Dissection of the animals in this course requires that large areas of skin and underlying connective tissue be removed. Most of the skinning and removal of underlying tissue can be accomplished easily with the use of a sharp knife (as opposed to only using a scalpel). We suggest that you use the scalpel to make the initial cut through the skin and slowly create a free edge. Once enough of the skin has been dissected free of underlying connective tissue a ?free? corner can be grasped with a forceps. Lift the free corner of skin and pull it away from the working area. Continue to carefully break down the subcutaneous connective tissue with a scalpel or knife until the free area is large enough to be safely grasped with your hand. Once you can hold the skin flap with your hand pull strongly to stretch the subcutaneous connective tissue. Use a light touch with the knife?s edge to break the stretched connective tissue staying close to the skin ? as tension is applied a natural plane of dissection will become evident as a white area near the skin. After reflecting the skin, remove the subcutaneous connective tissue and fat from the muscles. Removing the fascia from the muscle will reveal orientation of the muscle fibers. Do not cut into large vessels such as the jugular vein or accidently remove superficial nerves. If you need any assistance please ask.