VTMED 6734 - Companion Animal Welfare Issues

Spring. 1 credit. Letter grades only.

Minimum enrollment 3; maximum 50.

J. M. Scarlett, E. Berliner, H. Putnam, 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 a broad range of animal-related issues. These include breed-specific bans, restrictions on declawing, and trap-alter-and-return programs for 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; 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 enabling them to assume leadership with regards to these issues in their future communities.