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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.