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Thompson Rivers University
Thompson Rivers University

VTEC 1101: Veterinary Office Management

AVAILABLE IN CANADA ONLY FOR STUDENTS ENROLLED IN THE VETERINARY TECHNOLOGY DIPLOMA OPEN LEARNING PROGRAM

Students are introduced to effective veterinary management skills with a focus on fostering professional communication within a veterinary environment. With both a theoretical and hands-on approach, veterinary technology students will learn how to effectively employ communication strategies through a variety of methods.

Learning outcomes

  1. Demonstrate proficiency in professional oral and written communication within the veterinary profession.
  2. Examine the parameters of professional ethics and understand professional association regulations.
  3. Perform generalized practice management skills within a veterinary office environment.
  4. Perform basic functions using veterinary practice software.
  5. Examine stress management and alternative techniques to assist with mental health within the profession.
  6. Demonstrate the appropriate use of medical records to manage a veterinary hospital, using professional communication.
  7. Discuss and recognize animal welfare related topics.
  8. Demonstrate knowledge of proper kennel management and sanitation in a veterinary facility.

Course topics

Module 1: Professionalism and Communications

Module 2: Stress Management

Module 3: Patient Records

Module 4: Professional Ethics and Associations

Module 5: Animal Welfare

Module 6: Practice Management

Module 7: The Veterinary Facility

Module 8: Finances

Module 9: Kennel Management and Hospital Sanitation

Required text and materials

The following materials are required for this course:

  1. Bassert, J.M. (2022) McCurnin’s clinical textbook for veterinary technicians (10th ed.) Elsevier.
    Type: Textbook. ISBN: 9780323722001

Optional materials

The following textbooks are optional for this course:

  • VanAlstyne, J. S. (2004). Professional and technical writing strategies: Communicating in technology and science (6th ed.). Pearson.
    Type: Textbook. ISBN: 978-0-13-191520-7
  • Studdert, V. P., & Gay, C. C. (2020). Saunders comprehensive veterinary dictionary (5th ed.). Elselvier.
    Type: Textbook. ISBN: 978-0-7020-7463-9

Note: This textbook is also available as an e-text.

Assessments

Please be aware that should your course have a final exam, you are responsible for the fee to the online proctoring service, ProctorU, or to the in-person approved Testing Centre. Please contact exams@tru.ca with any questions about this.

To successfully complete this course, you must achieve a passing grade of 60% or higher on the overall course and 50% or higher on the mandatory Final Exam.

Assignment 1: Personal Reflection on Stress Management 5%
Assignment 2: Group Discussion—Animal Welfare and Ethics 15%
Assignment 3: Leadership Personality Assessment 5%
Assignment 4: My Workplace Facility 10%
Assignment 5: Hospital Sanitation 5%
Quizzes (4) 20%
Final Exam (mandatory) 40%
Total 100%

Open Learning Faculty Member Information

An Open Learning Faculty Member is available to assist students. Students will receive the necessary contact information at the start of the course.

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