****PLEASE READ**** if this course has no openings or times that work for your family, or any openings for fall as you go to register, there is an option for Introduction to Veterinary/ Vet Science (self-paced) . This course has the same material in a recorded lesson but still has access to the teacher through the online classroom via the comments *******


Students will learn about some of the things that veterinarians and veterinary technicians do to help keep animals happy and healthy. A brief overview of a variety of topics will be discussed with future classes to be offered with more detail. 

This class is discussion and Q & A based. 
Class 1- Introduction to the Veterinary Practice Team and some of the opportunities in vet medicine. In this class we will explore the various roles that veterinary practice team members have in the care of clients/patients. We will also explore some of the possibilities in the different areas of veterinary practice.

Class 2- Class will focus on feline and canine body language and communication. 

Class 3- Physical Exams, Vital Signs and Restraint. In class 3 we will discuss the importance of a pets annual physical exam, and students will learn the basics of how a doctor conducts the exam. Normal vital signs will be discussed.  Canine and feline restraint techniques will be discussed , and “kitty burritos” will be practiced. BRING A SMALL TO MEDIUM SIZED STUFFED ANIMAL AND A TOWEL. 

Class 4- Surgery. Surgery prep, surgery/OR conduct, and surgical recovery will be discussed. A variety of surgical equipment and surgical instruments will be learned. 

Class 5- Radiology 
The taking of X-rays and X-ray safety will be discussed. A variety of radiographs will be shown and students will be able to help diagnose the problems. 
A second topic for extra learning, dentistry,  will be given to learners to explore after class with PowerPoint slides and additional YouTube videos. The importance of dental care and how a common veterinary dental exam/cleaning will be learned. 

Class 6- Veterinary laboratories are very important in keeping our pets healthy and to diagnose any problems. Common lab tests will be discussed and some slides will be shown to give students a chance to see what a veterinary lab technician may view under a microscope. 

Additional supplemental YouTube videos will posted weekly after class for follow up to the class topic. This will include 1-2 actual surgery videos and a few on sick pets. No videos are required, and if a student chooses not to watch the surgery video for example, that’s fine.