Veterinary Genetics and Reproduction

Curriculum Guideline

Effective Date:
Course
Discontinued
No
Course Code
VTEC 2315
Descriptive
Veterinary Genetics and Reproduction
Department
Veterinary Technology
Faculty
Science & Technology
Credits
2.00
Start Date
End Term
Not Specified
PLAR
No
Semester Length
10 Weeks
Max Class Size
30
Course Designation
None
Contact Hours

4 hours/week lecture and online (or hybrid)

Method(s) Of Instruction
Hybrid
Lecture
Learning Activities

Methods of instruction include lecture, pre-recorded lectures and webinars, group work, seminars, flipped classroom, online quizzes and assignments.

Course Description
This course will introduce genetics and the basics of genetic disease. Breeding strategies to decrease the frequency of genetic disease will be discussed. Normal and abnormal reproductive anatomy and physiology of the common domestic species will be reviewed. Discussion will include the reproductive cycle of each species and signs and symptoms associated with normal parturition and dystocia. The veterinary team's role in assisting with the reproductive process will be emphasized.
Course Content

Genetics

  • Genetic material, cell division and production of gametes
  • Mendelian patterns of inheritance and their relevance to genetic disease in domestic animals
  • Punnett squares and pedigree charts
  • Sex chromosomes, sex determination, sex-linked conditions

Breed specific genetic diseases

  • Common and relevant genetic diseases in the domestic species
  • Reproductive anatomy and physiology of domestic species
  • Estrus determination and manipulation of the estrous cycle
  • Breeding soundness exam and reproductive diagnostic techniques
  • Breeding programs, artificial insemination and embryo transfer
  • Pregnancy and dystocia diagnosis and management
  • Perinatal care
Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the successful student will be able to:

  1. Discuss the principles of genetics and inheritance with emphasis on their applications.
  2. Use tools such as the Punnett square and pedigree charting to counsel clients in decision-making about animal breeding programs.
  3. Discuss reproductive anatomy and physiology in both companion animal and food animal species.
  4. Explain the signs of normal pregnancy, normal parturition and dystocia in companion animal and food animal species and be able to counsel owners when veterinary intervention is needed.
  5. Describe the application of reproductive diagnostic techniques.
  6. Explain techniques used in semen collection, artificial insemination and embryo transfer.
  7. Discuss manipulation of the reproductive cycle in various species.
Means of Assessment

All assessments will be carried out in accordance with Douglas College Evaluation Policy. The instructor will present a written course outline with specific evaluation criteria at the beginning of the semester. A final minimum cumulative grade of “C” or 60% is required in order to pass this course.

Evaluation will be based on:

Quizzes, projects, assignments   30-50% (No single evaluation worth more than 25%)

Midterms                                  10-40%

Final exam                                20-40%

Textbook Materials

Consult the Douglas College Bookstore for the latest required textbooks and materials.

Prerequisites

VTEC 1201 and VTEC 1202 and VTEC 1203 and VTEC 1204 and VTEC 1205 and VTEC 2107

Students in the Veterinary Technology program are required to maintain a minimum grade of (C) in all courses in order to progress in the program.

Corequisites

Courses listed here must be completed either prior to or simultaneously with this course:

  • No corequisite courses
Equivalencies

Courses listed here are equivalent to this course and cannot be taken for further credit:

  • No equivalency courses