VETS 481 - Applied Primatology

Credit Hours: 3
Lecture Hours: 2
Laboratory Hours: 3

Prerequisite(s): None

Restriction(s): Restricted to students enrolled in the BS Veterinary Technology major or permission of instructor.

Corequisite(s): None

This course gives students a unique, hands-on experience working with and caring for primates. Students will gain in-depth insight into the care and maintenance of a primate colony with special focus on husbandry, colony healthcare, environmental enrichment and the promotion of psychological wellbeing. The students will gain proficiency in multiple techniques including restraint, injections, catheter placement, dentistry, blood collection, TB testing and anesthesia. Students will gain in-depth knowledge of how a primate colony operates. Students will be expected to perform behavioral assessments and advanced healthcare requirements as instructed in order to ensure the proper care of our colony. Students will have hands-on experience unlike any other as no other Veterinary Technology programs have a colony of primates for teaching and training.

Student Learning Outcomes of the Course:

1. Recognize and discuss nonhuman primate classification, distinguishing characteristics, and biomedical advances achieved through their use.

2. Apply teachings of nonhuman primate husbandry, behavior, veterinary care, and common diseases in a working setting for the care of a nonhuman primate colony.

3. Formulate and assess enrichment and positive reinforcement plans, devices, and methods for caged nonhuman primates.

4. Explain where to access regulatory information regarding nonhuman primates and understand what is mandated.

5. Describe the risks involved in working with nonhuman primates and methods to prevent hazardous situations for the public and care staff.