Course Description
This course will introduce genetics and the basics of genetic disease. Strategies to decrease the frequency of genetic disease will be discussed. Normal and abnormal reproductive anatomy and physiology of the common domestic species will be reviewed. Discussion will include the reproductive cycle of each species and signs and symptoms associated with normal parturition and dystocia. The veterinary team's role in assisting with the reproductive process will be emphasized. Enrollment is limited to students in the Veterinary Technology Program.
Course Content
The major topics in this course include the following:
- Genetics
- the history of genetics, simple mendelian patterns of inheritance and their relevance to genetic disease in domestic animals
- client and breeder counselling with regard to genetic disease
- the economic significance of genetics in domestic animal production and how this relates to herd management
- Breed specific genetic diseases
- common and relevant genetic diseases in the domestic species
- Reproduction
- definitions
- reproductive anatomy and physiology of domestic species
- estrus determination and manipulation of the estrous cycle
- reproductive diagnostic techniques
- management of breeding programs, artificial insemination and embryo transfer
- pregnancy and dystocia diagnosis and management
- perinatal care
Learning Activities
This course is a hybrid course with four hours per week of instruction, including in-person (face-to-face) lectures, online presentations, quizzes and self-directed worksheets.
Means of Assessment
The instructor will present a written course outline with specific evaluation criteria at the beginning of the semester. A final minimum cumulative grade of “C” or 60% is required in order to pass this course. Evaluation will be based on quizzes and assignments, at least one midterm and a final written examination.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course the student will be able to:
- Discuss the principles of genetics and inheritance with emphasis on their applications.
- Use tools such as the punnet square and pedigree charting to counsel clients in decision-making about animal breeding programs.
- Discuss reproductive anatomy and physiology in both companion animal and food animal species.
- Explain the signs of normal pregnancy, normal parturition and dystocia in companion animal and food animal species and be able to counsel owners when veterinary intervention is needed.
- Use reproductive diagnostic techniques.
- Explain techniques used in semen collection, artificial insemination and embryo transfer.
- Discuss manipulation of the reproductive cycle in various species.
Textbook Materials
A list of required and optional textbooks and materials is provided for students at the beginning of each semester.