Dogs, cats, chickens, and food labels (Temp study guide)

Selective breeding vs domestication in dogs and cats

Selective breeding involves intentionally mating animals for specific traits, while domestication refers to the process of adapting wild species for human use, resulting in behavioral and physical changes.

sporting dogs

Used for hunting and other field activities

hounds

primarily used for hunting

working dogs

guarding property

terriers

killing pests like rats

toy breeds

bred for fun

non sporting

breeds that don't fit other categories

herding dogs

control the movement of other animals

Alpha male

the dominant male in a pack or group that leads and asserts control over resources and mating.

alpha female

the dominant female in a pack or group that helps lead and assert control over resources and mating.

omega male or female

a subordinate member of a pack or group that often has lower status than the alpha pair and may be marginalized in social interactions.

dominant dog body language

includes postures such as standing tall, direct eye contact, and a raised tail, signaling confidence and authority in interactions.

submissive dog body language

includes postures like lowering the body, avoiding eye contact, and tucking the tail, which signal a lack of aggression and a willingness to yield in social interactions.

Cat tail down means

a cat is feeling insecure or submissive, indicating potential fear or anxiety.

cat tail lashing back and forth means

the cat is agitated or annoyed, signaling a potential threat or irritation.

cat on its back with legs spread out means

a sign of trust and comfort, indicating that the cat feels safe and relaxed in its environment.

cat purring means

the cat is content or happy, often associated with relaxation and comfort.

cat rubbing against your leg means

a sign of affection and marking territory, indicating the cat is comfortable and seeks your attention.

cat rubbing its face against yours means

a display of affection and trust, signifying that the cat considers you safe and wants to strengthen its bond with you.

cat scratching furniture or other surfaces means

a natural behavior to sharpen claws and mark territory, often indicating boredom or a need for stimulation.

Why do domesticated animals tend to change physically, keeping their juvenile traits?

This phenomenon, known as neoteny, occurs because domestication favors traits that enhance sociability and adaptability, leading to physical and behavioral traits that resemble juvenile forms.

Why isn’t an animal like a tiger or bear from the time it is a tiny cub the same as domestication?

Wild animals like tigers or bears retain their natural instincts and behaviors as they grow, which are not selected for domestication. Domestication involves selective breeding for traits that make animals more suitable for human companionship and interaction.

What are some things that dogs are better at in relation to their human companions than any other wild animal?

Dogs excel in tasks like communication, understanding human emotions, and performing roles such as service animals, which enhance their relationship with humans.

Rabies in dogs and cats

a viral disease that affects the central nervous system, typically transmitted through the bite of an infected animal and characterized by symptoms like fever, confusion, and paralysis.

bordatella/kennel cough

a contagious respiratory disease in dogs caused by the Bordetella bronchiseptica bacteria, often spread in environments with high dog population.

hip dysplasia

a genetic condition affecting the hip joint, leading to arthritis and mobility issues in dogs and cats.

leptospirosis

a bacterial infection caused by the Leptospira species, often transmitted through contaminated water or soil, leading to symptoms such as fever, liver damage, and kidney failure.

distemper

a viral disease affecting dogs that can cause serious respiratory, gastrointestinal, and neurological symptoms, often preventable by vaccination.

parvovirus

a highly contagious viral infection in dogs that causes severe gastrointestinal distress, often leading to vomiting and diarrhea, and can be fatal if untreated.

parasite worms

tapeworms, hookworms, ground worms, and whip worms

best way to prevent illnesses in dogs and cats

is through regular vaccinations, proper hygiene, and routine veterinary check-ups.

Why are puppies and kittens most at risk for illnesses

Puppies and kittens are most at risk for illnesses due to their underdeveloped immune systems and lack of completed vaccinations. This makes them more susceptible to infections and diseases.

best way to check for dehydration in cats and dogs

is by checking their skin elasticity, monitoring their gum color, and observing their water intake.

normal temperature for cats and dogs

100-102 degrees F

normal pulse or heart rate for dogs

is typically between 60 to 100 beats per minute, depending on the dog's size and age.

normal pulse or heart rate for cats

is generally between 140 to 220 beats per minute, influenced by the cat's age and activity level.

respiration rate for dogs

typically ranges from 10 to 30 breaths per minute, depending on the dog's size and health.

respiration rate for cats

ranges from 20 to 30 breaths per minute, varying with the cat's activity and health.

normal gum color for dogs and cats

should be pink, indicating proper circulation and oxygenation.

How do you measure capillary refill time

by applying pressure to the gums until they turn white, then timing how long it takes for the color to return after release, which should be under 2 seconds.

White gums in dogs and cats

indicate poor circulation or oxygenation, often a sign of potential illness or distress.

blue gums in dogs and cats

indicate severe oxygen deprivation or respiratory distress, often requiring immediate veterinary attention.

yellow gums in dogs and cats

indicate liver dysfunction or jaundice, suggesting possible serious health issues.

If allowed to forage for their own food, what kind of diet will chickens consume?

Chickens will consume a varied diet including grains, seeds, insects, and green plants.

pecking order

the social hierarchy within a chicken flock that dictates access to resources and pecking rights.

Why do roosters crow?

Roosters crow primarily to establish territory, attract hens, and communicate with other roosters. This behavior can occur at any time of day, but it's most common at dawn.

What is being communicated if a rooster or mother hen repeatedly picks up and drops food?

This behavior indicates that they are trying to show other chickens where food is located or that they are feeding their chicks.

Difference between rooster and hen

Roosters are male chickens known for their crowing, larger combs, and spurs, while hens are female chickens that lay eggs and typically have smaller combs.

broiler

A type of chicken raised specifically for meat production, typically characterized by rapid growth and a plump body.

breeder flock operation

A farm or facility that specializes in breeding chickens for the purpose of producing eggs or meat. Breeder flocks are maintained to ensure quality genetics and high production rates.

hatchery

A facility where fertilized eggs are incubated and hatched into chicks, typically for poultry production.

grow out farm

A farm where young chicks are raised to maturity before being processed for meat. This stage involves feeding and caring for the birds until they reach market weight.

certified organic

A labeling term used for products that meet specific standards set by the USDA, ensuring they are produced without synthetic fertilizers or pesticides and have been raised according to organic farming practices.

free range

A farming practice where animals, such as chickens, are allowed to roam freely outdoors instead of being confined in cages, promoting natural behaviors and welfare.

grass fed

A term for livestock that have been raised on a natural diet consisting primarily of grass and forage, rather than grain-based diets.

certified humane

A label indicating that farm animals are raised and treated according to humane standards, including access to adequate space, shelter, and the ability to engage in natural behaviors.

cage free

A labeling term for eggs and poultry that indicates animals are not kept in cages and have some indoor and outdoor access, allowing for more natural behaviors.

natural

A term used to describe food products made without artificial ingredients or preservatives, promoting a healthier choice.