VETS - Veterinary Technology Science

The course introduces the student to the terminology and specialization of the Veterinary Technology program. The nature of profession and ethical practices will be explored. Breeds and strains of domesticated and companion animals will be studied and the student will be introduced to the basic concepts of animal behavior. The nature and form of medicines and the calculation of dose and dosages will be studied. small animal handling laboratory will be held on site at a local SPCA. Students will also be instructed in the basic handling and restraint of companion animals. Animals used will be on loan from the local SPCA and Humane Society.

This course is an organ systems approach to the study of anatomy and physiology using large animal species as the primary model. The course provides a functional integration of basic science and clinical information as it relates to the normal healthy animal in an integrated lecture and laboratory approach. Prosected large animal specimen both fresh and preserved, as well as skeletons and models will be utilized in the laboratory to allow applied reinforcement of concepts presented in the lecture. Histologic slides, kodachromes and radiographs will be utilized to enhance organ recognition through multiple formats and give the student a better understanding of organ function. The students will explore in greater depth and detail the course materials through questions and discussions fostered by the development of group Power Point presentations on topics that are related to the organ systems studied.

Pathophysiology of Animal Disease is a course which provides the student with the understanding of basic science and clinical information as it relates to health and the process of disease in companion animals. It will utilize the body systems approach.

Anatomy and Physiology of small animals is a continuation of the study of anatomy and physiology which began using the organ system in VETS 1214 Large Animal Anatomy and Physiology. This course uses both companion and laboratory animals as the models on which we complete the discussion of the normal anatomy and physiologic function of animals. The course provides a functional integration of basic science and clinical information as it relates to the healthy animal in an integrated lecture and laboratory approach. Histological slides, kodachromes, and radiographs will also be utilized to enhance organ recognition and understanding of organ function. The students will explore in greater depth and detail the course materials through questions and discussions fostered by the development of group Power Point presentations on topics that are related to organ system studied.

This course is designed to give second year students in the Veterinary Technology Program experience performing in a "supervisory" role. They will assist students, in Introduction to Veterinary Technology, with procedures in the small animal handling laboratories. The second year students will also supervise facilities maintenance and animal husbandry as well as perform any required treatments prescribed by the attending Veterinarian. The small animal supervisory duties will be performed in the animal kennel facilities. Students will also learn to perform routine procedures necessary for work in a clinical setting, and become familiar with various common pieces of equipment and their proper use. This course will also provide the second year student with guidance for the development of a professional resume and the development of quality interviewing skills.

This course is designed to give first year students intensive animal handling skills and familiarity with basic procedures such as injections, venipuncture, bandaging, and dosage and fluid therapy calculations.  Dentistry prophylaxis, recognition of dental abnormalities, and charting using both anatomic and Triadan systems will also be covered thoroughly.   Students will also go on regular visits to a local Humane Society to perform technician-related duties.

This course is designed to prepare the second year Veterinary Technology student to become the individual who can induce, maintain and recover small animal surgical patients. The student will also prepare the animals for surgery and assist in the surgical procedures. Upon course completion, the student will possess an understanding of all procedures done in vet practice with anesthesia and surgical nursing.

Radiographic procedures are an indispensable component in the diagnosis and prognosis of numerous animal fractures, injuries and illnesses. This course in radiology instructs the student in the appropriate positioning and setting of exposure factors to produce a diagnostically usable radiograph. It further instructs the student in proper darkroom technique, with both automatic and hand processing learned. Topics covered include the theory of x-ray photon production and film response, components of the x-ray machine and ancillary equipment, use of contrast media, troubleshooting poor films, and newer imaging techniques. Portable x-ray equipment for equine techniques will also be used.

This course is designed to give the student the ability to perform the necessary tests and procedures needed to identify common ecto and endo parasites encountered in clinical practice. The student will also gain an understanding of the life cycles, treatment and management of common parasites.

This course introduces laboratory techniques performed in veterinary offices and clinics. Examination and testing of blood, feces, urine, and exudates are performed for diagnostic and prognostic purposes. Lectures deal with testing theories and relevance to animal health and disease. Laboratories develop skills necessary to maintain a safe laboratory working environment, institute quality control programs, collect, process, store, and transport clinical biological specimens. Major emphasis of the course is development of skills necessary to operate and maintain clinical analyzers, accurately perform laboratory tests, interpret, and report laboratory results on clinical specimens.