Course description

The purpose of this course is to provide students with core principles of science through the study of cat and dog biology. The course is divided into three modules: 1) The evolution and genetics, 2) Physiology and life cycles, 3) Nutrition and energy requirements. The course will be a combination of short lectures, in-class exercises based on readings and lectures, weekly workshops to reflect and develop arguments related to material covered in lectures, and case-studies at the end of each module.

Outcome 1: Use the basic principles of inheritance to assess impacts of selective breeding on cats and dogs.

Outcome 2: Compare and contrast the physiological systems and life cycles of cats and dogs.

Outcome 3: Explain the divergence in feeding strategies and nutrient requirements between cats and dogs based on their respective evolution.

Outcome 4: Interpret pet food labels.

Outcome 5: Generate arguments on controversial issues that relate to the evolution and biology of felids and canids (e.g., selective breeding and brachycephalic dogs, grain-free diets and misinformation, veganism and welfare of cats and dogs).

Summer 2024: Online course

Nathalie Lucie Trottier
Nathalie Lucie Trottier
Professor of Animal Science
Section ID:ANSC 1500 001-LEC
Number:1073
Session:Summer 3-week 1
Class dates:June 3-21, 2024
Final exam/project due:Friday June 21, 11:59 PM (see Final exams)
Time / room:
Mode of instruction:Online (async)
Credit:3
Grade:Graded
Instructor:Trottier, N. (nlt35)
Max. enroll:25
Notes:High School level biology background required
To enroll:
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This course is open to all registrants, including undergraduates and precollege students.