The true prevalence of livestock diseases in Himachal Pradesh, India, has historically been underestimated due to limited studies and fragmented data. This review aims to consolidate and shed light on the prevalence of major infectious diseases affecting livestock in the state, using records spanning from 1995 to 2023. The data for this review were meticulously gathered from several sources, including PubMed, J-med, Google Scholar, and Web of Science, using a comprehensive search strategy combining relevant phrases and keywords. Despite the availability of various studies on livestock diseases in the region, the data have not been systematically organized or easily accessible, with some studies remaining unpublished or out of the public domain. This review addresses this gap by offering a comprehensive and organized synthesis of the available information. The insights derived from this review are expected to be valuable for policymakers, veterinarians, and researchers, helping them identify priority areas, monitor disease prevalence, and focus on the most urgent threats to livestock health. The uniqueness of this review lies in its current, detailed overview of livestock disease status in Himachal Pradesh, providing an essential resource for guiding future research and interventions.

Sheeppox virus (SPPV) and Goatpox virus (GTPV), members of the genus Capripoxvirus, cause transboundary pox diseases in sheep and goats. Although disease is mostly host-specific, uncertainty of cross-infection always exists under mixed farming practices. A comprehensive genome-wide plasticity and phylogenetic analysis was performed by comparing 17 SPPV and 11 GTPV field strains with host-specific native SPPV-SP3-Nur and GTPV-GP5-Indora strains. Compared to the reference strains, SPPV TU-V02127 (NC_004002.1) and GTPV Pellor (NC_004003.1), both native strains showed genetically conserved core genes with variations concentrated in terminal regions genes linked to virulence and host interaction (B22R-like protein, kelch- like protein, serpins, ankyrin repeat proteins). The majority of studied SPPV and GTPV strains maintained strong genomic stability, except for a GTPV Yemen strain, for which cross-species (host) infection was reported, and a few strains showed evidence of frequent involvement as minor parents in interspecies recombination within highly plastic regions containing genes for immune evasion and host determinants. Phylogenetic analysis of 28 complete genomes showed host-specific, territory-definite clades and subclades with SP3-Nur and GP5-Indora clustering within the Asian subclade S2.3 and G1.1, respectively, representing Indian regional subclades. This study highlights the progressive host as well as terrestrial adaptation of SPPV and GTPV in general. Though the existence of strains with high genomic plasticity may be a localised and evolving high-risk phenomenon at present, it poses a larger threat of transboundary and cross-species spread. These findings underscore the need for wider genomic surveillance to monitor viral transmission and tracking transboundary spread for effective disease management.

The economic activity of animals is directly related to age. Age determines both productive and reproductive traits of animals, which are a direct indicator of the economic importance of an animal. Dentition plays a vital role in determining the age of animals whereby the correct age of animals can be deduced, and further activity is determined on this basis. Animals reared for meat have to pass quality check-ups before their meat flows through the human food chain. The examination of animals before slaughter and following slaughter gains importance so that meat of inferior, substandard quality does not find access to humans thus keeping the health of humans safe. Certifications are of utmost importance in the proper identification and subsequent checking of animal and animal products whereby proper and delinquently done check-ups provide sufficient evidence for the quality of products available in the market.

A veterinarian's adeptness in effective communication and organizational prowess plays a pivotal role in ensuring optimal patient care, seamless collaboration with clients, and effective teamwork. Among the indispensable tools, SWOT analysis stands out as a critical element, facilitating improved planning, execution, and ultimate success. Conducting periodic SWOT analysis is imperative for veterinarians, hospitals, and organizations alike. This chapter delves into these essential facets, often underestimated within the scope of formal veterinary education, yet paramount for a comprehensive professional degree program.

Veterinary medications play a crucial role in the prevention and treatment of animal diseases. However, their improper use can have adverse consequences. Within this chapter, we delve into several facets of veterinary drugs, encompassing anesthetics and biological agents, exploring their journey from development to distribution. We emphasize the importance of accurate prescription in maintaining and protecting animal health. Furthermore, our focus extends to the responsible utilization of scheduled drugs and the pressing concern of drug resistance, notably in antibiotics. It is imperative to exercise caution and prudence in the use of these antimicrobial agents. To gain a deeper and more comprehensive understanding of each of these topics, we encourage readers to consult relevant textbooks.

Different shifts in climate patterns can result in a range of problems in animals including alterations in physiological and behavioral traits as well as increased vulnerability to diverse diseases. These issues have a direct influence on animal well-being, the control of diseases, the effectiveness of livestock, the assurance of food supply, the threats posed by zoonotic diseases, and more. Consequently, it is crucial for veterinarians to understand how climate change can exert its effects on animals, particularly within the sphere of livestock production, health maintenance, and disease management. Furthermore, it is essential to keep in mind that climate change doesn't solely impact animals; it also has repercussions for humans and the environment. The intricate interconnectedness of all living beings within ecosystems means that anything dwelling within this system is subject to its effects. This chapter has outlined important effects that may accrue as a result of climate change and how veterinarians could play a role in mitigating these.

The chapter outlines and briefly discusses the various veterinary diagnostic techniques, such as blood tests, urine tests, and electrocardiography. It also introduces the basics of pain management and anesthesia, as well as the most common general anesthesia protocols for companion animals. The chapter then discusses radiography, a type of diagnostic imaging, and divides it into subsections for the skeleton, abdomen, and thorax. Other diagnostic techniques covered in the chapter include ultrasonography, echocardiography, and endoscopy. The chapter also outlines the standard operating procedures in a surgical operation theater for elective procedures like ovariohysterectomy (spaying) and castrations. Later sections of the chapter delve into the management of veterinary patients during emergencies and life-threatening situations, with a dedicated section on euthanasia. Finally, the chapter concludes by discussing assisted reproductive technologies, such as artificial insemination and heat synchronization in animals.

This chapter provides a brief overview on different aspects of important zoonotic diseases that occur commonly in different parts of the world. A special mention has been made for the diseases present in the African and American continents so that the readers can have an overview of diseases in these major geographical areas. The chapter also provides a concise overview of transmission pathways, clinical symptoms associated with different infectious diseases, recommended sample collection procedures, and the general treatment options or specific preventive measures for controlling these diseases. Additionally, a brief section on food safety has been incorporated to underscore the vital role of veterinarians in effectively managing and ensuring the safety of animal-derived food products for human consumption.

Staphylococcus aureus is a significant bacterium that causes substantial economic losses in the livestock sector and poses life-threatening risks to both humans and animals. This study aimed to explore the prevalence, susceptibility to antimicrobials, and profiles of virulence and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) genes in S. aureus isolated from nasal swabs and lung tissues of sheep and goats exhibiting symptoms of respiratory disease. A total of 194 samples were examined, resulting in the isolation and confirmation of S. aureus in 65 samples, indicating an overall prevalence of 33.5%. These isolates were further subjected to an AMR assay. Among the representative isolates (37), sensitivity was observed to chloramphenicol and ceftriaxone. Conversely, penicillin showed the lowest efficacy, with 83.8% of isolates demonstrating resistance, followed closely by amoxiclav, which exhibited resistance in 75.7% of isolates. Close to threequarters of isolates carried at least one AMR gene. Virulence genes were identified in 67.6% of S. aureus isolates, with coa and lukpv detected in 37.8% and arcA in 32.4% of isolates. Additionally, mecA and vatC were present in 54.05%, vatB in 43.25% and aphD in 18.91% of S. aureus isolates. A substantial 91.9% of isolates exhibited multidrug resistance, and MAR indices exceeding 0.2 were recorded in 86.5% of S. aureus isolates, indicating a high public health risk. These findings underscore the importance of prioritizing infections caused by S. aureus, necessitating heightened attention from both veterinarians and healthcare workers in migratory communities. Furthermore, the regulated and judicious use of antimicrobials is crucial to mitigate the risks associated with antimicrobial resistance in these settings.

The chapter covers the topic of veterinary clinical reasoning, which is the method veterinarians use to make well-informed decisions when diagnosing and treating various diseases in animals. It also provides insights into the process of obtaining a patient's medical history and outlines different disease conditions that lead to various clinical symptoms. Additionally, this chapter discusses the formulation of treatment plans and the various categories of drugs employed to manage symptoms during the course of diseases. Furthermore, it addresses aspects such as health informatics, efficient resource utilization, telemedicine, and economic considerations within the context of contemporary veterinary practice.

This chapter draws the attention of veterinarians to a very important aspect of international trade and regulation in animals and their products. The chapter touches upon the agencies that set up the rules and regulation and standards associated with transportation and movement of animals across international borders. It talks about international guidelines and the veterinarians' responsibilities in disease control and safeguarding public health. Toward the end, different certifications and documents have been listed that may be required before transportation.

Canine otitis externa is inflammation of external ear canal, causing discomfort to the patients. In presented study dogs displaying symptoms of otitis externa for a duration exceeding two months were studied. Twenty-three dogs were included based on the duration of illness. Cytological and microbiological investigations were conducted in all the cases.Animals were categorized into two groups for treatment. Group I (n=11) was given oral Marbofloxacin, while Group II (n=12) received Cefpodoxime. The therapeutic efficacy was assessed on days 7th and 14th post-treatment. Notably, Group I demonstrated rapid and effective recovery within 14 days compared to Group II.

This chapter has emphasized key aspects of veterinary medicine and animal husbandry, as well as the skills associated with livestock production and management. It has highlighted the importance of veterinarians comprehending these concepts and professional skills to become proficient in handling complex and mundane routine and emergency operations at farms or other establishments. For instance, it provides an example of a dairy farm. The chapter also lists common veterinary and animal husbandry-centric activities on livestock and poultry farms. Additionally, it discusses common operations at dog-breeding kennels.

The veterinarian plays a vital role in ensuring the well-rounded nutrition of both farm and companion animals, a factor of utmost importance for their overall health and productivity. This chapter provides essential information on fundamental nutrition concepts and feeding practices, knowledge crucial for veterinarians to comprehend in order to promote balanced and cost-effective feeding for domestic animals. Additionally, this chapter delves into the significance of breeding strategies and breed characteristics in animal husbandry, knowledge that veterinarians must possess to contribute effectively to the sustainable and economical production of domestic animals. Familiarity with breeding practices and breed traits empowers veterinarians to identify specific health issues that may be unique to particular breeds, enabling accurate diagnosis and treatment. Furthermore, expertise in animal breeding aids veterinarians in unlocking the full genetic potential of animals while ensuring they thrive in suitable environmental conditions.

Aspiring veterinarians should possess a comprehensive awareness of the diverse sectors closely linked to the profession of veterinary medicine, animal husbandry, and animal welfare, as these areas harbor most potential career avenues. The realms of veterinary science, animal husbandry, and related industries hold significant global prominence. Within a country, these sectors exhibit a high degree of organization, operating under the oversight of various ministries, agencies, and institutions, each assigned well-defined roles. The functions encompass a spectrum that ranges from shaping policies at the national or regional level to executing these policies through an array of provincial, district, or local entities, involving administrative, technical (veterinarians, paravets), and auxiliary staff. Furthermore, the landscape features private veterinary hospitals, autonomous institutes, and professional organizations, all contributing cohesively to animal well-being, societal progress, and the advancement of scientific knowledge. This chapter encapsulates pertinent insights from various countries, offering a perspective on the pivotal ministries, agencies, institutes, and regulatory bodies that collectively constitute the structure of organized veterinary and animal husbandry services.

Accurate diagnosis of a specific disease invariably necessitates the laboratory testing of clinical samples to detect the presence of pathogens. The precise detection of pathogens relies on the availability of suitable samples collected and transported under appropriate conditions. Clinical samples may be gathered for various purposes, including epidemiological studies, international trade, outbreak management, and control strategies. Regardless of the context in which clinical samples are collected and prepared for testing, veterinarians and laboratory personnel should adhere to recommended instructions and procedures. It is essential to include relevant information such as the animal's medical history, clinical symptoms, specific lesions, treatment details, and tentative diagnosis in the required form accompanying the sample. Collection procedures should be meticulously designed and documented, taking into account variations based on the sample type and intended analyses. In cases of delayed transportation, preserving samples should be done appropriately to maintain the specimen's integrity. Furthermore, careful consideration must be given to the proper storage conditions of clinical samples until laboratory analyses are completed. Depending on the nature of the samples, specific transport media and conditions should be utilized. When collecting samples from dead animals, it is crucial to do so as early as possible to prevent putrefaction, which could lead to inaccurate disease diagnoses. This chapter summarizes these essential facets, often underestimated within the scope of formal veterinary education, yet paramount for assessing the health and disease status.

This chapter's objective is to underscore that livestock, pets, and poultry are susceptible to a spectrum of disorders that do not stem directly from microbial involvement. These diseases can impact diverse bodily systems, including the respiratory, reproductive, digestive, musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, nervous, and endocrine systems. Many of these disorders have a metabolic basis, characterized by disruptions in the animal's metabolic processes, often tied to imbalances in energy or nutrients. Several of these conditions become apparent during the peri-parturient period or early lactation in dairy animals, and some can be attributed to changes in diet and management practices. Others may be associated with factors like genetics, nutrition, or stress. The primary aim is to draw attention to these significant non-infectious diseases. The incidence of these conditions can vary depending on factors such as management practices, species type, breed, physiological status, age, and gender. It is of utmost importance for veterinarians to possess a thorough understanding of these conditions to be able to accurately diagnose, treat, prevent, and manage them effectively.

This chapter is designed to direct the reader's attention to those aspects of pharmacology, toxicology, and pathology that are crucial for professionals committed to serving the needs of animals and society. The essential topics mentioned herein from these disciplines merit focus of veterinary students during their time in college. Further, it is important to note that a deep understanding in preclinical and paraclinical subjects like anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and parasitology helps in fostering crucial competencies in pharmacology and pathology. The aim of the chapter is not to provide exhaustive knowledge about these core topics but rather to pinpoint to important elements that are indispensable for veterinarians to excel in the practice of veterinary medicine.

In this study, we report the isolation and characterization of novel lytic bacteriophages targeting Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli, sourced from natural cases of bovine mastitis. Sewage and milk samples were collected from the livestock farm of the College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences (COVAS), Himachal Pradesh Agricultural University (HPAU), Palampur, Himachal Pradesh, India, as well as surrounding localities. The isolated phages were assessed for their lytic activity against S. aureus and E. coli across various temperatures and concentrations. Initial phage concentrations ranged from 108 to 109 PFU/mL. However, a reduction of 2–3 logs in phage concentration was observed after 9 months of storage, except for phages recovered from infected milk samples, which retained their lytic activity. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the isolated phages belonged to the family Myoviridae. Furthermore, the lytic activity of these phages was found to be comparable to or even superior to that of conventional antibiotics tested. Moreover, the selected phages maintained their lytic activity in milk under in vitro conditions, underscoring their potential as therapeutic agents for the treatment of bovine mastitis.

A veterinarian's in-depth understanding of infectious diseases impacting livestock, poultry, and pets is indispensable for numerous compelling reasons. Their primary duty is to ensure the health and well-being of animals, as infectious diseases can lead to suffering and substantial economic losses for both farmers and pet owners. Moreover, veterinarians who aspire to work with wildlife or specific animal species must acquaint themselves with prevalent infections in these unique environments. Recent graduates require fundamental knowledge to effectively prevent, diagnose, treat, and control diseases in diverse contexts. This knowledge equips veterinarians to alleviate animal suffering, uphold the welfare of livestock and companion animals, and address zoonotic diseases that pose threats to both animals and humans. In this chapter, we have provided a concise overview of some significant diseases affecting various animal species, including information about their causative agents, symptoms, lesions, diagnostic and therapeutic approaches, and general disease management strategies that too very briefly. Additionally, veterinarians must acknowledge that disease prevalence can vary by location and breed, necessitating an adaptable approach that considers local factors, breed-specific susceptibilities, and seasonal fluctuations. Continuous learning and adaptability are essential for maintaining expertise, especially when veterinarians encounter unique cases. Collaborative efforts, ongoing education, and active engagement with veterinary organizations are instrumental in keeping veterinarians well informed.