Veterinary Assistant

Program Outline

Instruction Sets
Our distance learning program consists of nine Instruction Sets designed to take you step-by-step through the techniques and skills you'll use in your new career.

Here's how it works
Your first Instruction Set will be sent to you as soon as your enrollment has been accepted. Other Instruction Sets will follow as you complete your exams so that you will always have training materials to work with.

Computer Specifications
You will need access to a Microsoft® Windows®-based computer running Windows® XP or later (Mac OS X® or later) and high-speed Internet to complete your program with Penn Foster.

Here is an overview of what you'll learn and the order in which you'll receive your lessons:

Instruction Set 1

Learning Strategies
The advantages of learning at home; types of study materials; types of examinations; accessing and using the features of our website; determining what kind of learner you are; establishing a study schedule; using study tips; preparing for and taking examinations.

Introduction to Animal Care
Career opportunities in animal care; certification; animal care skills.

Instruction Set 2

Behavior
Types of animal behavior; role of the Veterinary Assistant in behavior counseling; common animal behavior problems.

Handling and Restraint
Handling and restraint of dogs, cats, birds, horses, and other animals; transporting animals.

DVD: Handling and Restraint

Instruction Set 3

Introduction to Veterinary Terminology
Anatomical and veterinary procedure terminology; metric terms and abbreviations.

Animal Skeletal and Muscular Systems
Anatomy and physiology overview; skeletal system structure and function; joints; muscular system structure and function; muscle groups and muscle physiology; skeletal muscle functions.

Integumentary, Circulatory, and Respiratory Systems
Integumentary system structures; the cardiovascular system; blood and other bodily fluids; the lymphatic system; respiratory system structure and processes.

Supplement: Your Guide to Medical Terminology (online only)

Instruction Set 4

Digestive, Reproductive, and Urinary Systems
The digestive system; accessory digestive organs; the reproductive systems; the urinary system.

Nervous System, Sensory Organs, and Endocrine System
The nervous system; the sensory organs; endocrine system.

Learning Aid: Anatomy Charts

Instruction Set 5

Nutrition
Nutrients; pet foods; methods of feeding; anorexic animals; dietary management.

Genetics, Reproduction, and Aging
Classification by breeds; reproductive cycles; gestation; aging.

Avian and Reptile Anatomy
Functions of the major body systems; components of avian body systems.

History and Physical Examination
The chart; systems history; observation, palpation, auscultation; client education.

DVD: Physical Examination and Bandage Care

Instruction Set 6

Pathology
Signs of disease; common diseases of animals; prevention; immunity; zoonoses.

Immunology
Vaccination; vaccination schedules; adverse reaction to vaccines.

Emergency Care
Common emergencies; wounds; fractures; exposure; triage; shock; crisis intervention.

Wound Care and Management
Types of wounds; healing; wound care; bandaging techniques; casts and slings.

Instruction Set 7

Clinical Parasitology
Types of parasites; ectoparasites and endoparasites; testing for parasites.

Small and Large Animal Nursing, Parts 1 & 2
Administering oral medications; assisting with the administration of injections; nursing newborns; geriatric care.

Veterinary Pharmacology
Introduction to veterinary pharmacology; techniques of drug administration; types of drugs.

DVD: Small Animal Nursing

Instruction Set 8

Radiology, Parts 1 & 2
Safety; radiography; ultrasonography; caring for equipment.

Instrumentation and Principles of Aseptic Technique
Small and large instruments; surgical packs; cleaning and sterilization; patient preparation.

Surgical and Anesthetic Preparation
The assistant’s role; animal surgery; surgical preparation; assisting with anesthesia administration; post-surgical cleanup.

DVD: Radiology, Anesthetic, and Surgical Preparation

Instruction Set 9

Veterinary Practice and Administration
Veterinary staff roles; procedure and personnel manuals; facility cleanliness and safety; inventory and supplies; records and logs; admission and discharge; records retrieval and protection; basic filing systems and equipment; screening and processing mail.

Interpersonal Communication
Basic elements of communication; essential personality traits; professional interactions with clients; prejudice, insensitivity, and discrimination; barriers to effective communication; improving your speech; stress and defense mechanisms.

General Accounting Practices
Basic accounting terminology; common accounting systems in veterinary offices; doctors’ fees and fee policies; accepting and declining checks; extending credit on accounts receivable; adjusting or cancelling fees; billing statements and collection letters; deposit slips and bank statements; petty cash; payroll data.

Veterinary Practice Procedures
Practical applications for accounting, interpersonal communications, and office administration skills.

Supplements:
• Work Experience Option (online only)
• Successful Job Seeking (online only)

 

Online Library and Librarian
Students in Penn Foster Career School have access to an online library for use during their studies. Students can use this library to do the required research in the courses they complete or can use it for general reference and links to valuable resources. The library contains helpful research assistance, articles, databases, books, and Web links. A librarian is available to answer questions on general research-related topics via email and to assist students in research activities during their studies with Penn Foster Career School.

You must be 18 years old and have a high school diploma or GED to enroll in this program.

We reserve the right to change program content and materials when it becomes necessary.