The course is intended to provide veterinary students with a foundation in animal behaviour, handling and training. The course will provide an introduction to the scientific study of behaviour, including the evolution of behaviour, and emotional and behavioural health. Students will learn about the normal behaviour of species of key veterinary importance (cats, dogs, horses, cattle, small ruminants, pigs, and poultry, plus other species of importance in Hong Kong), including the assessment of body language for each species. Students will be taught about learning theory and how learning theory is used for effective (and ineffective) training. The course will also cover the principles of low stress handling for the key species as well as introducing low stress veterinary practice. 

Notes regarding continuous assessments:

1. A penalty of 5% of the total marks for the assessment task will be deducted per working day for late submissions, and no marks will be awarded for submissions more than 10 working days late.

2. For the poster presentation, this must be given in class time at the time scheduled. If the student does not present on this day they will be offered one other time within two weeks of the original date but will be subject to a 25% penalty. In case of illness (with accompanying medical certificate) no penalty will be applied.

3. For the practical class assessments, these must be completed during the scheduled practical sessions. If these sessions are missed, or students are late, no make-up opportunity will be provided and the student will be awarded a zero. In case of illness (with an accompanying medical certificate) or pre-approved absence, an alternative assessment task may be arranged by the course leader on an individual basis.