Investigation on the Awareness and Use of Anthelmintic Drugs among Sheep Farmers: An Inquiry into North Western Region of Tamil Nadu, India

Abstract

A study was undertaken among sheep farmers in the Salem and Dharmapuri districts of Tamil Nadu to assess their awareness regarding the use of anthelmintics. A total of 60 respondents were selected through a multistage random sampling method. Data were collected via personal interviews using a pre-tested and well-structured interview schedule. The collected information was analyzed using conventional percentage analysis and binary logistic regression analysis. The findings indicated that about 63 per cent of the respondents were aware of the significance and economic advantages of anthelmintic usage. However, only 53 per cent reported that they practice regular deworming. Among those who dewormed their flocks, 47 per cent used Albendazole, while 23 per cent administered Levamisole. Awareness about rotational use of anthelmintics was observed in 46.6 per cent of the farmers, whereas only 11.6 per cent were knowledgeable about the concept of targeted selective treatment. The results of binary logistic regression analysis to assess the determinant factors of awareness on anthelmintic usage revealed that several demographic and farm-related factors had a significant positive influence which included the farmer's educational level, experience in sheep farming, size of the flock, frequency of interaction with veterinarians, engagement with social media, and the income derived from sheep farming.