General Nursing
What are the Five Freedoms of Animal Welfare?
Freedom from hunger/thirst, discomfort, pain/injury/disease, fear/distress, and the freedom to express normal behavior
What technique is recommended for securely handling a rabbit?
The Bunny Burrito method — wrap the rabbit in a towel for comfort and security
What’s one key difference between handling exotic animals and domestic pets?
Exotics require species-specific restraint methods to reduce stress and injury.
What zoonotic disease is commonly linked to reptiles?
Salmonellosis
What’s the first thing you should do if an exotic animal escapes?
Remain calm, reduce noise, and use barriers or towels to contain the animal
Why is pain assessment critical in veterinary care?
Animals can’t verbalize pain, so recognizing behavioral and physiological changes is key
How should you safely hold a guinea pig?
Use the Two-Hand Technique — one hand under the chest and the other supporting the hindquarters
What’s one early sign of stress in rabbits?
Rapid breathing, wide eyes, or excessive kicking
Which disease is known as Parrot Fever?
Psittacosis
When handling birds, what’s one key area you should never apply pressure to?
The chest — birds need free chest movement to breathe
What’s one way a veterinary technician can reduce patient stress?
Using calm tones, slow movements, and minimizing restraint
What’s a safe method for handling small birds?
The One-Hand Hold — encircle the body with one hand while allowing the head to remain free
How do some lizards defend themselves under stress?
Some species can drop their tail when threatened
What virus is transmitted by rodents and can cause illness in humans
LCMV – Lymphocytic Choriomeningitis Virus
What equipment should you use to safely restrain a snake?
A snake hook or tongs for control.
Describe the Vet Tech Evaluation Process
Gathering patient data, identifying concerns, and assisting with treatment plans
How should you restrain a snake safely?
support the snake’s body evenly along its length and avoid grabbing the tail.
Which exotic species is prone to spinal injuries if handled incorrectly?
Rabbits — always support their hindquarters
Which aquatic-related bacteria can infect open wounds?
Mycobacterium marinum
What’s one key precaution to prevent zoonotic disease transmission?
Hand hygiene — always wash thoroughly before and after handling
What is the role of a vet tech in ensuring patient comfort during hospitalization?
Monitoring pain, ensuring clean bedding, and minimizing patient anxiety.
What equipment can improve safety when handling aggressive lizards?
Towels can help safely immobilize agitated lizards
What’s one important environmental factor to control when handling small birds?
Temperature — keep the room warm to prevent chilling
What fungal infection can rabbits and rodents transmit?
Ringworm
Why is sedation appropriate for some exotic patients?
Sedation may be required for patients with high Fear, Anxiety, and Stress (FAS) scores for staff and patient safety