A&P and Animals?

I did not have any animal dissection in A&PI lab, but all of A&P II lab we worked on different systems of the cat through the semester. I thought cat dissection would be difficult because I have cats, but really, I just approached it in a clinical manner and had no problem. The cats have been shaved so they don't resemble our pets too much. I just requested not to get a grey cat because my cats are grey. Also, the source of these cats is from the many animals that are already being euthanized in shelters, so at least they have had some purpose.

We had pigs for my A&P class. I was nervous, and wasn't sure I could do it, but I'm glad I did, we learned so much!

There was one girl who would either not show up for lab those days, or she would go to the bathroom until we were done, or feign sickness, etc. to get out of even looking, much less doing. Towards the end of the quarter, our prof. took her aside and told her if she couldn't bring herself to take part in this learning experience, then she should consider changing her chosen profession. He told all of us that we had to treat our "animals" with respect, and the best way to show that respect was to learn as much as possible from the experience, and not waste such a great opportunity to learn. I'm glad I got over my squeamishness, and learned as much as I could!

You'll get over it too, and since I've seen the cats used, I can tell you they don't really look like the pets you and I are used to. As long as you don't see them that way, you should be fine!

I'm an animal lover and a vegan. I did cats in high school A&P many years ago. They were cats set to be put down at shelters. It is a shame that there is such an overpopulation but I'd rather them be put to use for those studying anatomy than burned in an incinerator. I've been told that our college also uses cats. I, for some reason, am able to compartmentalize the fact that I'm doing what I'm doing to learn. If there are better ways out there, I'd hope they would be utilized for future students but for now I deal with what I need to do.

Thanks everyone for the replies. It's helped a lot. :)