UNLESS you eat a lot but we actually suggest you do.

Complete Protein
Romaine lettuce has 20 % of its calories in protein. Like all whole foods, much of this protein is complete but that amount can be increased by combining with balancing proteins.



Varieties Of Lettuce

These varieties are commonly used in cultivating lettuce:

Romaine or cos lettuce varieties form an upright, elongated head.
Loose-leaf or leaf types have leaves of various shapes loosely arranged around the stem.
Crisphead lettuces form a dense, compact head surrounded by a few looser leaves.
Butterhead (also commonly called Bibb, Boston or Buttercrunch) varieties form very loose heads of tender, sweetly flavored leaves.
Stem lettuce varieties have elongated leaves with a very bitter flavor and are commonly used in Chinese cuisine.


Climatic Requirement For Lettuce Farming

Lettuce does well in cool environment. Temperatures of between 45° F and 65° F are ideal for cultivating lettuce.Lettuce generally do not strive very well in tropic climates,although The leafy types mature quickly and are more suited for warm climates.Lettuce can be grown year round with proper varieties.

Soil Requirements For Lettuce Farming

Lettuce can grow well in a variety of soils, but the best soil to grow lettuce is friable loamy soil with high water retention and good drainage.

The best soil pH for lettuce is between 5.5-6.5. It is important you go for soil test before planting if you are growing in commercial quantity.



PLANTING

Land Preparation

You have prepare the land to get a fine tilt by ploughing about 3-4 times. Ensure you add organic matter after soil test.

Propagation

Lettuce is planted using the seeds.



You can spread the seed very thinly along a row and cover lightly with soil, or sprinkle it over a bed and rake it in. Lettuce seed is very fine and not easy to spread evenly, therefore both methods will likely require you to thin your seedlings later.

Another way you can propagate lettuce is through cutting

Here cuttings from old harvests may be used in the beds of new plantings. Cutting will also promote new shoots to develop and the heads to grow at a faster rate





Seed Rate And Planting Distance

Sow lettuce seeds thinly in rows 1 foot apart, plant seeds ½ inch deep.; for leaf types, thin plants to 2-3 inches apart, then thin again by pulling every other plant when half grown. This will encourage thickly developed plants.

For head, Bibb, and cos types, space rows 18 inches apart, plants 8-10 inches apart. Closer spacing results in smaller heads, which may be preferable for small families. A hectare of land requires about 2-3kg of lettuce seeds for planting. The optimum soil temperature for lettuce is about 20°-22°C



Irrigation in lettuce farming

Uniform moisture is necessary for proper growth of lettuce, so you have to irrigate your farm once in every 4-5 days. Make sure you drain out excess water especially when there is heavy rain.



Manuring And Fertilizing A Lettuce farm

Lettuce responds very well to manure and fertilizer, it is necessary to do this application on time. For better yield you should apply about 60-65kg each of potash and phosphorus and about 8-10 tonnes of farm yard manure per hectare.

Management practices In Lettuce Farming

To encourage crop growth and yield you need to carry out hoeing and weeding practices in your farm.

Mulching is an excellent practice and one that will enable your lettuce to thrive. It helps the soil retain moisture so that less water is lost through evaporation. It also discourages weed growth.



Diseases And Insects

Lettuce is attacked by aphids, armyworms, imported cabbage worm, and loopers.

Damping-off is a serious disease of young seedlings, whereas mildews and sclerotinia are serious on the more mature plants.

Both insects and diseases can be controlled if the correct chemicals are properly applied. Consult your Cooperative Extension agent regarding pest build-up, proper diagnosis, and control.

Harvesting Of Lettuce

Lettuce farming takes about two months to mature depending on the variety, however the first harvesting should be done at about 40- 60 days.Before maturity, you can harvest leaf lettuce by simply removing outer leaves so that the center leaves can continue to grow. Butterhead or romaine types can be harvested by removing the outer leaves, digging up the whole plant or cutting the plant about an inch above the soil surface. A second harvest is often possible this way.

Marketing Of Lettuce

Due to the short shelf life of lettuce it is important that you transport it immediately to your customers immediately after harvest.Before embarking on lettuce farming you need to get buyers for your lettuce to avoid spoiling of the vegetable after harvest due its short shelf life.

Source :http://theprofarmer.com/the-complete-guide-to-lettuce-farming/

They are edible and tropical rodents only that they need water for mating.They can be reared in Nigeria

The capybara is a large rodent of the genus Hydrochoerus of which the only other extant member is the lesser capybara. The capybara is the largest rodent in the world.

Capybaras got their name from the Tupi language from Brazil. Their literal translation means “one who eats slender leaves”.



They are kept in captivity as pets.



Quick Stats

Scientific name: Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris

Origin: South America with the exception of Chile

Height: 50 – 64 cm (Adult, at the withers)

Weight: 35 – 66 kg (Adult)

Length : 3.48 to 4.40 feet or 106 to 134 cm

Life span : 8–10 years on average

Gestation Period: 130–150 days

Litter Size: 4 capybara babies on average may produce up to eight in a single litter

Close relatives: Guinea pigs and rock cavies,



Description

The capybara has a heavy, barrel-shaped body and short head, with reddish-brown fur on the upper part of its body that turns yellowish-brown underneath. Its sweat glands can be found in the surface of the hairy portions of its skin, an unusual trait among rodents

The animal lacks under hair, and guard hair differs little from over hair. Adult capybaras grow to 150 to 212 cm (4.92 to 6.96 ft) in length, stand 70 to 112 cm (28 to 44 in) tall at the withers, and typically weigh 35 to 66 kg (77 to 146 lb.

The top recorded weights are 91 kg (201 lb) for a wild female from Brazil and 73.5 kg (162 lb) for a wild male from Uruguay.

Capybaras have slightly webbed feet and short vestigial tails.

Their hind legs are slightly longer than their forelegs; they have three toes on their rear feet and four toes on their front feet.

Their muzzles are blunt, with nostrils, and the eyes and ears are near the top of their heads. Females are slightly heavier than males.





Habitat

Capybaras are semi aquatic mammals found in almost all countries of South America with the exception of Chile.

They live in dense forests areas near bodies of water, such as lakes, rivers, swamps, ponds, and marshes, as well as flooded savannah and along rivers in tropical forest. Capybaras have flourished in cattle ranches.

They roam in home ranges averaging 10 hectares (25 acres) in high-density populations



Diet

They are herbivores eating mainly grasses, mostly selective grazers meaning that they eat some grasses leaving others.

They are also autocoprophagous, meaning they eat their own feces as a source of bacterial flora, to help digest the cellulose in the grass that forms their normal diet, and to extract the maximum protein and vitamins from their food.

They are normally preyed upon by jaguar, puma, ocelot, eagle,caiman and anaconda.

Social habits

They are more commonly found in groups that average 10–20 individuals, with two to four adult males, four to seven adult females, and the remainder juveniles, but can be found living individually. They make dog-like barks when threatened or when females are herding young.

Capybaras have two types of scent glands; a morillo, located on the snout, and anal glands.

Both sexes have these glands, but males have much larger morillos and use their anal glands more frequently.

They mark their territory by rubbing their morillo on an object, or by walking over scrub and marking it with their anal glands.

Males as well mark with their urine while females mark more often during the wet season when they are in estrus.

Reproduction

Capybaras mate only in water, and if a female does not want to mate with a certain male, she will either submerge or leave the water. When in estrus, the female's scent changes subtly and nearby males begin pursuit. In addition, a female will alert males she is in estrus by whistling though her nose. Dominant males are highly protective of the females, but they usually cannot prevent some of the subordinates from copulating.

The larger the group, the harder it is for the male to watch all the females. Dominant males secure significantly more matings than each subordinate, but subordinate males, as a class, are responsible for more matings than each dominant male.

The lifespan of the capybara's sperm is longer than that of other rodents.

Capybara gestation period is 130–150 days, and produce a litter of four capybara babies on average, but may produce between one and eight in a single litter.

Birth is on land and the female will rejoin the group within a few hours of delivering the newborn capybaras, which will join the group as soon as they are mobile.

Within a week, the young can eat grass, but will continue to suckle—from any female in the group—until weaned at about 16 weeks.
Source:http://petsarena.com.ng/2016/09/meet-capybra-largest-rodent-world-thats-big-dog/

fulaniHERDSman:

Cool stories!
Now Op, are you Femi or shehu? so that we'd know exactly who we will be "locking horns" with here

I be like say na Lauretta Onochie register this new account. They have been posting since 15 or earlier.

lanr3y1:


Go get dexamethasone from the Pharmacy... Its a 10tablet in a card.. 100 tablet in its pack... Give the dog 5tablets daily.... Ur dog will sleep a lot and eat heavily....

It is not good to give this dog 5 tablets of dxamethasone. This overdose and drug abuse. The increased in appetite is due to over dose which may include other complications like vomiting, restlessness,etc and your dog may get ulcer with prolonged use

What is the name of this animal?

Chairman, Wheat Farmers Association of Gombe State, Mr Batari Dauda, said that 9,000 tons of wheat were harvested during 2016/2017 harvest season in the state.

Mr Dauda, disclosed this while speaking with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Gombe on Monday, he said that 1,200 registered farmers cultivated 2,000 hectares of land across the state.

He described the yield as fairly good, but disclosed that the initial target was cultivate 10,000 hectares of land across the state.

He said the harvest was hindered by lack of quality seeds and farming implements.

“Most of the farmers said the seed they secured was plantable material, that is seed that was planted for over five years.

“This results to deterioration in terms of quality because the yield will not be good.

“Initially Lake Chad Research Institute brought us foundation seed, but the problem we have with them is that the seed is not sufficient, he said.

Dauda said those that were able to plant the crop early realized three to four tons on each hectare while those that planted late, realized between one and two tons per hectare.

“This is because the temperature has to be low before planting wheat because wheat does not grow during the rainy season, it can only be planted between first and last week of November”

“Therefore, a farmer must cultivate his land in October and wait for November to plant and harvest in March,” he explained.

The chairman however said that farmers had no problem getting market for the produce because the association had signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Nigeria Millers Association.