AGV 216 - Avian, Exotics, and Small Mammals
Last Date of Approval: 5/2025
2 Credits
Total Lecture Hours: 30
Course Description:
This course introduces the veterinary care and management of avian species, small mammals, and exotic companion animals such as reptiles. Emphasis is placed on anatomy and physiology, husbandry, nutrition, restraint and handling techniques, common diseases, diagnostic procedures, and nursing care. Students will develop skills in patient assessment, client education, and basic medical care tailored to the unique needs of these non-traditional species. This course prepares veterinary technology students to confidently support the veterinarian in practices that serve a diverse range of companion animals.
Mode(s) of Instruction: Traditonal/Face-to-Face
Credit for Prior Learning: There are no Credit for Prior Learning opportunities for this course.
Course Fees: None
Student Learning Outcomes and Objectives:
Student Learning Outcomes:
- Identify common avian, small mammal, and exotic pet species encountered in clinical veterinary practice, including their basic anatomical and physiological characteristics.
- Demonstrate and communicate proper husbandry practices for birds, small mammals, and reptiles, including appropriate housing, nutrition, and environmental enrichment to support owners of these animals.
- Safely and effectively restrain and handle avian and exotic species using techniques that minimize stress and risk to both animal and handler.
- Describe common diseases, parasites, and zoonoses affecting avian, small mammal, and exotic species, including clinical signs and prevention strategies.
- Assist in the collection of diagnostic samples and perform basic laboratory procedures appropriate for these species under veterinary supervision.
- Provide nursing care and client education specific to the needs of avian, small mammal, and exotic pet patients.
Unit Objectives:
Unit 1: Species Identification and Anatomy
Objective 1: Identify and describe the anatomical features and physiological characteristics of common avian, small mammal, and exotic species.
Unit 2: Husbandry and Nutrition
Objective 1: Describe appropriate housing requirements for birds, reptiles, and small mammals.
Objective 2: Identify species-specific nutritional needs and common dietary deficiencies.
Objective 3: Explain proper sanitation, temperature, humidity, and enrichment strategies for exotic pet enclosures.
Unit 3: Handling and Restraint
Objective 1: Demonstrate proper restraint techniques for birds, reptiles, and small mammals in both clinical and home-care settings.
Objective 2: Recognize signs of stress or distress during handling and adjust techniques accordingly.
Objective 3: Select and utilize appropriate tools and safety equipment for safe animal handling.
Unit 4: Common Diseases and Zoonoses
Objective 1: Identify clinical signs and symptoms of common diseases affecting exotic and small companion animals.
Objective 2: Explain the pathogenesis and transmission of key zoonotic diseases in these species.
Objective 3: Describe prevention and control measures for communicable diseases in exotic pets.
Unit 5: Diagnostic and Laboratory Procedures
Objective 1: List and describe common diagnostic procedures used in avian and exotic medicine (e.g., fecal exams, blood collection, imaging).
Objective 2: Demonstrate proper techniques for sample collection and handling in these species.
Objective 3: Recognize basic laboratory results relevant to exotic and small mammal patients.
Unit 6: Nursing Care and Client Education
Objective 1: Describe nursing care procedures for common conditions in avian, reptile, and small mammal patients.
Objective 2: Educate clients on post-treatment care, diet, behavior, and enrichment.
Unit 7: Clinical Communication and Critical Thinking
Objective 1: Participate in case discussions involving exotic and small mammal patients using problem-solving and clinical reasoning.
Objective 2: Communicate effectively with clients and the veterinary team about exotic animal care.
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