Unit 1 Content Overview

This unit provides an introduction to the gross anatomy of the common integument of the domesticated animals we are studying (cat, dog, horse, ruminant, pig).  The lab will be complemented by content provided in the lecture. The focus will be on external features of the common integument (as may be appreciated during a physical examination) with comparative anatomy across the species considered.

Students will dissect carnivore cadavers (feline and canine) and learn most of the comparative large animal (ungulate) anatomy from prosected cadavers and other specimens and models provided.

After identifying external common integument features, the aim of the lab is to reflect the skin from the LEFT side of the carnivore cadaver, provided to each team.

How to use this guide

To facilitate efficient dissection progress, the lab guide is generally organized into carnivore dissection sections, with ungulate comparative anatomy at the end of each section. Appendices contain helpful details to support greater understanding.  A terms list concludes labs and/or a section of material, and these lists are provided  as a study guide.

Pay close attention to clinical relevance information in magenta text boxes to help connect the lab content to what is discussed in lecture. Content in blue text boxes contains dissection instructions, while content in green text boxes indicates observation required only and may state the structures that should be identified following successful dissection.

Where relevant, we have tried to follow dissection instructions with dissection photos. These photos may be clicked to enlarge, and Pressbooks will return you to your place in the guide when you use the back button. If photos are unsourced in the guide, you may assume that they were taken by the NCSU Anatomy Team and labeled for your use.