ÅÝܽÊÓƵ

  - Instructor

"Ms. Reynolds is a licensed veterinary technician in the state of Alaska, and has been in the veterinary field since 2010.  She has worked with a wide assortment of animals, including dogs, cats, guinea pigs, wild birds, and polar bears.  Ms. Reynolds was born and raised in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.  She has a Bachelor of Science degree in Biological Sciences and an Associate degree in Veterinary Technology. " 

Grade level 11-12. Entrance into the program requires a “C” or better in 2 semesters of Biology I. Progression through the program requires teacher recommendation, a “B” or better in all courses, 90% or better in professionalism, and successful completion of all NAVTA required skills.

Why take this course?

• Use the same equipment as industry professionals to examine and treat animals
• Develop valuable critical thinking skills that serve in evaluating patients and assessing health
• Work with animals daily to develop confidence and hands on skills
• Earn industry certifications to prepare for immediate employment and further education
• Participate in community service and compete against other schools in leadership, teamwork, and veterinary science competitions

Veterinary Assisting is a rigorous program that consists of three courses designed to train students for a career as an Approved Veterinary Assistant (AVA) as well as prepare them for further education in the field of veterinary medicine. Topics include: hospital management, career exploration, animal management, terminology, diseases and preventive medicine, pharmacy practices, and small animal nursing.

Advanced students will continue their study of veterinary medicine and develop a deeper understanding of body systems, nursing techniques, lab techniques, surgical assisting, diagnostic procedures, and specialty medicine.

The NAVTA approved Veterinary Assisting program requires the completion of both the Veterinary Assisting and Advanced Veterinary Assisting courses, and a 100-hr Clinical Rotation. 

As an exploratory, students may take the introductory course.

Classes require both academic and physical participation. ÅÝܽÊÓƵapps must be able to bend and to pick up a minimum of 40 lbs. ÅÝܽÊÓƵapps will be exposed to several animal species which are required to meet the competencies set forth by NAVTA and are needed to work as a Veterinary Assistant. The program utilizes dogs in class regularly to facilitate clinical training for development of essential skills. ÅÝܽÊÓƵapps will also gain experience with cats, reptiles, birds, and large animals in class or through field trips. ÅÝܽÊÓƵapps will learn medical and surgical nursing skills, explore animal related professions, and educational requirements for veterinary careers.

ÅÝܽÊÓƵapps demonstrate competency through written exams, performance of NAVTA skills, professionalism, and comprehensive case studies. Teamwork and participation are essential components of success in this program with students working daily in groups. Excellent attendance and punctuality are critical for student success, completion of hands on skills, and the care of program animals.

ÅÝܽÊÓƵapps also will manage in a canine daycare and grooming program that is open for enrollment on a limited basis.

Credits and Certifications

Veterinary Assisting

0.5 Life Science

0.5 Math

0.5 Elective

Advanced Veterinary Assisting

0.5 Life Science

1.0 Elective

Clinical Practices in Veterinary Science

0.5 Elective

ProTrainings Animal CPR/First Aid certification

Fear Free Certified Professional certification

NAVTA Approved Veterinary Assistant certification