This course studies mankind through primate and cultural evolution, symbolic systems, cultural theory and culture change.

The field trip may include attendance at an animal care related conference and/or tour of veterinary clinics and related facilities. Students will be required to cover field trip personal expenses such as meals.

Review of skills learned throughout the program by performing the tasks and responsibilities of an Animal Health Technologist 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 Technologist in a private practice. The student is expected to demonstrate teamwork and cooperation at all times.

Students will be placed, individually, in an on-the-job training position with a private veterinary practice for six weeks. The student will be evaluated by the employer according to criteria determined by the Animal Health Technology Program.

This course will cover preparation for the Veterinary Technicians National Exam (VTNE). Students will receive special presentations, guest speakers and discussion of cases or rounds on the clinic rotations when possible.

Basic pharmacological principles are taught and students learn to recognize different groups of drugs and their basic actions. In the pharmacy, the student will become familiar with common veterinary drugs and their indications, administration and side effects or toxic actions. Legal implications of dispensing drugs and risks associated with off label or improper use are discussed. Students learn to prepare and dispense veterinary preparations and educate clients about their use.

Principles of cell division and inheritance are discussed. A review of anatomical and hormonal components of male and female reproduction systems prepares students to learn about breeding behaviours and common diseases or conditions of the reproductive system in various animals. Techniques used to assess or manipulate reproduction in veterinary medicine will be discussed and/or demonstrated. Instruction on gestation and parturition will be the main focus.

Students will be able to discuss disease based on classification as metabolic, nutritional, inherited, toxic, endocrine or other. Common diseases of domestic animals will be discussed with respect to etiology, specific hosts, diagnostic techniques, treatment and prevention and human health implications.

Students are expected to use proper dental terminology and identify normal tooth anatomy, function, eruption and dental formula. Students learn to instruct clients on dental home care procedures. Common dental problems and diseases are covered with emphasis on small animal and equine patients. Proper use, care and maintenance of dental equipment is covered. Principles of dental radiography are discussed. Proficiency in basic dental prophylaxis will be developed using live animals and cadavers.

Proper identification, use, care and maintenance of all equipment is continued. Administration of medications by different routes is taught. The student will learn techniques for venipuncture, catheterizations and urine and vaginal sample collection. Fluid therapy is covered in depth, instruction includes general nursing care of hospitalized patients, orphans, newborns, post-parturient dams, and principles of pain management. The student will be instructed on basic procedures such as vaginal exams, care of tracheotomy, pharyngostomy and chest tube sites, preparation of wounds and abscesses for treatment. The student will be able to discuss and/or perform all procedures covered and identify any common complications. Students will learn veterinary first aid procedures and emergency protocols. Humane euthanasia and maintenance of legal record and log books is covered. Identification, use, care and maintenance of surgical instruments, equipment and supplies is covered in detail. Students learn to prepare facilities, patients and equipment for surgical procedures with strict adherence to principles of sanitation and sterilization. Students will participate in surgical procedures as a surgical assistant and will learn to pass instruments, care for exposed tissue and provide suction or cautery. Students become responsible for post-operative cleanup of the patient, equipment and facilities and follow up with patient monitoring and surgical records.