Module Identifier RD15010  
Module Title ANIMAL SCIENCE  
Academic Year 2001/2002  
Co-ordinator Dr Michael Rose  
Semester Semester 2  
Assessment Exam   1.5 Hours   80%  
  Project work   Animal Welfare Poster   20%  

Outcomes


Outcome 1
Explain the relevant components of the structure and function of the animal body as far as they apply to domestic farm animals.
Performance criteria:
a) Structure and function of appropriate areas of the animal body are explained.
b) Appropriate physiological mechanisms and events are identified.
Ranges:
Anatomy and physiology of the circulatory, respiratory and urinary systems; animal tissues; and nervous and hormonal control systems.
Structure and function of blood and tissue fluid.
Structure and function of the udder.
The hormonal control of lactation.


Outcome 2
Describe the processes of reproduction in domestic livestock and select appropriate techniques for the manipulation of reproductive performance.
Performance criteria:
a) The structure of the reproductive tract is described.
b) The physiological control of reproductive processes is outlined.
c) Methods of manipulating reproductive processes are explained in relation to physiological controls.
Ranges:
One of either cattle, sheep or pigs.


Outcome 3
Explain the inter-relationship between environment, health and management in the expression and control of disease in farm animals.
Performance criteria:
a) Describe the type and origin of pathogenic organisms.
b) Explain the reaction of the animal body to disease.
c) Identify the principles of disease control, prevention and treatment.
Ranges:
Common pathogenic micro-organisms involved in disease in farm animals.
Cellular and humoral responses.
Vaccination, disinfection, hygiene procedures, legislation.
Alternative medical treatments - homeopathy, acupuncture, herbal remedies.


Outcome 4
Outline the current areas of concern involving animal welfare issues.
Performance criteria:
a) The ethics of animal welfare are discussed.
b) Current areas of welfare concern are identified.
c) Possible approaches to the enhancement of animal welfare are identified and described.
Ranges:
Cultural and ethnic differences in the perception of animal welfare.
Intensive animal production systems, genetic engineering and welfare, live animal transport and slaughter.
Main areas of current animal welfare legislation.

Module description


This module aims to provide the underpinning scientific knowledge which is appropriate to an understanding of effective livestock production. It provides an introduction to the fundamental principles of animal science in as far as they relate to the relevant areas of anatomy, physiology, reproduction, structure and function of the udder, the hormonal control of lactation, animal health and issues concerned with animal welfare.