This
unique course is delivered by an expert in reptile care and
contains the most up to date research into the keeping of reptiles in
captivity. A perfect course for pet shop owners & advisers,
veterinary staff, animal welfare officers as well as those
passionate about the care and welfare of captive reptiles.
Students
will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the most
important reptile welfare issues.
Reptiles
are increasingly popular as pets, recent research suggests that more
households keep reptiles than cats and dogs combined. Learn all about
reptile biological requirements, general health & welfare
needs, the illnesses they are prone to, as well as important
treatments that prevent or cure disease.
This
course consists of six modules, each of which includes in-depth
discussion of different aspects of captive reptile care. Short
activities will be set within each lesson to deepen and refresh
learning. A tutor will provide learning support throughout the course
via email and through an online discussion board.
Through
this course, students will be able to demonstrate knowledge and
understanding of the most important reptile issues.
What is a reptile? Taxonomy, biology and
physiology
We begin the course by introducing the reptile and discussing its place in the animal kingdom. Evolutionary
background is explored, and we examine some defining biological and physiological characteristics.
Reptiles
as pets: legal and ethical issues
Recent research suggests that more households keep reptiles as pets than cats and dogs combined. Why are
they such popular animals to have in the home? We examine the legal guidelines for keeping reptiles.
Module
3
Module
4
Staying
alive: general health and welfare needs
We
draw from our learning in modules 1 and 2 to explore the welfare needs
of reptiles, both in the wild and in captivity. We look at their core
biological requirements, learn about the illnesses they are prone to,
as well as important treatments that prevent or cure disease.
Captive breeding:
exploring the issues
Many
pet reptiles were bred in captivity. We examine the processes and
procedures involved. We evaluate the implications of captive breeding
on reptile conservation and
welfare.
Module
5
Module
6
For sale: an overview of the
international reptile trade
We explore the trade networks and evaluate sources of supply and demand.
Conservation: a global perspective on reptile survival
We round off the course by looking ahead to the future of reptiles. Having survived largely
unchanged for millions of years, the reptile now faces unprecedented threats. Where are the greatest
dangers, and what are the root causes? Most importantly, we explore how
we can get involved in helping to ensure the long-term future of the
reptile.
