China’s growing obsession with pets has finally led to the nation’s first pet undergrad major. Beijing Agricultural University’s newest pet science and management major provides a well-rounded curriculum that covers essential topics such as pet nutrition and dietetics, where students learn to formulate balanced diets tailored to different breeds and life stages. The program also delves into animal behavior and training, teaching future professionals how to address common behavioral issues and strengthen the bond between pets and their owners.
Students gain foundational knowledge in veterinary care, focusing on preventive health measures, common illnesses and emergency first aid. For those interested in the business side of the industry, courses in pet entrepreneurship and management offer insights into running pet-related ventures, from grooming salons to pet tech startups. Ethical considerations, including pet welfare and responsible ownership, are also emphasized to ensure graduates uphold high standards in animal care.
In China, the pet industry is now worth approximately RMB 300 billion, making it clear that more and more families are treating pets like actual family.
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