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
- Identify and describe the lifecycles of the common parasites of domestic animals and the importance in control and treatment.
- Recall and perform the appropriate recovery techniques for identification of parasites.
- Identify and name common parasites in domestic animals.
- Articulate various and appropriate treatment and control options available for common parasites.
- Identify and explain the zoonotic potential associated with common parasites.
- 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:
- 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.
