Animal Handling Class Experiences First Hands-On Lesson With Small Mammals

The seven students of Animal Handling (2025FA-ANH-1001-B) experienced their first handling day on September 9 led by instructor Deborah Hess. Animal Handling is a class for students who are interested in veterinary studies or students who just love animals. 

Students practiced different types of restraints and holds used in the veterinary field, while taking notes on what they learned. All holds and restraints performed do not hurt the animals. 

The handling day consisted of traditional small mammals including cats and dogs; along with “exotic” small mammals including bunnies, hedgehogs, ferrets, and chinchillas. 

This class is held off campus at the Environmental Science Center, behind the University's baseball fields. Hess’s high spirited Corgi named Cody was excited to interact with students. 

“Cody is like a bowling ball with legs,” said Hess.

As the class continues, students will get to work with more types of animals such as reptiles, amphibians, and equines.