Droppings in Water Trough

New Zealand Journal of Agriculture, Volume 60, Issue 1, 15 January 1940, Page 51

Droppings in Water Trough

A.J.M. (OXFORD):— I would be . very grateful if you would please give me your advice through your “Journal” on the two following questions: — (1) We have here a number of paddocks watered by troughs fed from a tank and well. Occasionally sheep droppings are deposited in the troughs or are blown in by the wind. If these droppings contained the larvae of any parasitic worms I think that these troughs would probably ' act as perfect incubators. Is there any. disinfec-

tant that would keep . the water in good condition without harm to stock? (2) What is the most reliable remedy for tutu poisoning in sheep? LIVESTOCK DIVISION:— - The accidental contamination of a. water trough by the droppings of sheep is not likely to prove a serious source of trouble" in regard to the propagation of parasites. It is true that if worm eggs were deposited with the droppings in the water it is possible that larvae may hatch out. but whether the larvae would be able to pass through the various stages until they reach the infective stage is very debatable. The risk, if any, is a very small one. and it is more advisable to take this risk than to add any disinfectant to the water supply. Naturally, one would prefer raising the troughs, if possible, to prevent the contamination by the droppings in the first place. Troughs are considered to be a very safe method of providing a wholesome water supply free from egg. and larval parasitic contamination. The real source of danger in the propagation of parasitic larvae and worms is, firstly, contaminated or infected pastures containing larvae developed to the infective stage, or a surface pond which frequently contains large numbers of infective larvae washed from the herbage by the surface water. By comparison the trough water supply is safe. ' In regard to tutu poisoning of sheep, there is no specific remedy. The active principle of tutu-tutin acts on the central nervous system, causing convulsions and paralysis. There is a marked tendency to gas formation and accumulation in the paunch, and, to ease this, doses of baking soda of one ounce dissolved in a few ounces of water, doses of four to six ounces of lime water, or a dose of one ounce of aromatic spirit of ammonia in water may be given. The baking soda may be most easily obtained in an emergency. The paunch may be punctured by a suitable small trocar and cannula to relieve the gas. Bleeding from an ear vein has also been recommended. Affected animals should be kept as quiet as possible during a convulsion. - The main danger appears to arise in the case of travelling hungry stock, so that provision requires to be made in anticipation ,of cases which mainly follow mustering .or droving. .