Welfare Flashcards
Name 3 common health problems in dogs?
Obesity
Ear infections
Arthritis
Dental Problems
Hip Dysplasia
Heartworm
Fleas
Worms
What are examples of meeting the need to exhibit normal behaviour patterns in cats?
- provide scratching posts
- enrichment to promote hunting behaviours
- access to high up spaces
What are examples of meeting the need for a suitable diet in cats?
- keep food and water away from litter tray
- keep food separate from water
What are some essential components of a bird’s cage setup to ensure good welfare?
Perches
Toys and enrichment
Enough space to stretch out full wingspan (minimum)
Food and water
Hideouts/shelter
Cage Placement
What are some signs that indicate a bird may be experiencing stress or poor welfare?
Feather Plucking
Changes in vocalisation
Aggressive Behaviour
Loss of appetite and weight loss
Lethargy/inactivity
Changes in faeces
What are some common health problems that pet birds may experience?
Respiratory infection: can be caused by harmful pathogens or environmental factors e.g. poor ventilation or exposure to drafts.
Nutritional deficiencies such as vitamin A deficiency, calcium deficiency, or vitamin D deficiency.
Parasites such as mites, lice, and worms can infest pet birds, causing irritation, feather damage, skin lesions, and other health problems.
Beak and nail overgrowth are common in pet birds and can occur due to genetic factors, nutritional imbalances, or lack of opportunities for natural wear.
Obesity is a common health problem in pet birds, particularly those fed a high-fat, high-calorie diet or with limited opportunities for exercise.
Describe the importance of providing appropriate heating and lighting for reptiles in captivity
Reptiles are ectothermic and rely on external sources to thermoregulate.
Access to a proper heat source is vital for digestion, metabolism, immune function, and overall physiological health. Inadequate heating can lead to lethargy, reduced appetite, and behavioural abnormalities.
Require exposure to ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation to synthesize vitamin D3, which is essential for calcium metabolism and bone health. UVB light enables reptiles to absorb calcium effectively, preventing metabolic bone disease (MBD).
Providing appropriate lighting conditions, including a day-night cycle with periods of light and darkness, helps maintain these circadian rhythms.
How can you ensure that the humidity levels in a reptile enclosure are suitable for the species being kept?
Research your specific species requirements beforehand.
Use a hygrometer to monitor humidity levels accurately within the reptile enclosure.
Select an appropriate substrate that retains moisture well and can help maintain humidity levels within the enclosure.
Ensure proper ventilation within the reptile enclosure to prevent the build up of stagnant air and excess moisture, which can lead to respiratory problems and mould growth.
Mist or spray the enclosure with water regularly to increase humidity levels.
Remember some reptiles live in dry, arid environments, so providing high humidity would be negative for their welfare.
What are some strategies for minimising stress and anxiety in dogs housed in kennel environments?
Provide adequate space, to allow free movement
Comfortable bedding
Environmental enrichment
Regular exercise
Provide areas for dogs to retreat away from other dogs.
How can you ensure that dogs in kennels receive appropriate veterinary care and preventive healthcare?
require a record of previous vaccinations prior to dogs stay
train members of staff to recognise signs of illness and practice good biosecurity.
have emergency care protocols in place
If dog is there for a long stay implement deworming/flea treatment
Describe the importance of implementing effective management practices and protocols to ensure the safety and security of dogs in kennels.
Kennels should be designed and maintained to prevent dogs from escaping. Secure fencing, gates, and enclosures help ensure that dogs remain safely contained
Effective management practices help minimise the risk of aggressive interactions between dogs. Proper socialisation, careful grouping of compatible dogs, and supervision during playtime can help prevent fights and injuries.
Kennels should have protocols in place to prevent the spread of infectious diseases among dogs. This includes proper sanitation practices, vaccination requirements, quarantine procedures for sick dogs, and regular disinfection of common area
Kennel staff should be trained to monitor the health and behaviour of dogs in their care.
Discuss the importance of implementing biosecurity protocols to prevent disease outbreaks in livestock.
Biosecurity protocols help prevent the introduction of infectious diseases into livestock facilities.
By controlling access to the premises and implementing measures to reduce the risk of disease transmission, biosecurity measures can prevent pathogens from entering the herd or flock
Implementing biosecurity protocols helps protect the health and well-being of livestock by minimizing the risk of exposure to infectious agents and pathogens.
Some diseases affecting livestock can also pose risks to human health; Zoonotic diseases.
What are some common health issues in livestock?
Bovine TB
Avian Influenza
Parasitic infection
Foot and hoof issues
Heat stress (especially pigs)
Mastitis (dairy cattle)
Respiratory issues
