You will get the opportunity to learn hands-on veterinary examination techniques at working ranches and farms as well as learn about large animal agriculture in Belize, including analyzing laboratory specimens in a laboratory. Lectures focus on the selection, nutrition, reproduction and management of horses, beef cattle, goats, swine and sheep. Other topics taught in this course include animal anatomy and physiology, animal agriculture economy, animal diseases and animal research. On Saturday, the course includes a free small animal clinic which may involve vaccinations, physical exams, or surgeries, depending on what’s needed in the community at the time. Students will have free time on Saturday afternoon, and there is the option for a fun and affordable beach trip on Sunday.

In this course you will develop a basic understanding of the role of livestock in agriculture (Belize and globally). The course goal is to expose students to the practice of farm animal medicine and the production systems involved. It will introduce basic concepts and principles of animal nutrition, growth, health, behavior, reproduction, and genetics, as well as practical commercial applications, such as ration formulation, disease prevention, artificial insemination, genetic selection, and crossbreeding systems. Labs and field trips to a variety of farms in the area provide opportunities to gain practical experience and a better understanding of the lecture material.