In-Depth Notes on Animal Care and Husbandry

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Environment

  • Important Elements:

    • Temperature:

    • Species and breed specific.

    • Small Animals (SA): 18-29ºC (65-84ºF).

    • Large Animals (LA) need shelter from extremes.

    • Ventilation:

    • Passive: relies on wind and diffusion (natural).

    • Mechanical: includes fans, thermostats, and controlled air inlets.

    • Light/Dark Cycles:

    • Essential for overall health; constant light can induce stress.

    • Sunlight aids in breeding but excessive can be harmful.

Housing

  • Protection:

    • Essential against weather extremes and contaminants.

    • Standards include adequate size, safety, and structure integrity to prevent escape.

  • Size Rule:

    • Minimum of 10 times the size of the animal.

    • Include areas for outside exercise; safe bedding is critical.

Nutrition

  • Nutritional Needs:

    • Water: Most crucial nutrient, facilitates biochemical reactions, regulates temperature, and shapes organs. Must be clean and available 100% of the time.

    • Macronutrients:

    • Protein (essential and nonessential amino acids).

    • Fats (essential and nonessential fatty acids).

    • Carbohydrates.

    • Micronutrients:

    • Vitamins and minerals (macrominerals and microminerals).

Preventative Medicine

  • Physical Exams:

    • Thorough inspection is crucial; includes tools like thermometers and stethoscopes.

    • Gather signalment, history, and conduct systems review.

    • Vital signs (TPR), weight, and systemic evaluation are vital.

  • Vaccinations:

    • Types:

    • Active Immunity: Antibodies produced (noninfectious).

    • Infectious Vaccines: May cause mild disease but offer higher efficacy.

    • Canine Core Vaccines: Include rabies, distemper, and parvovirus.

    • Feline Core Vaccines: Include rabies and feline viral rhinotracheitis.

    • Equine Core Vaccines: Include tetanus and West Nile virus.

Parasite Control

  • Ectoparasites:

    • Examples: Fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes; zoonotic potential.

  • Endoparasites:

    • Types include protozoa and nematodes; examples: roundworms and giardia.

  • Diagnostics and Therapy:

    • Methods include fecal tests, skin scrapings, and blood tests, along with topical or surgical interventions.

Cleaning and Sanitation

  • Premises:

    • Purpose: prevent the spread of disease via fomites.

    • Use of mechanical disinfectants and appropriate cleaning agents (e.g., hypochlorites).

  • Patient Preparation:

    • Important for controlling vectors and ensuring comfort; includes use of antiseptics like chlorhexidine.

These notes cover critical aspects of Animal Care and Husbandry useful for exam preparation, including environmental needs, nutrition, preventative health measures, and sanitation protocols. Understanding these categories provides a comprehensive insight into responsible animal husbandry practices.