Accurately describe and differentiate the major life stages and major production stages of common animal species and explain typical behavioral patterns associated with each stage. They will be able to select appropriate methods of physical restraint for various animal species and calm situations and perform handling and restraint techniques safely and effectively. They will recognize the influence of the human-animal bond on animal care decisions and assess animal welfare on an individual and population level.

Conduct a thorough and organized physical examination, differentiating normal from common/obvious abnormal findings. They will be able to document these findings using standardized veterinary medical record keeping practices and communicate them using basic medical terminology. They will be able to analyze population data with assistance.

Identify the correct anatomical structures and basic physiological and immunological parameters of healthy animals and interpret these findings within the context of species-specific normal ranges.

Demonstrate proper infection control protocols, including hand hygiene, disinfection techniques, and isolation procedures, in simulated clinical settings and demonstrate proper biosecurity protocols across multiple animal population settings. Defines zoonoses and transboundary diseases. Identifies the pathobiology of the agents involved in animals and humans. Describes and applies methods to protect self and others from zoonotic disease transmission.

Formulate basic preventive healthcare plans for common animal species, incorporating appropriate vaccinations, parasite control measures, and nutritional recommendations, while considering factors such as age, breed, and physiological status. They will begin to understand options based on a spectrum of care, including their pros and cons.

Somewhat accurately use common veterinary medical terminology to describe anatomical structures, physiological processes, and disease conditions. Attempts to adapt communication style to meet the needs of others. Actively listens and fosters bidirectional communication in most situations.

Select, explain the principles and rationale behind, interpret, and perform routine diagnostic tests used in veterinary medicine with guidance. They will demonstrate a limited ability to adjust the diagnostic plan along a spectrum of care based on consideration of relevant factors.

Apply knowledge learned in one context to a context that may be unfamiliar in simulated case scenarios, integrating information from various experiential- and evidence-based sources (e.g., history, physical exam, diagnostic tests, scientific literature) to compare and contrast differential diagnoses, as well as basic diagnostic and treatment plans for common animal ailments. They will be able to communicate the basic treatment plans along a spectrum of care and patient/population outcomes in plain language.

Begin to recognize and analyze ethical, legal, economic and financial dilemmas in veterinary practice and research, and begin to identify relevant regulatory and spectrum of care frameworks to justify and understand the impact of their decisions. They will be able to demonstrate commitment to professional conduct and articulate the veterinarian’s role in society.

Communicate and collaborate with colleagues to seek input and demonstrate active listening skills (e.g. seeking input, utilizing and providing feedback). Actively listens and fosters bidirectional communication in most situations.