Course topics will include basic small animal and laboratory animal anatomy, animal safety, handling/controlling small animals and laboratory animals, parasite recognition, zoonotic disease awareness and basic animal diseases. Regulations and requirements will also be discussed for laboratory animal facilities and veterinary facilities. Simple business operations will also be discussed including proper veterinary/client/veterinary patient relationship and veterinarian/veterinarian assistant relationship. No hands-on experience with live animals is included in this course.
Occupation Description
Feed, water, and examine pets and other nonfarm animals for signs of illness, disease, or injury in laboratories and animal hospitals and clinics. Clean and disinfect cages and work areas, and sterilize laboratory and surgical equipment. May provide routine post-operative care, administer medication orally or topically, or prepare samples for laboratory examination under the supervision of veterinary or laboratory animal technologists or technicians, veterinarians, or scientists.
Careers Available
Veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers, kennel attendant, office assistant.
Entry-Level Salary
North Carolina - $8.00 - $12.00 per hour
Learning Objectives
At the conclusion of this course, students should be able to:
- Obtain entry-level qualifications for a position at an animal hospital, laboratory animal facility, boarding kennel, pet shop, or grooming facility.
- Determine and provide animal care needs.
- Discuss business and legal requirements for animal care facilities.
- Handle animals safely.
Recommended Courses and Skills
Strong math, organization, and communication skills; basic computer knowledge.
Helpful Personal Attributes
Active listening, monitoring, speaking, critical thinking, reading comprehension, service orientation and social perceptiveness.
Program Contact
Bill
Adams
Director,
Occupational Education
Forsyth
Technical Community College
2100
Silas Creek Parkway
Winston-Salem,
NC 27103-5197
(336)
734-7762
