VTMED 6734 - Companion Animal Welfare Issues

Spring. 1 credit. Letter grades only.

Minimum enrollment 3; maximum 50.

J. M. Scarlett, E. Berliner, K. Bollen, and staff.

Companion animal welfare issues have become a major concern for many American communities. Precipitated by the changing status of companion animals, the proliferation of free-roaming cats, and human safety issues, communities are considering (or have passed) breed-specific bans, restrictions on declawing, and solutions for “free-roaming” cats. This course will address these and other issues such as pet surplus—animals entering shelters and those euthanized in shelters; the “no-kill” movement; reasons for relinquishment to shelters; recognition and documentation of animal abuse; the use of pediatric neutering in population control—studies relating to safety and potential adverse effects; and dog fighting and the role of the veterinarian in the recognition and reporting of these activities. The objective of the course is to provide information for veterinary students such that they can assume leadership with regard to these issues in their future communities.