Unit name | Animal Welfare |
---|---|
Unit code | VETSM0003 |
Credit points | 15 |
Level of study | M/7 |
Teaching block(s) |
Teaching Block 1 (weeks 1 - 12) |
Unit director | Mr. Wotton |
Open unit status | Not open |
Pre-requisites |
None |
Co-requisites |
None |
School/department | Bristol Veterinary School |
Faculty | Faculty of Health Sciences |
Large numbers of cattle, pigs, sheep and poultry are reared and killed for meat. This unit describes the major factors influencing on-farm animal welfare, and animal welfare at stunning and slaughter, and the consequences for carcase and meat quality. The legislative framework is also described.
Aims:
This Unit aims to develop the student’s interest in and knowledge and understanding of:
i) the factors that improve or adversely affect animal welfare on-farm, post-farm and at slaughter, and their effects on carcase and meat quality
ii) methodology used to assess welfare and the legislative framework
1. Students will be able to demonstrate a knowledge and understanding of:
i) the factors that improve or adversely affect animal welfare on-farm, post-farm and at slaughter, and the relationship between good welfare and good meat quality
ii) methodology used to assess welfare and the legislative framework
2. Students will be able to:
i) analyse, synthesise and summarise information critically.
ii) apply knowledge and understanding to address industry problems.
iii) apply critical thinking to published information.
Knowledge and understanding is developed through pursuing a structured syllabus, evaluating directed reading, and engaging in problem solving exercises. From 2009/10 the unit will be taught in two formats.
Knowledge and understanding is assessed by a combination of coursework (30% of available marks) and a 3 hour written examination (70% of available marks). Coursework usually consists of a fully referenced essay (2500 words max.) and a critique of a research paper.
There will be a strong reliance on original research papers. The following books are also helpful: