SOCIO-ECONOMIC DETERMINANTS OF ACCESS AND USE OF VETERINARY SERVICES BY RURAL POULTRY FARMING HOUSEHOLDS INABIA STATE, NIGERIA

The study analyzed socio-economic determinants of access and use of veterinary services among poultry farmers in Abia State Nigeria.  The study specifically investigated the level of access of veterinary services by poultry farmers, ascertained the level of use of veterinary service by poultry farmers. Multi stage and purposive sampling techniques were applied in choosing 120 poultry farmers for the study. The study made use of structured questionnaire. Data obtained were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Tobit regression analysis. Result of Tobit regression revealed that socio-economic variables of the respondents were determinants of access and use of veterinary services. The coefficients of age (0.0259**), farming experience (0.0314***) farm size (0.2511***) and household size (0.3023) significantly influenced use and access of veterinary services by poultry farmers. The Study concludes that poultry farmers in Abia State are getting enough veterinary services The study recommends that the socio-economic determinants of the poultry farmers should be considered by the relevant authorities involved in dispensation of veterinary services in study area.