Body Condition Scoring for Common Animal Species (Free)

December 18, 2024 ‐ Virtual – 9:00am-11:00am MST

Overview

This course is designed for animal control officers, animal services personnel, animal welfare professionals and shelter staff to learn the proper methods of body condition scoring (BCS) for various species, including horses, dogs, cats, ruminates, camelids, and more. The course is taught by Dr. Charlotte Robinson, an expert in veterinary science.

What is Body Condition Scoring?

Body Condition Scoring (BCS) is a practical and standardized method used to assess the health and nutritional status of animals. BCS involves visually and physically examining the animal’s body and scoring it based on fat coverage and muscle definition. It helps in identifying underweight, overweight, or optimally conditioned animals.

Importance of Body Condition Scoring in Animal Health

1. Nutritional Assessment:
   • Ensures animals receive appropriate diets based on their current condition.
   • Helps in formulating feeding programs to achieve optimal health.
2. Health Monitoring:
   • Early detection of health issues such as obesity or malnutrition.
   • Tracking changes in body condition can indicate underlying health problems.
3. Breeding Management:
   • Ensures breeding animals are in ideal condition to maximize reproductive success.
   • Prevents issues related to over or underweight breeding stock.
4. Animal Welfare:
   • Promotes the overall well-being and longevity of animals.
   • Ensures animals in shelters and under care are in good health.

Course Objectives

• Understand the principles and importance of body condition scoring.
• Learn to accurately assess the body condition of various species.
• Develop skills to apply BCS in practical settings for health monitoring and management.
• Promote animal welfare through proper nutritional and health assessments.

Body condition scoring is a vital tool in the assessment and management of animal health. This course equips animal control officers, shelter staff, and other animal services personnel with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively use BCS in their daily work, ensuring the well-being of the animals under their care.

Continuing Education Credit

Upon successful completion, students will receive a certificate of completion and become eligible to apply for continuing education credits from Colorado State University. Veterinary professionals may apply to receive Continuing Education Units (CEUs) from the CSU Veterinary Teaching Hospital.

This class is approved for Colorado Bureau of Animal Protection Agents for CE credit.

Tuition, Registration & Payment

Tuition for this class is Free

Registration should be completed by December 18,  2024.

Please email us, info@code3associates.org, with any questions.

Details on Virtual Class

• Our virtual classes are taken via computer with the ability for students to interact with each other and the instructors.
• Computer with webcam, microphone and reliable internet access are required for attendance.
• 100% attendance is required with participation options available through the student’s microphone and/or through type-written communications.
• Class materials will be emailed in advance in pdf form – students are expected to download the pdf before the start of class.
• Class will be held December 18, 2024 from 9:00 am to 11:00 am MOUNTAIN STANDARD TIME