Anatomy and Physiology

On successful completion of this module students should be able to:

1. Identify relevant anatomical terminology and common landmarks used for a variety of veterinary nursing requirements.
2. Examine the relationship between cells, tissues, organs and organ systems and explain their structure and function.
3. Compare and contrast the normal anatomy and physiology of dogs, cats or small mammals with exotics, livestock or equids.
4. Explain the changes to normal anatomy and physiology that result in common diseases in dogs, cats, small mammals or equids.
5. Examine effective breeding mechanisms in dogs, cats, small mammals, livestock or equids and appraise the role of the veterinary nurse and organisations in responsible breeding.

The aim of this module is to familiarise the student with the basic terms and definitions used in anatomy and physiology in relation to anatomical landmarks required for restraint, diagnostic procedures, surgical techniques requiring preparation of specific areas. Important aspects of anatomy and physiology describing normal structure and function at both the systemic and cellular levels will be explored and emphasis will be placed on important comparative aspects and clinical applications. A range of species will be examined. The reproductive systems will be explored and the processes required in breeding a range of species will be examined. Embryology and the gestation period will be examined and the physiology of parturition. The pitfalls of breeding and the issues surrounding inbreeding (such as the effect of inbreeding on normal anatomy) will be considered, with reference to the organisations involved in trying to improve welfare of animals through breeding and screening programmes e.g. Kennel Club and BVA. Whilst the module focusses on dogs, cats, small mammals and equids, there is a comparison made to these species and livestock and exotics to provide students with an appreciation of the range of normal anatomy that is varied between species.

1. Terms and definitions
2. Identification of important anatomical and physiological features and landmarks
3. The following body systems will be examined: integument, musculoskeletal, nervous, endocrine, gastrointestinal, reproductive, lymphatic, cardiovascular, respiratory, urinary including the effects of disease on normal physiology
4. Normal anatomy and physiology of a range of species including dogs, cats, small mammals, exotics, large animals and equids.
5. Care of peri-parturient females and neonates, breeding practices in dogs, cats, small mammals, exotics, large animals and equids
6. Common reproductive disorders and how these can be avoided
7. Role of organisations such as the Kennel Club, BVA and others in responsible breeding.

Lectures: 21 x 1 h

Seminar/Tutorials: 2 x 1 h tutorials, 17 x 1 h seminar

Practicals: 5 x 1 h

This module is at CQFW Level 4