Rearing, Management and Feeding of Non-Conventional Pet Animals

The course is aimed to supply the basic knowledge on husbandry, breeding and nutrition in unconventional pets: birds (Galliformes, Anseriformes, Psittaciformes, Passeriformes) and mammals (Lagomorphs, Rodents, Mustelidae) and reptiles (Chelonia. The main topics of the course will be: species classification, morphology, husbandry and welfare, behaviour and management, reproduction. This will include the basics of nutrition, handling around exotic animal species, including pet birds, small mammals, amphibia, reptiles and fish. The knowledge of the different species will be oriented to a responsible breeding in accordance with animal behaviour and welfare.

1. Knowledge and understanding. At the end of the course the student will be able to set up a suitable environment and to formulate an appropriate diet for the subject in the different stages of life (breeding, in particular) critically choosing the most appropriate diet and facilities for the conditions and lifestyle of the species for which they are intended.
2. Applying knowledge and understanding. The student will have to demonstrate knowledge useful in assessing the nutritional adequacy of industrial preparations and the suitability and safety of facilities for the correct husbandry, as well as the completeness of the information necessary to allow the owner or breeder to choose the breeding programs suited to their needs and to ensure the welfare of the animals.
3. Making judgement. The student will demonstrate the ability to critically argue the information acquired. In this sense, educational outings to companies and shows operating in the world of new companion animal species, and, in addition seminars with experts will be organised.
4. Communication. The student must demonstrate the ability to express him/herself with scientifically appropriate terminology, particularly with regard to terminology referring to identifying and explaining the critical issues and strengths of the proposed dietary regimes and housing, management and breeding systems. The student must be able to critically and proactively approach the study of the subject, analyzing the material provided by the teacher, the recommended texts and official websites.
Lifelong learning skills. The student will have to demonstrate knowledge in terms of notions and methodologies and the reasoning skills acquired during the course will allow the student to pursue his/her study independently by deepening and updating his/her knowledge in the area of new companion animal nutrition and breeding, according to current regulations.