- Description
- Students apply the principles of animal science and health technology in providing care for a domestic animal.
- Prerequisite
- AGR1040: Introduction to Animal Basics AGR3000: Agriculture Safety
- Parameters
- Access to a domestic animal and an appropriate animal housing/fencing structure.
Outcomes The student will:
1 differentiate among and discuss the classifications and breeds of domestic animals
1.1 identify and explain the advantages and disadvantages of owning a specific animal breed
1.2 identify criteria to be considered when selecting an animal (e.g., companion animal, performance animal, livestock), including:
1.2.1 type of animal
1.2.2 breed
1.2.3 gender
2 identify and describe indicators of health in a domestic animal
2.1 research the history of the selected animal of choice
2.2 identify and describe indicators of health in a selected domestic animal, considering:
2.2.1 physical signs of good and poor health
2.2.2 normal and abnormal vital signs
2.2.3 symptoms of disease and parasites
2.3 explain basic food requirements in specific situations; e.g., newborn, maintenance, growth or finishing, pregnant or lactating mothers, aging
2.4 describe contributions of technology in current animal husbandry and health care practices, including:
2.4.1 nutrition
2.4.2 disease prevention and treatment
2.4.3 reproduction
2.5 describe normal/abnormal physiology and anatomy for a selected domestic animal
2.6 describe normal/abnormal food sources and the impact of nutrient deficiencies on animal health
3 explain factors that contribute to a healthy animal environment
3.1 describe characteristics of a healthy animal environment and conditions that can place an animal’s health or safety at risk, considering:
3.1.1 sanitation
3.1.2 housing; e.g., kennel, cage and paddock management
3.1.3 methods of restraint
3.2 identify the shelter needs of a selected domestic animal
3.3 maintain desirable handling, housing and fencing structures
4 identify agents and sources of stress for animals and their implications for health
4.1 describe abnormal animal behaviour and practise intervention strategies for a sick animal, including:
4.1.1 reducing stress
4.1.2 administering emergency first aid
4.1.3 treating/controlling diseases and other ailments
4.1.4 administering medication
4.2 describe transportation-related sources of stress
4.3 describe veterinary services that are available and the protocol for accessing these services, including:
4.3.1 when to call
4.3.2 how to prepare
5 demonstrate practical skills in providing care for a domestic animal
5.1 demonstrate ethical behaviours in providing care for an animal; e.g., humane handling
5.2 monitor vital signs and examine for diseases, parasites and other common ailments through:
5.2.1 head-to-toe examination
5.2.2 grooming; e.g., regular brushing/bathing
5.2.3 care of feet/nails/hooves
5.2.4 dental care
5.3 identify appropriate birthing and newborn care
5.4 explain the importance of maintaining safe domestic and market-driven environments for animals
6 identify and describe legislation intended to address animal welfare
6.1 distinguish between animal welfare and animal rights
6.2 identify and describe organizations in the community that enforce animal protection legislation
6.3 identify federal and provincial laws related to animal protection
6.4 describe different perspectives regarding an issue in animal welfare, including:
6.4.1 ethical
6.4.2 legal
6.4.3 economic
6.4.4 social
6.5 outline a protocol for reporting an animal welfare issue
7 demonstrate basic competencies
7.1 demonstrate fundamental skills to:
7.1.1 communicate
7.1.2 manage information
7.1.3 use numbers
7.1.4 think and solve problems
7.2 demonstrate personal management skills to:
7.2.1 demonstrate positive attitudes and behaviours
7.2.2 be responsible
7.2.3 be adaptable
7.2.4 learn continuously
7.2.5 work safely
7.3 demonstrate teamwork skills to:
7.3.1 work with others
7.3.2 participate in projects and tasks
8 identify possible life roles related to the skills and content of this cluster
8.1 recognize and then analyze the opportunities and barriers in the immediate environment
8.2 identify potential resources to minimize barriers and maximize opportunities
Program of Studies 2010. Source document, © Alberta Education.