Dogs, Cats & Miscellaneous Pets 1

This subject has the following teaching availabilities in 2009:

For the purposes of considering request for Reasonable Adjustments under the Disability Standards for Education (Cwth 2005), and Student Support and Engagement Policy, academic requirements for this subject are articulated in the Subject Overview, Learning Outcomes, Assessment and Generic Skills sections of this entry.

It is University policy to take all reasonable steps to minimise the impact of disability upon academic study, and reasonable adjustments will be made to enhance a student's participation in the University's programs. Students who feel their disability may impact on meeting the requirements of this subject are encouraged to discuss this matter with a Faculty Student Adviser and Student Equity and Disability Support: http://services.unimelb.edu.au/disability

Students completing Dogs, Cats and Miscellaneous Pets 1 (and 2) should: be familiar with breed and behavioural characteristics of small companion animals; possess the essential information on diseases of small animals on which to approach a diagnosis based on epidemiology and clinical signs in an individual animal or group of animals; be able to interpret and utilise the results of laboratory tests in making a diagnosis; be able to devise appropriate forms of therapy or management; be able to devise strategies for prevention and control of disease in small animals; be aware of the public health implications of zoonoses of pet animals; and be aware of disease prevention for laboratory animals and animal welfare issues in research and the community.

Diseases and preventive medicine of small animals and miscellaneous pets: infectious diseases; clinical signs, treatment, management and immunisation strategies, public health aspects, critical care of the medical case. Diagnosis and medical and surgical management of diseases of the nervous system, eye and ear, endocrine system, musculoskeletal system and behavioural conditions.

One 3-hour written paper at the end of semester (80%). One written assessment comprising 30-40 short answer or multiple choice questions during the semester (20%).

This subject is not available as a breadth subject.

At the end of the sequence Dogs, Cats and Miscellaneous Pets 1 and Dogs, Cats and Miscellaneous Pets 2 students should have developed:

• cognitive, analytic and problem solving skills, involving independent thought, rational enquiry and self-directed learning;

• professional and technical skills; and

• respect for intellectual integrity and professional ethics.