Description should include
- required PPE
- the natural nonaggressive and aggressive behaviors of various exotic animals (e.g., rodents, rabbits, reptiles, birds, fish)
- the effect of stress on each species and methods for calming animals prior to moving
- safety hazards and restraint issues specific to each species
- identification of potential escape routes and methods of decreasing risk of escape
- standard methods and safe practices for moving and transporting the animal to minimize injury and stress.
Process/Skill Questions:
- What behaviors would a reptile exhibit to indicate it may respond aggressively to handling?
- Why is it important to examine the type of caging the reptile is in prior to attempting to remove it from the cage?
- What types of restraint equipment could be used to assist in handling a reptile?
- What potential injuries could occur to the animal due to inappropriate restraint or handling? What potential injuries could occur to the handler?
- How can using the wrong equipment cause disease or injury to fish?
- What should be done to prepare a new tank prior to attempting to move fish?
- What are the methods of safely handling and restraining common pet birds?
- Why is it important to understand bird anatomy as it pertains to restraint methods?