Abstract
M.Tech.
Capra hircus (boer goats) are well known for their hardy adaptability to arid regions and their ability to survive and thrive in areas where grazing is low in nutrition. They are an irreplaceable source of protein for the lower income groups of arid regions in South Africa. Boer goats are prone to helminthiasis (infestation of intestinal parasitic worms), which can result in poor health (Kumba, 2002). This can have a significant effect on the long term productivity of the animal (Alexandre and Mandonnet, 2005), resulting in economic and nutritional strain in poor farming communities who depend on goats as a primary source of protein and income (Kumba, 2002). Conventional treatments worldwide show a trend of resistance of helminths to treatment and carry the risk of inducing side effects when administered (Kumba, 2002; Scarfe, 2004; Schnyder et al., 2005). Homoeopathic research has shown promising results in the treatment of helminthiasis in animals (Zacherias et al., 2008; Jeannes et al, 2001), but no research currently exists of homoeopathy on helminthiasis in Boer goats.