First-year anatomy students show off their completed autonomous zone socks. Photo by McLean Gunderson.

First-year anatomy students creating autonomous zone socks on models. Photo by McLean Gunderson.

First-year students drawing and coloring the autonomous zones on stockinette on canine models. Photo by McLean Gunderson.

Canine Autonomous Zones & Reflexes

Methods and Materials

2 Inch stockinette is cut into 24 inch lengths and tied at one end. Canine fore and hind limb models are covered with Glad Press’n Seal® to protect them from staining. The stockinette is applied over the limbs. A marker is used to outline the regions of autonomous zone innervation. Additional markers are used to color in the outlined areas to match the key. Paw pads are included in the drawings to orient students after removal from the model limb. Students are encouraged to keep the socks for future study.

Active Learning Exercise Information

Forelimb and Hindlimb Innervation- Autonomous Zones and Reflexes

Don’t let anyone rob you of your imagination, your creativity, or your curiosity. It’s your place in the world; it’s your life. Go on and do all you can with it, and make it the life you want to live.

Mae Jemison (engineer, physician, astronaut)