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Animal Science

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Course Description: 

Animal Science is a rigorous two year Career and Technical Education program designed to explore the diverse field of animal science. Students will recognize the important roles animals play in society from individual ownership to scientific research with far reaching implications. Animal Science students will acquire basic knowledge and skills necessary for further study or entry level positions in animal science and related fields. This technical course teaches specialized and advanced skills in areas such as veterinary assisting, the care and handling of animals in a laboratory or veterinary setting, dog grooming, and kennel/pet shop management. Classroom opportunities include the development of animal handling skills and the study of animal behaviors through care and observation of animals housed in the classroom. This class also covers animal anatomy and physiology, care, behavior, breeding, body systems, genetics, training, and management of various animals. Business management and professionalism are a must and are practiced daily as the students run their own dog grooming shop and dog daycare. Course material is enhanced with hands-on activities that include daily lab/clinic and field trips. Students are encouraged to participate in FFA and SkillsUSA activities and competitions that will enhance instruction and provide the opportunity to develop leadership skills.

Topics Covered:
Orientation
Occupational/Safety
Animal Care, Management, and Restraint (Rats, Guinea Pigs, Gerbil, Rabbits, Hamsters Chinchillas, Ferrets, Cow, Goat, Horse)
Grooming (Introduction)
Animal Reproduction, Genetics/Breeding Projects
Business Management-Senior Operation of Groom Clinic
Grooming (Advanced)
Animal First Aid and CPR
Veterinary Clinical/Nursing Skills
Dog and Cat Care and Management
Health and Disease Control
Nutrition
Exotic species
Leadership and Employment Skills

Offered At: 

Belmont Career and Technical Education Center

Ellicottville Career and Technical Education Center

Olean Career and Technical Education Center

Program Goal: 

Upon successful completion of the two year Animal Science Program, students will have the basic knowledge, expectations, experiences, and hands-on skills vital for future study and entry level careers within the Animal Sciences and related fields.

Projects and Experiences: 

In-house dog grooming salon open to community and run by students with instructor supervision.

Breeding project

Visitations to veterinary clinics, SPCA, zoo, farms

Guest speakers

Daily animal care and clinical duties

Students are required to create a professional portfolio showcasing their knowledge and experiences.

Assessments: 

Students will be assessed based on participation and interaction in the classroom laboratory as well as written tests.

The field work will be assessed on a daily basis through mentor/ instructor observation of student participation, professionalism, personal appearance, ability to follow directions and safety rules, willingness to learn, and interaction with clients and pets.

National Occupational Competency Testing Institute (NOCTI) Exam in Small

Animal Science

Portfolio

Certifications: 

May earn New York State Technical Endorsement on high school diploma

Local Employment Opportunities: 
  • Veterinary Offices
  • Pet Groomers
  • Animal Rescue Organizations
  • Pet Stores
  • Dairy Farms
  • Stables
Career Paths and Potential Salaries: 
  • Small Animal Veterinarian - $64,744
  • Large Animal Veterinarian - $64,242
  • Veterinarian Technician - $ 40,550
  • Veterinarian Technician Assistant - $37,000
  • Veterinary Office Manager - $44,720
  • Kennel Worker - $27,000
  • Production Animal Careers - $32,350
  • Zoo Keeper - $29,000
  • Veterinary Assistant - $34,000
  • Feed Store Owner - $34,000
  • Pharmaceutical Sales - $104,000
  • Pet store worker - $30,000
  • Animal trainer - $22,942
  • Biologist - $39,859
  • Nutritionist - $50,590
  • Groomer - $30,263
  • Animal Control Officer - $17,077 
  • Veterinary Dentist - $92,000
  • Wildlife Conservation - $39,178 Source: Monster.com salary wizard
Suggested Courses for Success: 

Biology, Chemistry, Math, Public Speaking, ELA, Communication Skills, Business courses

High School Credits: 

Earn 7 credits including:
1 Integrated Science
1 Integrated ELA
1 Specialized Math

Earn College Credits: 
SUNY Cobleskill 3 credits for ANSC 140 (Small Animal Management)
Alfred State College

3 credits Technical Elective in Agriculture Technology program   - or -
6 credits Veterinary Technical Elective in Veterinary Technology program

Student Work: 

Check back for samples of student work.