Course Description
Companion animal care, with emphasis on nutrient requirements, digestion and absorption, commercial feeds, reproduction, diseases, parasites, behavior, and the animal role in human health and disease.
Athena Title
Companion Animal Care
Equivalent Courses
Not open to students with credit in ADSC 2300
Non-Traditional Format
This course will be taught 95% or more online.
Semester Course Offered
Offered summer semester every year.
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Course Objectives
This course is designed as a general elective to introduce students to the basic care of companion animals, including dogs, cats, horses, birds, reptiles, fish, and small mammals. Additionally, students will be introduced to the companion animal industry, and the animal-human bond will be explored. By the end of the semester, students should be able to: 1. Identify different breeds/species of dogs, cats, horses, birds, small mammals, fish, and reptiles, and be able to select a companion animal that will best fit their lifestyle. 2. Compare and contrast the digestive and reproductive systems of dogs, cats, horses, and birds. 3. Design a nutrition program for dogs, cats, horses, birds, reptiles, and small mammals. 4. Understand the major diseases in dogs, cats, and horses, and design a vaccination schedule. 5. Understand the major parasites in dogs, cats, and horses, and design a parasite program. 6. Understand the bond between humans and animals and how animals are used for psychological, therapeutic, and health reasons.
Topical Outline
Companion animal industry: numbers, statistics, etc. Benefits of ownership Service animals Dog/cat breeds Small mammal species (gerbil, guinea pig, etc.) Reptile species Bird breeds Horse breeds Selecting an appropriate pet Dog/cat/horse/bird/reptile/small mammal reproduction Unwanted animal issue: stray cats and dogs, abandoned horses Dog/cat/horse/bird/reptile/small mammal nutrition Dog/cat/horse diseases Dog/cat/horse vaccination schedules and protocol Dog/cat/horse parasites Dog/cat/horse parasite prevention and treatment Senior animals