Normal animal behaviour and specific behaviour problems of different species and breeds will be covered. Students will learn about human-animal bonding and basic physiological requirements of animals. The ability to handle and restrain small and large animals is taught with emphasis on safety for patient and handler. Current Behaviour and Restraint modification guidelines and procedures will be discussed.

Students will develop proper anatomical and physiological terminology. Instruction of cellular biology and physiology will progress into an understanding of organization of cell into tissues, organs and body systems. A working knowledge of body systems will include basic components and functions, gross anatomical features, common abnormalities, interactions with other systems, surgical and diagnostic imaging considerations and location and/or palpation in live animals or cadavers. The student will learn the names, location and function of important anatomical structures in common domestic animal species with an emphasis on the application of practical anatomical knowledge required for mastery of subsequent courses in medical and surgical nursing, x-ray technology, etc.

Students will become familiar with the characteristics and purposes of various breeds of small and large animals and some of the non-traditional farm animals. Animal production systems and methods of individual identification for both large and small animals will be discussed.

Students will develop communication and office skills to prepare them to work in the veterinary industry. Students will learn how to communicate effectively in both written and oral form. They will develop skills in office duties--basic financial transactions, filing, computer skills and inventory control. Students will develop a solid foundation of utilizing medical records to promote continuity of quality animal care.

Proper use of medical nouns, verbs and adjectives, includes background in root words and development of prefix, suffix and plural variations. Students will learn to provide definitions of medical terms and use correct abbreviations and symbols.

Mathematical concepts that are frequently encountered by the Animal Health Technician will be covered and a working knowledge of common measurement systems and conversions is developed. Accurate calculations using correct notation and units are required.

Students will develop proficiency in care and use of lab equipment, performing dilutions, conversions and quality control. Features of bacteria, fungi and viruses are discussed and basic microbiological agents are covered. Students will learn to group bacteria and fungi according to staining results, morphology and characteristics. Practical microbiological procedures will be performed or discussed to help differentiate common microbiological pathogens. Important veterinary infectious diseases and their clinical signs, treatment and human health implications are discussed. Case studies will be used in presentation of course material.

Students will develop proper anatomical and physiological terminology. Instruction of cellular biology and physiology will progress into an understanding of organization of cells into tissues, organs and body systems. A working knowledge of body systems will include basic components and functions. The inflammatory process and tissue response to disease or injury will be covered briefly. Students will receive hands-on instruction in necropsy procedures for small and large animal species. Proper collection, handling and submission of samples and transportation of dangerous goods is discussed or demonstrated.

Skills in personal management, professionalism, and communications with clients, coworkers and employers will be taught. Students will learn to provide client education and grief counselling. The student is required to discuss relevant legislation and provisions with respect to ethics and jurisprudence. Discussion on codes of practice, animal rights are included.

Students will learn basic husbandry, common nursing care procedures and diseases of rabbits, rodents, birds, reptiles and other exotic animals. Human health implications of handling and working with these animals will be discussed. Students will gain knowledge of regulations and protocols involved in working with laboratory and exotic animals. Discussion of Canadian Council and Animal Care Regulations is included.

Instruction on basic nutritional requirements, nutrients, additives and preservatives is given. Variations in nutritional considerations for different physiological conditions and for small and large animals are discussed. Normal rations and indications for prescription or specialty diets will be identified. The student will learn to make recommendations to clients and educate them as to their animal's particular needs.

Life cycles of significant nematodes, trematodes, cestodes, arthropods and protozoa are covered. Instruction includes pathogenesis of common veterinary parasites, treatment and control measures and human health implications. The students will learn to prepare samples and identify these parasites and their ova or oocysts using common laboratory techniques.

Proper identification, use, care and maintenance of all equipment is emphasized. Basic grooming procedures, hoof, nail, ear and eye conditions and care are taught. Students will learn about physical therapy, bandaging, splinting, casting, and wound healing. Recognition and treatment of complications of improper techniques are covered.

Review of the courses they have completed. Students will receive special presentations, guest speakers and discussion of cases or rounds on the clinic rotations when possible.

Students are introduced to hematological procedures and will learn to identify normal blood parameters and cells. A review of the CBC in the lab and lecture will improve the student's ability to perform hematological tests. The student will learn to evaluate the erythron, leukon and hemostatis by recognizing and interpreting abnormal results and identifying possible causes of those results. Hemopoietic neoplasia is discussed. Case studies will be used extensively in presentation of course material.

Instruction on the commonly used anesthetic agents will include their modes of action, human health implications and WHMIS considerations. Students will learn to perform a pre-anesthetic work up, calculate and administer pre-anesthetics, induce and maintain general anesthesia using different agents, techniques and systems. Monitoring of patients includes recognition of anesthetic stages and proper use of monitoring devices. Appropriate responses to anesthetic complications and emergencies will be covered. Appropriate analgesics and analgesic protocols will be discussed.

Students will develop knowledge and skills covered in previous lab courses, as well as learning to collect, prepare and evaluate samples for clinical chemistry and cytology.

Students will learn the principles of radiography, fluoroscopy, ultrasonography and endoscopy. Identification, use, care and maintenance of equipment and supplies is covered with emphasis on safety. Students will learn to position patients, operate equipment and develop images that produce diagnostic quality results.

A review of the purpose, functions and normal variations of the immune system is covered. Disorders of the immune system will be classified into broad categories and includes discussion of clinical signs, diagnostic procedures and treatment principles of some common immunological conditions. Students will learn the concepts and application of basic immunological tests and vaccination procedures. Principles of blood grouping and transfusions are covered.

Review of skills learned throughout the program by performing the tasks and responsibilities of an Animal Health Technician in a clinic and pharmacy setting. The student will perform reception duties, book, admit and discharge patients, perform laboratory tests, administer medications, monitor patients and discuss cases on rounds, maintain records, files and inventories and many other duties required of an Animal Health Technician in a private practice. The student is expected to demonstrate teamwork and cooperation at all times.