Course Description
This course provides a foundation for basic anatomy, physiology and animal nutrition, starting with the positional and directional planes of the body and veterinary medical terminology. Students will be introduced to basic concepts of biochemistry and cell biology and how these processes are involved in animal nutrition. The anatomy, physiology and diseases of the skeletal and muscular systems of both small (canine, feline) and large (ruminant, equine, porcine) animals are covered.
Course Content
Veterinary medical terminology:
- vocabulary, root words, suffixes, prefixes, abbreviations and pronunciation of terms
- component parts and their use to make words
- pronunciation of medical words - basic combining forms, prefixes and suffixes
The structure and function of cells:
- structure and function of cell membranes and various cytoplasmic and nuclear components
- major cellular processes and their significance to the cell
- cellular organelles and inclusion bodies
- preparation of histological sections, including techniques for fixation and sample submission
Comparative anatomy and physiology beyond the cellular level:
- structure and function of the four tissue types
- major body systems, their major organs, and the general function of each organ
- directional terms as they relate to various species
Causes of disease
- pathogens: parasites, bacteria, viruses, fungi, protozoa
- factors predisposing to disease
Basic veterinary nutrition:
- nutrition terminology
- macro and micronutrients
- ingredients used in canine & feline diets
- feeding styles including raw, homecooked, commercial and veterinary exclusive diets
- pet food label interpretation and regulations
The skeletal system:
- structure, physiology, and function of bone
- changes in skeletal structure during growth and development (ossification)
- detailed comparative anatomy of the skeletal and accessory structures
- axial and appendicular skeleton and joints of various species
- common diseases and disorders of the skeletal system in large and small animals
The muscular system:
- gross anatomy of muscles and microscopic anatomy of muscle tissue
- skeletal, cardiac and smooth muscles and their anatomical locations
- principal muscles and muscle groups and their attachments
- physiology of muscle contraction
- common diseases and disorders of the muscular system in large and small animals
Learning Activities
Instructional methods may include recorded lectures, group work, presentations, case studies, discussion boards, preparation of client education handouts, quizzes, written assignments, client communication simulations, and guest speakers.
Means of Assessment
Assessment will be in accordance with the Douglas College Evaluation Policy. The instructor will present a written course outline with specific evaluation criteria at the beginning of the semester. Evaluation will be based on the following:
Assignments: 30-50% (no assignment worth more than 20%)
Quizzes: 10-30% (no quiz worth more than 20%)
Final Exam: 20-40%
Total: 100%
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
- define veterinary medical terminology using word analysis;
- correctly pronounce medical terms;
- describe anatomical structures and body systems, using appropriate terminology;
- identify and recognize common terms used for various species and their anatomical parts;
- describe and identify cell and tissue types in the body;
- differentiate between common infectious causes of disease;
- discuss basic nutrients, including their normal physiological effects and diseases associated with nutrient deficiency and excess;
- identify the common ingredient sources used to provide specific nutrients in pet foods;
- differentiate commercial veterinary exclusive diets from grocery, pet store, homemade and raw food diets based on research, innovative ingredients and clinical support;
- interpret and understand pet food labels and discuss North American pet food regulations;
- calculate feeding amounts for any diet both manually and using software tools;
- identify the components of the skeleton and describe the structure and growth of long bones;
- describe the types and range of movements of skeletal articulations (joints);
- describe common diseases affecting the skeletal system of large and small animals and discuss recommended treatments;
- describe the location, structure and functions of the major muscles;
- describe the gross and microanatomy of muscle tissue and the physiology of muscle contraction;
- describe common diseases affecting the muscular system of large and small animals and discuss recommended treatments.
Textbook Materials
Consult the Douglas College Bookstore for the latest required textbooks and materials. Example textbooks and materials may include:
- Colville, T.P. & Bassert, J.M. (Current Edition). Clinical Anatomy & Physiology for Veterinary Technicians. Mosby.
- Romich, J.A. (Current Edition). An Illustrated Guide to Veterinary Medical Terminology. Thomson Delmar Learning.