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Agriculture for Secondary Schools

the calf must be watched for bleeding or swelling. Strictly, this should be done
by trained personnel.

Activity 10.9

1. Using relevant video clips or documentaries, observe the castration processes
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done using various techniques, including the open method, the use of rubber
rings and Burdizzo.
2. In the school farm under the supervision of the teacher, preparing a calf for
castration.
3. Demonstrate the use of rubber rings and Burdizzo clamps on models or ropes
in castrating an animal.

Nose-ringing
Nose-ringing is done in breeding bulls to help control or restrain them during
handling. The ring is usually placed when the bull is about 15 to 18 months old.
It must be done by trained livestock personnel using clean tools. The ring should
never be used roughly, as it can hurt the bull. When used correctly, it helps to
guide the bull safely.

Activity 10.10

1. In the school farm, examine a bull’s nose ring and the tool used to insert it.

2. Practise guiding an animal using a lead rope and nose-ring.
3. Demonstrate calm handling techniques when controlling a mature bull.

Weighing for growth monitoring
Weighing helps to monitor an animal’s growth rate. Regular weighing shows
whether the animal is gaining weight at a healthy rate. This is done by comparing
the current weight with earlier records or expected growth for the animal’s age
and breed. If the weight gain is poor, it may be a sign of poor feeding, disease
or other problems. Early action can then be taken to improve the animal’s care
and avoid losses. Monitoring of Weight also helps when making decisions about
feeding, treatment, breeding, selling or culling. Slow-growing animals are not
good for future breeding or fattening. Keeping weight records makes it easier to
track progress and plan properly.

Depending on availability, a weighing scale or a weighing tape is used. When
using a weighing scale, the animal is placed on the scale platform and the actual

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