13140 - Husbandry of Companion Animals

Learning outcomes

At the end of the course, students will have acquired fundamental knowledge of the main mammalian companion animals, with particular emphasis on dogs and cats. In particular, students will be able to:

• understand the fundamental principles of dog and cat breeding and management, with particular reference to genetic selection, nutrition, and animal welfare;
• critically compare different breeding and management systems for dogs and cats;
• interpret and use information related to breeding animals (sires and dams) to support informed breeding decisions.

Course contents

1. The Companion Animal Sector

• Evolution of the role of dogs and cats in society.
• The pet industry: national and international perspectives.
• National and European legislation governing companion animal breeding.
• Professional roles within the companion animal sector.
• Ethical aspects of companion animal breeding.

2. Reproductive Biology and Breeding

• Fundamentals of reproductive anatomy and physiology in dogs and cats.
• Reproduction, mating management, and breeding strategies.
• Artificial insemination and assisted reproductive techniques.
• Pregnancy management, with particular emphasis on animal welfare and nutrition.

3. Genetics and Breeding Programs

• Principles of quantitative genetics.
• Inbreeding and genetic diversity.
• Pedigree analysis and management.
• Responsible breeding strategies.
• Inherited disorders.
• Genetic testing in breeding programs.
• Selection of breeding animals.

4. Animal Welfare and Behaviour

• Behavioural needs of dogs and cats.
• Behavioural development of puppies and kittens.
• Socialization.
• Environmental enrichment.
• Animal welfare indicators.
• Chronic stress and its assessment.
• Welfare assessment methods.

5. Nutrition

• Nutritional requirements of dogs and cats.
• Nutrition of breeding females.
• Nutrition of puppies and kittens.
• Environmental sustainability of pet food production.

6. Breeding Facilities and Management

• Design and organization of breeding facilities.
• Environmental conditions and microclimate.
• Lighting systems.
• Hygiene and biosecurity.
• Environmental enrichment.
• Group management.

7. Innovative Technologies in Companion Animal Breeding

• Sensor technologies for animal monitoring.
• Wearable devices.
• Artificial intelligence applications.
• Computer vision systems.
• Smart collars.
• Precision Pet Farming.

Readings/Bibliography

The teaching materials consist of the lecture notes and presentations provided by the course instructor and made available to students through the University's Virtuale online learning platform.

With regard to the module on dog and cat nutrition, the recommended reference textbook is:

• AA.VV. Nutrizione e alimentazione del cane e del gatto. Edagricole, Bologna. Students are required to refer in particular to the following chapters: "Digestive and Metabolic Peculiarities of Dogs and Cats" and "Assessment of the Nutritional Status of Dogs and Cats."

Many of the topics covered during the course are also addressed in the EFSA scientific report:

• EFSA. Scientific and Technical Assistance on Welfare Aspects Related to Housing and Health of Cats and Dogs in Commercial Breeding Establishments, available at the following link

Teaching methods

The course will be taught in Italian through a combination of the following teaching and learning activities:

• Lectures: lectures will provide the fundamental knowledge, principles, and theoretical background related to the topics covered in the course.
• Seminars: seminars delivered by the course instructor and guest speakers will include presentations and interactive discussions, encouraging critical reflection on specific topics and scientific approaches.
• Discussion- and research-based learning: students will actively participate in guided discussions and research-oriented activities, developing skills in scientific reasoning, critical thinking, and the interpretation of scientific evidence.

Assessment methods

Student learning will be assessed through a final oral examination in Italian.

During the oral examination, students will be assessed on both their theoretical knowledge and their ability to apply it to the topics covered during the course. The evaluation will take into account the overall level of preparation, the ability to critically analyse and establish connections among the different course topics, as well as the appropriate use of technical and discipline-specific terminology. The examination will consist of at least four questions, covering the entire course syllabus.

The first question will focus on a topic chosen by the student. Students may support their presentation with PowerPoint slides, allowing them to demonstrate their ability to synthesize information and communicate scientific concepts effectively.

To pass the examination, students must obtain a minimum mark of 18/30.

The final grade will be awarded according to the following criteria:

• 30–30 cum laude: comprehensive and in-depth knowledge of the course topics, excellent critical thinking and ability to integrate concepts across different subject areas, and full command of the appropriate scientific and technical terminology.
• 27–29: thorough knowledge of the course topics, good analytical and critical thinking skills, and appropriate use of discipline-specific terminology.
• 23–26: adequate technical preparation, satisfactory analytical skills, although not particularly in-depth, and clear communication using appropriate language.
• 18–22: sufficient knowledge of the fundamental course topics, basic analytical skills, and communication that is formally acceptable.

Insufficient preparation, inappropriate use of technical terminology, or an inability to demonstrate familiarity with the course topics and teaching materials will result in failure to pass the examination.

Use of Artificial Intelligence during the examination: the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools during the oral examination is strictly prohibited. Any use of AI constitutes a violation of academic integrity.

The oral examination lasts at least 20 minutes.

Students with Specific Learning Disorders (SLDs) or temporary or permanent disabilities may take the examination using concept maps and/or other approved accommodations, in accordance with current legislation and University regulations. Students are encouraged to contact the University's Office for Students with Disabilities and Specific Learning Disorders well in advance (https://site.unibo.it/studenti-con-disabilita-e-dsa/en ). The Office will propose appropriate accommodations, which must be submitted to the course instructor for approval at least 15 days before the examination. The instructor will assess their suitability in relation to the intended learning outcomes of the course.

The dates, times, and venues of the examination sessions are published on the AlmaEsami platform. If necessary, students may also contact the course instructor to arrange an additional examination date when appropriate.

Teaching tools

The course will make use of the following teaching materials and learning resources:

• lecture slides and additional teaching materials prepared by the course instructor;
• original research articles and review papers from the scientific literature;
• seminars delivered by guest speakers and external experts;
• guided discussions and interactive classroom activities;
• student presentations and seminars.

The use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is permitted to support students in studying the course materials and enhancing their understanding of the topics covered.

Regular attendance is strongly recommended, as it promotes a deeper understanding of the course content and encourages active participation in classroom discussions and learning activities.

Office hours

See the website of Martina Zappaterra