XII. Course Descriptions

Veterinary Technology

DVT*1000 Livestock Production and Management F (4-0) [0.50]
This course introduces the students to food animals and horses, with an emphasis on terminology, nutrition, behaviour and housing. The food animal portion also includes common breeds, marketing, and breeding practices of various species, including sheep, poultry, dairy cattle, beef cattle and swine. The students may visit the swine, beef, and dairy herds on campus to observe the behaviour and management of various species. The equine portion of the course emphasizes the techniques, terminology and common diseases that the veterinary technician working in an equine practice would be exposed to, through the use of lectures, slides, videos and handouts. The colony horses provide hands-on experience in behaviour, handling, and restraint, as well as stable management.
Location(s): Ridgetown
DVT*1010 Anatomy and Physiology I S,F (2-2) [0.50]
This course encompasses the gross anatomy and physiology of domestic animals with special emphasis on the cat as a pet animal species. The course covers all major body systems, with emphasis on those of veterinary clinical significance.
Location(s): Ridgetown
DVT*1040 Medical Exercises I S,F (1-3) [0.50]
This is a practical introductory course with an emphasis on working with dogs, cats, laboratory animals, birds, horses, cattle, sheep and pigs. Animal care and bathing are assigned to students on a rotating basis. Basic restraint, examination, medication and bandaging are discussed and practised. Injection and venipuncture techniques are introduced.
Location(s): Ridgetown
DVT*1070 Laboratory Techniques S,F (4-4) [0.50]
This first semester course consists of modules in microbiology and haematology. The microbiology module is an introduction to theoretical and practical aspects of microbiology. Topics include the study of microorganisms with emphasis on their morphology, physiology, biochemistry, culture and identification. The operation of the light microscope and laboratory safety are discussed. The haematology portion will introduce the veterinary technology student to the basic theoretical and practical aspects of canine and feline blood. Practical sampling techniques, handling and processing of samples, and cell identification will be covered. The performance, assessment and evaluation of common veterinary clinical procedures will be emphasized. Haematology mathematical calculations will also be covered.
Restriction(s): DVT*1020,
Location(s): Ridgetown
DVT*1080 Laboratory Quality Assurance S,F (3-2) [0.50]
This course introduces students to quality control and the mathematical calculations required in a laboratory environment. The quality control module is an introduction to basic clinical chemistry principles, common laboratory equipment safety, quality controls, mathematical calculations, and proper analytical techniques. The mathematical module introduces the veterinary technology student to the basic mathematical concepts and skills necessary to efficiently function in a clinical laboratory environment. Basic mathematical manipulations and calculations performed without the use of calculators are encouraged. Various mathematical calculations required to perform laboratory measurements are discussed and practiced.
Location(s): Ridgetown
DVT*1090 Pharmacology & Medical Terminology F (3-0) [0.50]
This course comprises a study of pharmacological terminology; basic mechanisms of absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion and actions of drugs; legal aspects of pharmacology; and a discussion of drug classes commonly used in veterinary medicine. This course is also comprised of medical terminology and its common use in veterinary medicine. (Also offered through Distance Education)
Restriction(s): Registration in the Associate Diploma in Veterinary Technology program
Location(s): Ridgetown
DVT*1100 Large Animal Production and Management I F (0-0) [0.25]
This course introduces the students to sheep, poultry and horses, with an emphasis on terminology, nutrition, behaviour and housing. This course also includes common breeds, marketing, and breeding practices of various species. The equine portion of the course emphasizes the techniques, terminology and common diseases that the veterinary technician working in an equine practice would be exposed to. (Offered through distance education format only)
Restriction(s): Registration in the Associate Diploma in Veterinary Technology program
Location(s): Ridgetown
DVT*1200 Intro to Animal Microbiology W (0-0) [0.25]
This course is designed to introduce the Veterinary Technology student to the theoretical and practical aspects of microbiology. Topics include the study of microorganisms with emphasis on their morphology, physiology, biochemistry, culture and identification. Their importance in the Veterinary practice are introduced. Disinfection and sterilization methods are studied as they relate to the handling of micro-organisms, and health related topics associated with them. (Offered through distance education format only)
Prerequisite(s): DVT*1030, DVT*1100
Restriction(s): Registration in the Associate Diploma in Veterinary Technology program
Location(s): Ridgetown
DVT*1210 Introduction to Urinalysis Theory W (0-0) [0.25]
This course is designed to introduce students to the theoretical basis involved in modern urinalysis. Exploring the collection of, physical characteristics of, diagnostic testing and relevant sediment evaluation of urine will be covered. The prevention and dietary management of urolithiasis is also investigated. (Offered through distance education format only)
Prerequisite(s): DVT*1030, DVT*1100
Restriction(s): Registration in the Associate Diploma in Veterinary Technology program
Location(s): Ridgetown
DVT*1220 Canine and Feline Nutrition & Care W (0-0) [0.25]
This course offers the Veterinary Technology student the information required to understand small animal husbandry. Through lectures, practical information is gained into the companion animal's nutritional needs and preventative health care. The emphasis in this course is the prevention of health problems in companion animals. (Offered through distance education format only)
Prerequisite(s): DVT*1030, DVT*1100
Restriction(s): Registration in the Associate Diploma in Veterinary Technology program
Location(s): Ridgetown
DVT*1300 Large Animal Production and Management II S (3-0) [0.25]
This course introduces the students to food animals such as beef, dairy and swine with an emphasis on terminology, nutrition, behaviour and housing. The food animal portion also includes common breeds, marketing, and breeding practices of various species. The students may visit the swine, beef, and dairy herds on campus. By doing so the students will be able to observe the behaviour and management of various species. (Not offered through distance education format.)
Prerequisite(s): DVT*1200, DVT*1210, DVT*1220
Restriction(s): Registration in the Associate Diploma in Veterinary Technology program
Location(s): Ridgetown
DVT*1310 Laboratory Procedures S (3-2) [0.25]
This course consists of modules in microbiology and hematology. The microbiology module is an introduction to theoretical and practical aspects of microbiology. Topics include the study of microorganisms with emphasis on their morphology, physiology, biochemistry, culture and identification. The operation of the light microscope and laboratory safety are discussed. The hematology portion will introduce the veterinary technology student to the basic theoretical and practical aspects of canine and feline blood. Practical sampling techniques, handling and processing of samples, and cell identification will be covered. The performance, assessment and evaluation of common veterinary clinical procedures will be emphasized. Hematology mathematical calculations will also be covered. (Offered through distance education format only)
Prerequisite(s): DVT*1200, DVT*1210, DVT*1220
Restriction(s): Registration in the Associate Diploma in Veterinary Technology program
Location(s): Ridgetown
DVT*1320 Practical Applications to Urinalysis S (1-4) [0.25]
This course is designed to continue the theoretical knowledge learned and utilize this to practical techniques involved in modern veterinary urinalysis. Exploring the collection of, physical characteristics of, diagnostic testing and microscopic identification of urine sediment. (Offered through distance education format only)
Prerequisite(s): DVT*1200, DVT*1210, DVT*1220
Restriction(s): Registration in the Associate Diploma in Veterinary Technology program
Location(s): Ridgetown
DVT*1330 Companion Animal Behaviour S (2-0) [0.25]
The animal behaviour course focuses on the normal behaviour of small animals. The course outlines in detail the developmental stages of behaviour as well as why and how animals learn. Animal genetics, innate responses and how the environment can alter their behaviour will be discussed. Communication, social behaviour, reproductive behaviour and the learning process is covered in each species. Problems with social behaviour which includes aggression in dogs and cats is also discussed. Fears, phobias, anxiety, stereotypes and obsessive compulsive disorders are evaluated on cause, prevention and solutions of these common problems.
Prerequisite(s): DVT*1200, DVT*1210, DVT*1220
Restriction(s): Registration in the Associate Diploma in Veterinary Technology program
Location(s): Ridgetown
DVT*2000 Companion Animal Management W (5-0) [0.50]
This course offers the veterinary technician student the information required to understand small animal husbandry. Through lectures, practical information is gained into the companion animal's nutritional needs, behaviour patterns and preventative health care. They learn what is normal and abnormal behaviour and how to advise clients on applying proper training techniques. The emphasis in this course is the prevention of health problems in companion animals.
Location(s): Ridgetown
DVT*2010 Anatomy and Physiology II W (4-2) [0.50]
A continuation of DVT*1010, the course covers the structure and functions of select major body systems with emphasis on the lymphatic system and its importance in preventing and/or overcoming disease. Disease transmission, development and serological diagnosis will be discussed.
Prerequisite(s): DVT*1010
Location(s): Ridgetown
DVT*2020 Haematology/Cytology S,W (2-4) [0.50]
This course expands upon the information introduced in DVT*1070. The veterinary technology student will study basic theoretical and practical aspects of feline, equine and bovine blood. Blood cell precursors will be studied and corrected counts will be included. Alterations of RBCs and WBCs will be covered. The performance, assessment and evaluation of common veterinary clinical procedures are emphasized. Haematological mathematical calculations will also be covered, as well as a section on cytology
Prerequisite(s): (DVT*1070 or DVT*2200), DVT*2210
Location(s): Ridgetown
DVT*2040 Medical Exercises II S,W (2-3) [0.50]
This is a practical introduction to venipuncture, IV catherization, anaesthesia and aseptic surgical techniques, restraint in laboratory animals and birds and the performance of fluid therapy and drug dose calculations.
Prerequisite(s): DVT*1040
Location(s): Ridgetown
DVT*2050 Urinalysis W (1-2) [0.50]
This is a theoretical and practical course which emphasizes the macroscopic, chemical and microscopic characteristics of urine, along with the concepts of urinary diagnostic testing. The prevention and dietary treatment of urolithiasis is explored.
Location(s): Ridgetown
DVT*2060 Communications & Vet Software W (2-2) [0.50]
Issues dealing with communication between the veterinary technician and clients, co-workers and the employer/ veterinarian are explored using communication theory and skills. Application of theories are demonstrated through discussions and class exercises. Hands-on labs introduce the use of computers in the veterinary clinic using current veterinary clinic software programs.
Location(s): Ridgetown
DVT*2100 Veterinary Nursing Techniques I F (0-0) [0.25]
This course is concerned with practical animal nursing relative to the basic needs of the animal. Students learn about general patient management, including the importance of history taking, medical records, the physical exam, patient handling, hospital safety, and fluid therapy. Students learn how to care for healthy large and small animals, maintain a hospital area, and nurse sick and injured animals. (Offered through distance education format only)
Prerequisite(s): 4.50 credits
Restriction(s): Registration in the Associate Diploma in Veterinary Technology program
Location(s): Ridgetown
DVT*2200 Introduction to Immunobiology W (0-0) [0.25]
This course covers the structure and function of the lymphatic system and its importance in preventing and/or overcoming disease. Disease transmission, development, and serological diagnosis will be discussed. (Offered through distance education format only)
Prerequisite(s): DVT*2100
Restriction(s): Registration in the Associate Diploma in Veterinary Technology program
Location(s): Ridgetown
DVT*2210 Introduction to Anesthetic Principles F,W (2-0) [0.25]
This course introduces the practical and theoretical aspects of anesthetic techniques in animals. Emphasis is on the principles of general anesthesia using gas anesthetic machines. Also discussed are sedation, general anesthesia using injectable agents, and local analgesia. Students will utilize this knowledge during the laboratory sessions of Surgical Exercises. (Offered through distance education format only)
Prerequisite(s): 4.50 credits
Restriction(s): Registration in the Associate Diploma in Veterinary Technology program
Location(s): Ridgetown
DVT*2300 Veterinary Anatomy and Physiology S (2-2) [0.25]
A continuation of DVT*1010, the course encompasses the structure and functions of select major body systems of domestic animals, with emphasis on the cat as a pet animal species. This course covers the following major body systems of significance in veterinary clinical medicine: cardiovascular, digestive, respiratory, reproductive, nervous, and special senses. (Not offered through distance education format.)
Prerequisite(s): DVT*2200, DVT*2210
Restriction(s): Registration in the Associate Diploma in Veterinary Technology program
Location(s): Ridgetown
DVT*2310 Veterinary Nursing Techniques II S (1-3) [0.25]
This course incorporates kennel and barn duties and general care and feeding of the colony animals including cats, dogs, rodents, birds and horses. It is meant to introduce the students to the running of a veterinary clinic. Students are supervised and evaluated on all aspects of animal care which fall under this broad topic. As well, they collect samples, treat sick and injured animals in the colony on an as required basis. Specific nursing techniques are introduced in a more formal way. (Not offered through distance education format.)
Prerequisite(s): DVT*2200, DVT*2210
Restriction(s): Registration in the Associate Diploma in Veterinary Technology program
Location(s): Ridgetown
DVT*2320 Surgical Exercises S (1-3) [0.25]
This course deals with the practical and theoretical aspects of anaesthetic and surgical techniques in animals. The anesthesia part of the course builds on the knowledge aquired in Introduction to Anesthetic Principles. Each laboratory session is also preceded by a lecture in which the students learn about the rationale behind and possible complications with each surgery, thus enabling them to be involved in client education. During the laboratory sessions, the students work in small groups, rotating within these groups, becoming proficient in anaesthesia, surgical assistance, instrument handling, surgical nursing, and post-operative care. (Not offered through distance education format.)
Prerequisite(s): DVT*2200, DVT*2210
Restriction(s): Registration in the Associate Diploma in Veterinary Technology program
Location(s): Ridgetown
DVT*2330 Clinical Chemistry S (2-3) [0.25]
This course emphasizes and familiarizes students with practical laboratory techniques utilized routinely in veterinary practice. The course will cover topics ranging from proper sample collecting to organ function. We will include chemistry, haemotology and cytology in the discussion and during laboratory sessions. (Not offered through distance education format.)
Prerequisite(s): DVT*1200, DVT*1210, DVT*1220
Restriction(s): Registration in the Associate Diploma in Veterinary Technology program
Location(s): Ridgetown
DVT*3000 Laboratory Animal Science S,F (3-0) [0.50]
This course familiarizes the students with scientific research involving animals, as well as issues in veterinary ethics. Topics include the role of the veterinary technician in research, regulations governing the use of animals in research, basic steps required to conduct a research project, how various animal species are used in research, assessment of animal health and welfare during a research procedure, and the care and common diseases of research animals. Through the preparation and presentation of seminars, students are encouraged to examine various aspects of veterinary ethics.
Location(s): Ridgetown
DVT*3010 Animal Nursing I F (2-3) [0.50]
This course is concerned with practical animal nursing relative to the basic needs of the animal. Students learn about general patient management, including the importance of history taking, medical records, the physical exam, patient handling, fluid therapy and hospital care/safety. Common diseases and conditions are also discussed. Students are required to care for healthy large and small animals, and maintain a hospital area. Students may also visit small, large, equine and referral practices to observe and participate in the practical aspects of veterinary technology.
Location(s): Ridgetown
DVT*3020 Diagnostic Techniques I F (4-4) [0.50]
This course emphasizes practical laboratory techniques utilized routinely in veterinary practice. The course consists of modules in clinical chemistry and parasitology covering parasitology, haematology, cytology and chemistry. The parasitology portion of the course familiarizes the student with the host-parasite relationship for the common parasites of veterinary significance in Canada. Topics of discussion for the various parasites will include: campus location in the host, methods of infection, development and behaviour, clinical signs of disease, diagnoses and potential human health hazards. Various laboratory tests used in the diagnosis of animal parasites are studied/performed in the laboratory periods.
Location(s): Ridgetown
DVT*3030 Radiography I S,F (3-3) [0.50]
This is a lecture and laboratory course dealing with practical and theoretical aspects of radiography in animals. The lecture portion of this course outlines radiation safety, positioning, radiographic equipment, production of radiation, intensifying screens, films, grids, processing, contrast medias, preparing technique charts and trouble shooting. Each laboratory session is preceded by a prelab lecture which will introduce the laboratory topic and walk through case scenarios to cover any problems that may be incurred. During the laboratory sessions, the students work in small groups learning proper positioning, processing both manually and automatically, two contrast studies and various special imaging techniques.
Location(s): Ridgetown
DVT*3040 Pharmacology F (3-0) [0.50]
This course comprises a study of pharmacological terminology; basic mechanisms of absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion and actions of drugs; legal aspects of pharmacology; and a discussion of drug classes commonly used in veterinary medicine. Drug dose calculation skills learned in DVT*2040, are also reviewed.
Location(s): Ridgetown
DVT*3050 Surgical and Anaesthetic Principles I F (3-3) [0.50]
This course deals with the practical and theoretical aspects of anaesthetic and surgical techniques in animals. The lecture portion of the course introduces the students to various anaesthetic agents and techniques, as well as the principles of asepsis, the importance of monitoring and the correct response to anaesthetic emergencies. Each laboratory session is also preceded by a lecture in which the students learn about the rationale behind and possible complications with each surgery, thus enabling them to be involved in client education. During the laboratory sessions, the students work in small groups, rotating within these groups, becoming proficient in anaesthesia, surgical assistance, instrumental handling, surgical nursing and post-operative care.
Location(s): Ridgetown
DVT*3060 Genetics F (3-0) [0.50]
This course provides a basic understanding of the principles of protein synthesis, DNA replication, heritability, selective breeding, and recombinant DNA, vaccine production, and new techniques in genetic engineering, as well discussions surrounding ethical issues concerning recent genetic research.
Prerequisite(s): 6.00 credits
Restriction(s): DVT*1030, Registration in the Associate Diploma in Veterinary Technology program
Location(s): Ridgetown
DVT*3200 Public Health W (0-0) [0.25]
This course is designed to introduce the veterinary technology student to the interrelation of animal and human health. Meat inspection programs are discussed with emphasis on humane slaughter, environmental sanitation,ante mortem and post mortem examination, condemned meats, animal by-products and meat labeling. As well, epidemiology, zoonoses, water sanitation, microbiology of food and meat hygiene are addressed. Simple statistics that measure health and disease are also considered. (Offered through distance education format only)
Prerequisite(s): DVT*3040
Restriction(s): Registration in the Associate Diploma in Veterinary Technology program
Location(s): Ridgetown
DVT*3210 Veterinary Nursing Techniques III W (0-0) [0.25]
This course is concerned with practical animal nursing relative to the basic needs of the animal. Students learn about general patient management, including the importance of history taking, medical records, the physical exam, patient handling, hospital safety, and fluid therapy. Students learn how to care for healthy large and small animals, maintain a hospital area, and nurse sick and injured animals. (Offered through distance education format only)
Prerequisite(s): DVT*3040
Restriction(s): Registration in the Associate Diploma in Veterinary Technology program
Location(s): Ridgetown
DVT*3300 Veterinary Nursing Techniques IV S (1-3) [0.25]
This course incorporates kennel and barn duties and general care and feeding of the colony animals including cats, dogs, rodents, birds and horses. It will expand upon the running of a veterinary clinic as introduced in DVT*2310. Additional animal nursing techniques are introduced in a more formal way. (Not offered through distance education format.)
Prerequisite(s): DVT*3200, DVT*3210
Restriction(s): Registration in the Associate Diploma in Veterinary Technology program
Location(s): Ridgetown
DVT*3320 Veterinary Parasitology S (2-2) [0.25]
This course emphasizes and familiarizes students with practical laboratory techniques utilized routinely in veterinary practice in respect to common internal and external parasites found on small animals and food producing animals of veterinary significance in Canada. Topics of discussion for the various parasites will include: location in the host, methods of infection, development and behaviour, clinical signs of disease, prevention, diagnoses and potential human health hazards. Various laboratory tests used on various species specimens in the diagnosis of animal parasites are studied/performed in laboratory periods. (Not offered through distance education format.)
Prerequisite(s): DVT*3200, DVT*3210
Restriction(s): Registration in the Associate Diploma in Veterinary Technology program
Location(s): Ridgetown
DVT*3330 Veterinary Clinic Management S (2-3) [0.25]
This course is designed to familiarize students with the basic skills and procedures used in the management of veterinary hospitals, with emphasis on small animal facilities. The lecture portion of the course delves into the role of the practice manager regarding: hospital safety; personnel & client management; basic bookkeeping and marketing strategies. The laboratory portion is intended to provide the student with practical experience in inventory control, purchasing and receiving of drugs, supplies and equipment pertinent to the sound financial operation of a modern veterinary practice. (Not offered through distance education format.)
Prerequisite(s): DVT*3200, DVT*3210
Restriction(s): Registration in the Associate Diploma in Veterinary Technology program
Location(s): Ridgetown
DVT*4000 Dentistry S,W (1-3) [0.50]
This course introduces the fundamentals of small animal oral health, including the anatomy and physiology of the tooth and surrounding structures, and the disease processes which can occur. The emphasis is on the prevention of oral disease. Through the use of models and live patients, the student is introduced to the proper techniques involved in performing a complete dental prophylaxis and is given the information needed to enable them to counsel clients on appropriate preventative home care.
Location(s): Ridgetown
DVT*4010 Animal Nursing II W (2-3) [0.50]
A continuation of DVT*3010, concerned with practical animal nursing relative to basic needs of the animal. Students learn about general patient management, including the importance of history-making, medical records, the physical exam, patient handling, fluid therapy and hospital care. Common diseases and conditions are also discussed. Students are required to care for healthy large and small animals and maintain a hospital area. Students may visit small, large, equine and referral practices to observe and participate in the practical aspects of veterinary technology.
Prerequisite(s): DVT*3010
Location(s): Ridgetown
DVT*4020 Diagnostic Techniques II S,W (1-3) [0.50]
This course emphasizes practical laboratory techniques routinely in veterinary practice. The material acquired in the introductory courses in laboratory techniques is expanded upon, particularly in the areas of bacteriology, haematology, cytology and mycology. Both large and small animal samples are utilized in order to prepare students to work in small, large or mixed animal practices.
Prerequisite(s): DVT*3020 or DVT*3200, DVT*3210
Location(s): Ridgetown
DVT*4030 Radiography II S,W (1-3) [0.50]
This course is a lecture and laboratory course dealing with practical application of all aspects of radiography in animals (a continuation of DVT*3030). Emphasis of this course is on proper positioning, using mechanical restraint, in order to obtain a quality radiograph. Subject material covered in the lecture course is applied here. In addition to routine radiography, topics include: trouble shooting, use of contrast media, safelight testing, dental radiography methods, maintenance of processing equipment and development of a radiographic technique chart.
Prerequisite(s): DVT*3030
Location(s): Ridgetown
DVT*4040 Hospital Management W (3-1) [0.50]
This course is designed to familiarize students with the basic skills and procedures used in the management of animal hospitals, with emphasis on small animal facilities. Topics included within this course are personnel management, client relations, marketing strategies, inventory control, public health issues, and financial management.
Location(s): Ridgetown
DVT*4050 Surgical and Anaesthetic Principles II S,W (1-3) [0.50]
This lecture and laboratory course builds on the skills and knowledge acquired during DVT*3050 or DVT*2210 and DVT*2320. The lecture portion gives background information on the anatomy, patient complications for each surgery, as well as the requirements for client education. Supplementary surgical lectures provide information about other small and large animal surgeries commonly performed in clinical practice.
Prerequisite(s): (DVT*3050 or DVT*2210), DVT*2320
Location(s): Ridgetown
DVT*4060 Externship S,W [0.00]
The Externship is a four week, 160 hour training and evaluation period in which senior students in their last semester enter veterinary practices away from the Ridgetown Campus. The location must be one in which they have not worked or volunteered previously. Students are required to perform many of the duties that are commonly performed by graduate technicians, and are assessed by veterinarians or graduate technicians in the work setting. Students are required to keep a journal, as well as a check list of the skills they are performing. At the completion of their externship, they will complete a report on their practice location. They will also be assessed by the practice. If the externship is not completed satisfactorily, it will have to be successfully repeated before the student can graduate. A pass/fail grade will be assigned upon completion of the course.
Prerequisite(s): Registration in DVT with 9.0 credits or DVTA program with 8.75 credits
Location(s): Ridgetown
University of Guelph
50 Stone Road East
Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1
Canada
519-824-4120