Exotic Animal Nursing

Knowledge acquired in the 1st year Curricular Unit of Companion, exotic and laboratory animals.

In theoretical-practical classes, besides the theoretical exposition of the topics and the use of audiovisual resources, case studies and bibliographic research-oriented work will be carried out on some topics of interest, with oral presentation.

Identify anatomical and physiological, nutritional, and management particularities of different types of exotic animals.
Know the ideal conditions of management, environment, food, and welfare for breeding exotic animals in captivity.
Recognize changes in physiological parameters, behavior, and well-being.
Learn handling and restraint techniques appropriate to a safe clinical act.
Understand the diagnostic tests and techniques used in these species.
Know methods of drug administration in different animal species.
Understand the procedures required for technical support in the operating room.

For each group/species of exotic animals most commonly seen as companion animals (small mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians) the following syllabus will be covered:
– Anatomical and physiological particularities of the musculoskeletal, skin, respiratory, digestive, urinary, reproductive, and hematological systems.
– Housing, general management, diet.
– Normal biological and physiological parameters.
– Major medical diseases.
– Medical and sanitary prophylaxis.
Nursing in consultation and hospitalization:
– Handling and restraints methods
– Recognition of signs/symptoms of diseases.
– Diagnostic aids: Blood samples, swabs, biopsies, X-rays, ultrasounds.
-Therapeutic techniques: drug and fluid administration, nutritional support, esophageal intubation.
– Conditions and care in hospitalization.
– Emergency cases
Operating room nursing:
– Main surgical conditions.
– Preparation of the patient for surgery.
– Traqueal intubation.
– Monitoring of anesthesia.

NAO

Carpenter J. 2005. Exotic animal Formulary. EUA: Saunders Elsevier.
Cooper, J. E., Dutton, C. J. 2003. Chapter 10- Exotic Pets and Wildlife. In: Veterinary Nursing – Edited by D R Lane and B Cooper. 3ª edição. UK: Butterworth-Heinemann.
Girling, S. 2013. Veterinary Nursing of Exotic Pets. 2ª edição. NY, EUA: John Wiley & Sons Ltd, 376 pp.
Judah V, Nuttall K. 2008. Exotic Animal Care and Management. Canada: Thomson Corporation.
Meredith, A. and Delaney, C. J. 2010. BSAVA Manual of Exotic Pets. 5th edition. BSAVA British Small Animal Veterinary Association. (ISBN: 9781905319169);
Mitchell M, Junior T. 2009. Manual of exotic pet practice. EUA: Elsevier Saunders.