Program Overview
Veterinary Technicians assist the Veterinarian in the medical care of animals. Duties include radiography (taking x-rays), nursing, dentistry, nutritional support, minor surgery and laboratory procedures for animals. This program will appeal to students with experience related to animals. They must have a strong background in science and math and good communication skills. Due to the physical demands of the job, they should also have the ability to lift and carry up to 25 kg.
Program Highlights
- Accredited by the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association.
- Teaching hospital accredited by the College of Veterinarians of Ontario
- Facilities and animal use approved by the Canadian Council on Animal Care.
- Accredited by the Ontario Association of Veterinary Technicians.
- Work experience during semester two and four.
- Graduates are eligible to write the North American Veterinary Technician exam to qualify for registration with the Ontario Association of Veterinary Technicians.
Career Opportunities
Numerous positions exist in:
- Small and Large Animal Veterinary Clinics
- Livestock Health Facilities
- Wildlife Centres
- Pathology Clinics
- Zoological Parks
- Research Laboratory
- Entrepreneurship
- Animal Behaviourist
- Educator
- Practice Manager
- Humane Societies
- Pharmaceutical and Pet Food Industry
We invite you to explore www.rvtcareernavigator.ca to engage your passion and find your future in Veterinary medicine. Registered Veterinary Technologist/Technicians of Canada (RVTTC)
Admission Requirements
OSSD with the majority of courses at the College (C), University (U), University/College (M) or Open (O) level plus successful completion of:
- Grade 12 English - ENG4U, ENG4C, EAE4C or EAE4U
- Grade 12 Math (C) or (U)
- Senior Level Biology (C) or (U)
- Senior Level Chemistry (C) or (U)
OR
- Equivalent courses from the Pre-Health Sciences Pathway to Advanced Diplomas and Degrees program or the Academic and Career Entrance program.
Mature students - See Admission Procedures for details.
For more information, see the Admission Procedures document on the Admission Procedures page.
Important Information
This is a HIGH-INTEREST program and has the potential to become oversubscribed. Applicants are advised to apply before February 1st. See Admission Procedures for details.
Field/Clinical Placements
Clinical placements may be on day, afternoon or weekend shifts anywhere in Ontario. Students are required to provide their own transportation to the clinical area. The College is not able to guarantee placements in Windsor-Essex or on a bus route.
Selection Procedure
A score is determined for each applicant derived from the required subjects for admission. Scores are then ranked by highest score and selection is made for the available positions and places on the waiting list.
A score for a current high school applicant is determined for each applicant from the overall average of all Grade 11 courses and the first semester of Grade 12 courses. Applicants must be registered in all required courses in order to be considered.
Applicants will be ranked by highest score and selection will be made on a conditional basis for the available positions and places on the waiting list.
Recommended
Because of the unique nature of this program, it is recommended that before applying for the program you:
- Interview a Registered Veterinary Technician
- Obtain experience in a veterinary clinic
Health Requirements
Prophylactic rabies immunization is REQUIRED and should be arranged through your Family Physician, local Public Health office, or can be obtained at the College. The cost is approximately $700 and is usually recovered through most drug plans.
Courses
The curriculum below is for incoming students:
Semester 2
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
|
VET209
|
Introduction To Veterinary Radiography |
2
|
|
VET216
|
Clinical Principles I |
4
|
|
VET210
|
Animal Anatomy & Physiology II |
5
|
|
VET212
|
Laboratory Procedures II |
5
|
|
VET223
|
Clinical Exercises I |
4
|
|
VET211
|
Veterinary Technician Pharmacology |
2
|
|
VET214
|
Veterinary Technician Anesthesia |
2
|
|
VET219
|
Veterinary Technician Placement |
5
|
Semester 3
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|
Semester 4
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|
Placement (VET219) in Semester 2 takes place the first 3 weeks of May.
Program Physical Demands Analysis
Program Vocational Learning Outcomes
Veterinary Technician (Ontario College Diploma) (MTCU Code 51603)
The successful completion of this program will enable the graduate to:
- Communicate in a professional manner with clients and veterinary care professionals using effective verbal, non-verbal and written skills.
- Assist the Veterinarian during surgical and therapeutic procedures by providing appropriate patient care techniques and through the maintenance of an aseptic operating room environment.
- Collect, process, report and analyze diagnostic tests on various specimens using appropriate tools, equipment and techniques.
- Produce and provide technical evaluation of diagnostic images utilizing knowledge of theory, principles and concepts of veterinary practice.
- Administer and monitor anesthesia, analgesia and therapeutics in accordance with the veterinary scope of practice and laws governing the profession.
- Perform dental procedures following professional veterinary industry standards.
- Perform veterinary nursing care in a professional and ethical manner through the integration of veterinary theory, principles and concepts within the scope of practice, regulations and governing laws of the profession.
- Document and maintain information records and files securely and accurately following veterinary office procedures and regulated standards.
- Operate and maintain standard veterinary medical equipment following health and safety regulations and in accordance with veterinary profession standards.