Veterinary Technician

Description:

This course studies the anatomy and physiology of systems in both small and large animal species. Topics include cardiovascular, respiratory, urinary, reproductive and genetics, endocrine, integumentary system, and special senses. Laboratory sessions involve dissections; and discussions about common pathological conditions affecting these systems in small and large animal species.

• Hours: 70
• Credits: 5
• Pre-Requisites: ANAT1130
• CoRequisites:
• Estimated required text and/or learning resource costs: Not available at this time.

Description: This course introduces the role of the veterinary assistant in research facilities. Topics include species used in research, lab animal housing, environmental enrichment, safe handling, treatment procedures, nutrition and facility sanitation. Students are also introduced to the Canadian Council of Animal Care standards that relate to ethical and humane care in a research setting.

• Hours: 28
• Credits: 2
• Pre-Requisites:
• CoRequisites:
• Estimated required text and/or learning resource costs: Not available at this time.

Description:

This course introduces diagnostic testing methods in a lab, focusing on quality control, equipment maintenance and proper documentation of findings. Topics include identifying micro-organisms, assessing patients for parasitic and viral infections, evaluating the results of fungal cultures, performing fecal flotations and sediments, acquiring packed cell volumes, CBC, total protein, red and white blood cell counts, and partial urinalyses.

• Hours: 42
• Credits: 2
• Pre-Requisites: ANML1030
• CoRequisites:
• Estimated required text and/or learning resource costs: Not available at this time.

Description: This course introduces principles involved with x-rays and production of x-rays. Topics include the formation and properties of x-rays, the principles of radiographic image formation, image processing, radiation safety and applied radiography will be studied.

• Hours: 42
• Credits: 3
• Pre-Requisites:
• CoRequisites:
• Estimated required text and/or learning resource costs: Not available at this time.

Description:

This onsite field placement provides a consolidated experience in applying skills learned. Students are assigned to an animal facility and must be available to accommodate the requirements of the placement facility for work hours and needs, which may include early morning, late evenings, and weekend work. The course focuses on medical documentation and office management skills, patient and client interactions, animal handling and basic grooming, patient health and nutritional assessments, animal care, monitoring and nursing. Professionalism and work habits are evaluated within an animal care facility.

• Hours: 75
• Credits: 3
• Pre-Requisites: ANML1000
• CoRequisites:
• Estimated required text and/or learning resource costs: Not available at this time.

Description:

This course explains veterinary office operations and data management. Topics include customer service, client care and education, accounting and financial considerations, inventory management, business marketing principles and the legal and ethical aspects of operating a veterinary practice. Students will become proficient with the use of veterinary practice software that includes processes for client and staff scheduling, booking appointments, client file setup, updating medical records, transactions and budget analysis.

• Hours: 42
• Credits: 3
• Pre-Requisites:
• CoRequisites:
• Estimated required text and/or learning resource costs: Not available at this time.

Description:

This course is an introduction to nutrition for small and large animals. Topics will include a brief overview of the anatomy and physiology of the digestive tract of various species, digestion, a discussion on nutrients, their sources as well as their role in supporting health and the nutritional needs of different life stages. This course will help students acquire an understanding of the Canadian small animal pet food industry, the various trends and the regulatory bodies. Students will be introduced to the importance of a thorough nutritional assessment, learn how to interpret pet food labels, be taught how to calculate energy requirements, find key diet information in product guides and/or online, and how to counsel clients on selecting appropriate life-stage nutrition for their companion animal, how much and how to feed to promote optimal physical and emotional health. Various forages and feeding methods used in large animals will also be discussed.

• Hours: 28
• Credits: 2
• Pre-Requisites:
• CoRequisites:
• Estimated required text and/or learning resource costs: Not available at this time.

Description: This course focuses on developing awareness and skills for the student to safely manage and conduct him or herself within a variety of employment settings. Through the units of the course, participants will have the opportunity to enhance their understanding and knowledge of general Health and Safety guidelines, including WHMIS, Fire Safety and Workplace Violence. The unit on Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act will instruct the student on the requirements for Accessible Customer Service and Integrated Accessibility Standard Regulations. General information on Safe Driving, Privacy of Information and Hand Washing will be addressed as well. The course also provides participants with critical information regarding their insurance coverage (WSIB or other) while employed. As well as guidelines to follow in the event of an injury. Participants will receive a printable Record of Completion upon successful conclusion of this course, in order to demonstrate awareness of safe working practices to their employers.

• Hours: 14
• Credits: 1
• Pre-Requisites:
• CoRequisites:
• Estimated required text and/or learning resource costs: No cost.

Description: This course introduces classifications and general characteristics of drugs used in veterinary patient care. Topics include safe drug dosages and dispensing, IV fluid therapy, constant rate infusions, solutions and dilutions, pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of drugs, common drugs used and a brief overview of statistics. Mode of action, side effects and client education are emphasized. Students also learn about Pharmacy management and important legislative regulations and legal responsibilities that relate to the dispensing of pharmaceuticals in the veterinary environment.

• Hours: 42
• Credits: 3
• Pre-Requisites: MATH1345
• CoRequisites:
• Estimated required text and/or learning resource costs: Not available at this time.