Hands-on learning: Veterinary students dive into animal husbandry experiences

The first-year cohort of the UNIC Veterinary School recently undertook an outdoor practical at the Cavalier Riding School, under the guidance of Clinical Assistant Professor Daphne Mavrides. During their visit, they delved into essential management aspects of equine husbandry. With the expertise of equine specialist Dr Stavros Yiannikouris, they practiced various handling techniques and conducted basic clinical examinations on horses.

This visit is part of an ongoing series for the animal husbandry course, which introduces students to the clinical handling and management of diverse species, ranging from cattle, pigs, sheep, poultry to many others. This course also educates students on the optimal environment, housing, and welfare standards required for these species in a farm setting.

After their hands-on experience at the equine stables, the veterinary students have been continuing their educational journey with weekly visits to different establishments. In one of their recent sessions, they explored the Agricultural Research Institute Farm. Here, they gained insights into the health, management, and welfare of cattle, sheep, and goats, and observed the routine milking procedures for these animals. These experiences are integral to their training, ensuring they acquire essential hands-on skills, a cornerstone of the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine programme’s Day 1 skills curriculum.

The Veterinary School would like to express its gratitude to Ms Helen Christofides, General Manager of Cavalier Riding School, and Mr Dionysis Sparaggis, Farm Manager at the Agricultural Research Institute. Their invaluable support made these visits highly beneficial for the students.