Terps Get Hands-On With Common Companion Animal Species
Mary Barsoum '27 guides Australian shepherd Boh through weave poles as part of a demonstration in the class ANSC 250 Companion Animal Care and Management.
Image Credit: Stephanie S. Cordle
The distinguished guest in Lecturer Kristina Mayo’s class last week shot through a plastic tunnel, bobbed between poles and jumped a hurdle. Then he barked and begged for a snack.
Boh, a 40-pound Australian shepherd who’s competed in dog agility competitions throughout the country, was showing off his obedience and athletic skills for an adoring crowd in the Animal Sciences Building courtyard. He was visiting “Companion Animal Care and Management,” one of the most popular classes offered in UMD’s Department of Animal and Avian Sciences.
Students learn about the anatomy, health concerns, husbandry, care and breeding of species including dogs, cats, birds, fish, reptiles, rodents and amphibians as well as more unusual pets, like sugar gliders and hedgehogs. Each week, an animal ambassador visits the class, giving students an up-close-and-furry (or scaly) look at the pets they may be treating as future veterinarians or caregivers.
“There’s only so much you can show through video and other descriptions,” said Mayo, a mostly retired veterinarian. “Having these animals and their handlers in class also allows the students to make connections with professionals in the field—breeders, raisers and trainers.”
