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Training in Animal Handling for Veterinary Students at Charles Sturt University, Australia

Charles Sturt University in New South Wales, Australia, is responding to a national need for veterinarians with the skills and attributes to fulfill roles in rural practice and the large-animal industries. Rural practitioners must competently and confidently handle a range of large animals if they are to build a relationship of mutual trust with clients and deliver effective animal-health services. Training in animal handling begins in the first year of the course with highly structured small-group practical classes involving cattle, horses, sheep, dogs, cats, pigs, poultry, and laboratory animals (rats and mice). Other experiences with animals in the first three years build on basic animal-handling skills while performing other veterinary activities. Students who provide documented evidence of prior animal-handling experiences are admitted, and learning and teaching strategies aim to enhance skills and knowledge. Rigorous examinations use a competency-based approach prior to extramural placements on farms and in veterinary practices. A continuing process of evaluation, review, and refinement will ensure continual improvement and graduate veterinarians with strong skills in animal handling.

Key Words: animal handling • competence • confidence

This article has been cited by other articles:

				J. Cavalieri Veterinary Student Responses to Learning Activities that Enhance Confidence and Ability in Pig Handling J Vet Med Educ, March 1, 2009; 36(1): 39 - 49. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]

				P. McGreevy Firm But Gentle: Learning to Handle with Care J Vet Med Educ, January 1, 2007; 34(5): 539 - 541. [Full Text] [PDF]

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