Introduction to Companion Animal Science

Catalog description

Companion animals are often considered family members. This course surveys the variation available in companion animals (dog breeds, cat breeds, fish, reptiles, amphibians, rabbits, pet pigs, ferrets, hamsters, gerbils, mice, rats, birds & newer pets such as hedgehogs, prairie dogs & sugar gliders) and then examines related human and animal issues in more depth. Biological explanations are stressed for understanding disease states and normal behaviors of companion animals. These explanations are discussed from the point of view of problem behaviors in the average home housing these animals. This course will help educate the students about companion animals so that both the animals and their human families will be happier and more productive members of society. ANS 105 will enable students to pick the pet or specific breed that is best for them so that pets and owners stay together. Restricted to Freshmen and Sophomores.