Course overview
The course will provide students with an overview of the husbandry and welfare of companion animals (e.g., dog and cats), other pets (e.g., birds, reptiles, and small mammals), horses, and exotic animals found in settings such as zoos and aquariums. The roles of animals in society, as well as the management and ethics of animals under human care are included in the course. Students will learn about a variety of aspects impacting both domestic and wild animals in captivity. There will be opportunities for students to practice the correct handling of some of these domestic species. The course will also include field trips to allow students to hear and experience topics covered in the course.
Course learning outcomes
- Compare and contrast the husbandry and welfare practices of companion animals, pets, exotics, and equine species.
- Describe major medical ailments and diseases of domestic animals and the links between husbandry and disease.
- Describe the importance of assessing and improving the welfare of exotic animals in captivity.
- Discuss the positive and negative aspects of domestic animals in society.
- Use written and oral communication, data collection and analysis, and critical evaluation of information in the context of an animal practitioner (e.g., animal scientist).
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The Student Contribution amount displayed below is for students commencing a new program from 2021 onwards. If you are continuing in a program you commenced prior to 1 January 2021, or are commencing an Honours degree relating to an undergraduate degree you commenced prior to 1 January 2021, you may be charged a different Student Contribution amount from the amount displayed below. Please check the Student Contribution bands for continuing students here. If you are an international student, or a domestic student studying in a full fee paying place, and are continuing study that you commenced in 2025 or earlier, your fees will be available here before enrolments open for 2026.