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Thompson Rivers University
Thompson Rivers University

VTEC 1201: Veterinary Parasitology

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

In this course, students develop a practical understanding of the principles and techniques used to identify internal and external parasites of common household pets and farm animals. Students gain instruction in the aid of further parasitic treatment, husbandry and client education.

Learning outcomes

  1. Identify and describe the lifecycles of the common parasites of domestic animals and the importance in control and treatment.
  2. Recall and perform the appropriate recovery techniques for identification of parasites.
  3. Identify and name common parasites in domestic animals.
  4. Articulate various and appropriate treatment and control options available for common parasites.
  5. Identify and explain the zoonotic potential associated with common parasites.
  6. Discuss common parasites and their control and treatment with clients.

Course topics

Module 1: Introduction to Parasitology and Microscopy

Module 2: Methods of Control, Introduction to Endoparasites, and Recovery Techniques

Module 3: Nematodes (Ascarids and Lungworms) and Simple Flotation

Module 4: Nematodes (Threadworm, Hookworm, Strongyles, Trichostronglyes) and Centrifugation Flotation

Module 5: Nematodes (Trichuroidea, Oxyuroidea, Filarioidea) and Cellophane Tape Method

Module 6: Cestodes, Squash Smear, and Baermann Technique

Module 7: Trematodes and Sedimentation Technique

Module 8: Protozoans, Direct Smear, and Zinc Sulphate Centrifugation

Module 9: Blood Parasites, Heartworm, and Modified Knott’s Test

Module 10: Ectoparasites (Fleas, Lice, and Flies)

Module 11: Ectoparasites (Ticks and Mites)

Module 12: Endoparasites Antiparasitics

Module 13: Ectoparasite Antiparasitics

Required text and materials

The following materials are required for this course:

  1. Hendrix, C. M. (2023). Diagnostic parasitology for veterinary technicians (6th ed.). Elsevier.
    Type: Textbook: ISBN 978032383103-1

Additional requirements

Students will also need the following:

  • A computer with Internet access
  • A video recording device

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, students must achieve a passing grade of 60% or higher on the overall course, and 50% or higher on the final mandatory exam.

The following table illustrates how your final grade will be determined for this course.

Assignment 1: Recovery Chart – Fecal Examinations 15%
Quiz 1: Introduction and Recovery Techniques 5%
Quiz 2: Nematodes and Recovery Techniques 5%
Assignment 2: Centrifugation Flotation Video 7.5%
Quiz 3: Tichuroidea, Oxyuroidea, Filarioidea, Cestodes and Recovery Techniques 5%
Assignment 3: Parasitology Brochure/Client Education 7.5%
Quiz 4: Trematodes, Protozoans, and Recovery Techniques 5%
Assignment 4: Ectoparasite Collection and Preparation 5%
Quiz 5: Blood Parasites, Ectoparasites, and Recovery Techniques 5%
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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