Agricultural Sciences
Veterinary Medical Assistant Courses
Location
Vermilion
Credential
Certificate
Program Length
1 year
Required courses
| CO 180 Veterinary Office Management - 3 credits |
| This course introduces core communication skills that are essential to working in the veterinary field. Both verbal and written communication skills are addressed. Veterinary terminology is also covered and is reinforced in all other courses in the Veterinary Medical Assistant program. Pre/co-requisites: None |
| CO 280 Business & Veterinary Communications II - 3 credits |
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This course focuses on critical soft skills, such as professionalism, ethics, managing difficult situations, client education and marketing techniques as well as practicum preparation. A portion of the course is a continuation of the usage of veterinary programs. Prerequisites: CO 180 & CU 195. Co-requisites: None |
| CU 195 Introduction to Veterinary Software - 3 credits |
| This course reviews Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Microsoft Windows file management as well as use One Drive. The main focus of the course is on the use of the AVImark veterinary software program. Pre/co-requisites: None |
| VE 121 Introduction to Radiography & Surgery - 3 credits |
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Surgery is a common component in a veterinary practice. Students learn the necessary skills required to be competent in preparing for these surgeries. In addition, safe and accurate radiographic techniques for animals using digital technology are studied. Pre/co-requisites: None |
| VE 127 VMA Clinics Practice I - 3 credits |
| This lecture/lab course covers breeds, colors, normal behavior patterns and restraint techniques of small animals, pocket pets, and exotics. Students learn how to maintain a wide variety of medical records in a veterinary setting and perform kennel care duties on cats and dogs. All of the skills learned in the lecture are practiced throughout the labs. Pre/co-requisites: None |
| VE 129 Applied Nutrition - 3 credits |
| Students learn the principles and practices of nutrition as they apply to both large and small animals. Each nutrient class is studied in relation to its function, deficiency and requirement in the body. Nutrient requirements for maintenance, growth, and production are emphasized. Nutritional requirements of the sick animal are also discussed, with discussion of prescription diets and their purpose. Pre/co-requisites: None |
VE 131 Anatomy and Laboratory Safety - 3 credits |
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Students are introduced to common clinical laboratory techniques, including the correct method of collection and the handling of specimens. An introduction to skeletal anatomy and physiology of the digestive, circulatory, respiratory, renal and reproductive systems is covered. Laboratory safety and biosecurity protocols are practiced throughout this course. Pre/co-requisites: none |
| VE 138 Animal Diseases & Treatments - 3 credits |
| This course provides a working knowledge of the common diseases in dogs, cats, cattle, sheep, and horses for the Veterinary Medical Assistant student. The emphasis is on how disease is transmitted, clinical signs seen, disease prevention and vaccination protocols. Pre/co-requisites: None |
| VE 139 Veterinary Nursing Care - 3 credits |
| This lab/lecture course instructs students in the basic understanding of pharmaceutical drugs, their purpose, route of administration and regulations surrounding their sale. A wide variety of nursing care techniques for large and small animals, neonates, and geriatrics are discussed. Emergency situations and the essentials within a crash cart are covered. The roles of the veterinary team in wildlife management are introduced. Large animal hands-on experience is obtained as students do various shifts on the college farm units. Pre/co-requisites: None |
| VE 160 Animal Production & Genetics - 3 credits |
| This course provides an overview of the livestock industry in Canada which primarily consists of horse, dairy, beef, and sheep with a quick introduction to swine and poultry industries. We will look into the various production systems, genetic components and current issues in different livestock commodities. Pre/co-requisites: None |
| VE 177 VMA Practicum - 3 credits |
| Students are placed in approved veterinary clinics or alternatives (such as a humane society) for a four week period at the end of the formal instruction at Lakeland College. During the practicum, students gain experience with exposure to the workings within the veterinary profession and have the opportunity to become part of the working team. This experience enhances their skills and helps prepare them for the work force. Pre/co-requisites: None |