Veterinary Assisting Curriculum Name of Institution

Veterinary
Assisting
Diploma Program

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Veterinary Assisting Curriculum

Program Name:
Diploma in Veterinary Assisting

Program Description:
Veterinary Assistants/ Animal Care Specialists provide patient care support to veterinarians in clinics
and hospitals, biological research settings, animal control, humane and non-profit organizations, zoos
and educational facilities.

Graduates of this program will be qualified for animal care careers at facilities where animals are
maintained such as veterinary hospitals, shelter facilities/ kennels, humane societies and research
facilities. Included in the curriculum are animal care courses and general education courses that
complement the major. Qualified students participate in an off-campus internships and a final quarter
practicum.

Degree Type: Diploma

Degree Level Associate
Hours 600 Clock Hours

Typical Job Description:

“Veterinary assistants directly handle inpatient and outpatient care, and work hand-in-hand with
veterinarians. They assist in exam rooms by taking patients' history, vital signs and weight; preparing
vaccines; collecting samples and running diagnostic tests; providing client education; and assisting with
animal restraint. Assistants also may see their own appointments for procedures such as suture
removal, nail trims, vaccine administration when a doctor exam is not required, long-term medication
monitoring testing, and surgery admission. Assistants directly impact doctors' productivity, client service
and patient care. Assistants play a key role in communicating with clients in person and by phone for
follow-up care and patient monitoring.”

http://www.indeed.com/viewjob?jk=0595004cff9b8198&q=Animal+Care&tk=173jorl8r183i6ri&from=w
eb

Program Mission Statement:

The Veterinary Assisting program is designed to provide graduates with the competencies they need to
assist with a variety of responsibilities within a veterinary practice.

Program Vision Statement:

The Veterinary assisting program seeks to accomplish its mission through the delivery of timely, valid,
and effective instruction, which provides both physical and intellectual access to learning.

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Veterinary Assisting Curriculum

Program Value Statement:

The Veterinary Assisting program values professional practitioners who perform within the ethics of
professional practice, with care and respect for animal, their health and psychological needs, and with
an understanding of the emotional needs of animals and their owners.

Program Validation:
http://www.indeed.com/viewjob?jk=0595004cff9b8198&q=Animal+Care&tk=173jorl8r183i6ri&from=
web
http://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/veterinary-assistings-and-laboratory-animal-caretakers.htm
https://www.abso.com/jobboard/default.aspx?JobDetail=118011&JOBBOARDID=239&SRCID=Indeed.
com
http://www.animalcarechicago.com/contact/index.php
http://animalfriendsshelter.com/lostfound.html
https://www.calopps.org/ViewAgencyJob.cfm?ID=12429&kw=
http://www.indeed.com/jobs?q=Animal+Care&start=10
http://www.dacvb.org/

Program Competencies:

To successfully complete this program, graduates will be expected to demonstrate the following
competencies:

Vet Business
Front Office Procedures
Perform an array of administrative duties independently or under supervision in a veterinary
office
Veterinary Assisting
Assist a veterinarian in the performance of veterinary medicine and surgery.
Veterinary Technician Assisting
Assist in the care and well-being of the animals in a veterinary facility.
Animal Health Observer
Observe and evaluate the behavior and health of animals presented to a veterinary practice.
Animal Behavior --Assist with the management of behavior problems and improve the well-
being of animals.

Animal Care
Preventive Care Educator
Instruct staff and clients in the prevention, early detection, and care of animals as directed by
a veterinarian
Pet Boarding Caregiver
Provide safe, hygienic, humane, and effective care for animals that are boarded in an animal

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care facility.
Lab Animal Caregiver
Provide safe, humane, and effective care of laboratory animals for research and ensure
compliance with all applicable standards.
Companion Animal Caregiver
Assess and evaluate specific animal behavior in the training and placement of animals who
serve as companion animals.
Sheltered Animal Caregiver
Provide safe, humane, and effective care of animals who are sheltered for protection and
ensure compliance with all applicable standards.
Pet Assisted Therapy Assistant
Provide safe, humane, and effective care of animals who assist in therapeutic settings and
ensure compliance with all applicable standards.
Humane Services
Conduct and enforce ethical and legal regulation in the care of abused and neglected animals.

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Table 1
Organization Values Articulated with Program Competencies
Organizational Values Program Outcomes
Veterinary Business

Front Office Procedures

Perform an array of administrative duties
independently or under supervision in a veterinary
office
Veterinary Assisting
Assist a veterinarian in the performance of veterinary
medicine and surgery.
Veterinary Technician Assisting
Assist in the care and well-being of the animals in a
veterinary facility.
Organize and maintain accurate records in a veterinary
office
Animal Health Observer
Observe and evaluate the behavior and health of
animals presented to a veterinary practice.
Animal Behavior
Assist with the management of behavior problems and
improve the well-being of animals.
Animal Care

Preventive Care Educator

Instruct staff and clients in the prevention, early
detection, and care of animals as directed by a
veterinarian
Pet Boarding Caregiver
Provide safe, hygienic, humane, and effective care for
animals that are boarded in an animal care facility.
Laboratory Animal Caregiver
Provide safe, humane, and effective care of laboratory
animals for research and ensure compliance with all
applicable standards.
Companion Animal Caregiver
Assess and evaluate specific animal behavior in the
training and placement of animals who serve as
companion animals.
Sheltered Animal Caregiver
Provide safe, humane, and effective care of animals
who are sheltered for protection and ensure
compliance with all applicable standards.
Pet Assisted Therapy Assisting

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Provide safe, humane, and effective care of animals

who assist in therapeutic settings and ensure
compliance with all applicable standards.
Humane Services
Conduct and enforce ethical and legal regulation in the
care of abused and neglected animals.

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Table 2
Program Competencies Articulated with Learning Objectives

Program Competencies Program Learning Objectives

VETERINARY BUSINESS

Front Office Procedures 1. Prepare and maintain financial and patient

Perform an array of clerical records in compliance with office and insurance
veterinary/office duties independently regulations:
or under supervision in a veterinary 2. Operate computer and specialized
office medical/veterinary software
3. Organize and maintain appointment schedule
and follow-up
4. Maintain logs required by law including
medication, surgical, anesthesia and radiography

Veterinary Assisting 1. Evaluate the general physical and behavioral

Assist a veterinarian in the health of the animal, e.g., animal's age and any
performance of veterinary preexisting conditions.
examinations and treatments. 2. Prepare the examination room, equipment,
instrument and other supplies to meet the needs
of the patient
3. - Assist in surgical procedures
4. Prepare and discuss treatment plans
5. - Obtain animal health histories and create
records
6. Apply the procedure of CPR/First Aid in the
veterinarian setting
7. Prepare, administer and/or dispense
pharmacological agents (excluding anesthetics)
to comply with veterinary prescription as
directed by a veterinarian
Veterinary Technician Assisting 1. Obtain, record and maintain treatment notes
Record, Organize, and maintain 2. Handle and track animal samples
accurate records in a veterinary 3. Handle containers in the handling/delivering
practice samples
4. Provide proper handling and restraint of animals
for collection of samples as required by protocol
– tagging, taking temperature, swabbing ,
vaccination and blood
5.
6. Perform daily grooming of animals – exercising.
Animal Health Observer 1. Evaluate the general physical and behavioral
Observe and evaluate the behavior and health of the animal, e.g., animal's age and any
health of animals presented to a preexisting conditions.

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veterinary practice. 2. Identify behaviors animals present upon intake

in veterinary office
3. Assess Animal physical condition at presentation
4. Chart observations clearly
5. Assess emotional condition at presentation
6. Evaluate owner’s behavior, physical condition,
emotional condition.
1.
Preventive Care Educator 2. Instruct client on the safety, feeding, walking and
Instruct staff and clients in the the maintenance of clean and sterile facilities
prevention, early detection, and care 3. Educate clients about wellness, preventive care,
of animals as directed by a veterinarian pet health needs, hospital services and other
issues.
4. Examine animals for signs of aging, physical
changes and nutrition
5. Perform proper grooming techniques – brushing,
ear inspection, dental care, examination of body
and skin and baths
Pet Boarding Caregiver 1. Conduct animal feeding, watering and
Provide safe, hygienic, humane, and maintaining animal feed schedules
effective care for animals that are 2. Animal health care and maintaining treatment
boarded in an animal care facility. records
3. Maintain the shelter areas
4. Perform Species health checks
5. Prepare and set up treatment protocols
Laboratory Animal Caregiver 1. Handle all laboratory animals correctly and
Provide safe, humane, and effective humanely to avoid injury to the animal
care of laboratory animals for research 2. Maintain accurate record of data
and ensure compliance with all 3. Provide and maintain clean cages and the animal
applicable standards. facility
4. Prepare food, water and bedding, hygiene and
light medication for laboratory animals
5. Written and oral communication
6. Employ Proper and safe handling of potentially
pathogenic materials and the monitoring of
equipment and other applicable facilities
Companion Animal Caregiver
1. Assess Animal Behavior
Assess and evaluate specific animal
2. Understand the Human-Animal Bond
behavior in the training and placement
3. Provide Training and Supervision of animals
of animals who serve as companion
4. Select Placement of animals
animals.
Sheltered Animal Caregiver 1. Operate and maintain clean and safe
Provide safe, humane, and effective environment
care of animals who are sheltered for 2. Match and select animal for group housing
protection and ensure compliance with 3. Apply the proper procedures in the handling of
all applicable standards. animals
4. Arrange and prepare animal and containers for

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transport
5. Protect the animals from disease and injury
6. Administer vaccinations and euthanize sick and
dying animals under the supervision of the
Veterinarian
7. Maintain accurate record keeping in the
documentation of intake and outtake of animals
utilizing the Shelter Buddy Software.
Pet Assisted Therapy Assisting 1. Explore Animal- Human Relationship
Provide safe, humane, and effective 2. Evaluate the general physical and behavioral
care of animals that assist in health of the animal, e.g., animal's age and any
therapeutic settings and ensure preexisting conditions.
compliance with all applicable 3. Examine Legislation and Insurance policies and
standards. procedures in compliance with standards
associated with Pet Assisted Therapy
4. Provide healthy, clean and safe environment
5. Evaluate/Assess risks to minimize injuries and
accidents and develop treatment plans when
applicable
6. Apply/Practice policies, protocols and quality
assurance guidelines and local, state and federal
laws governing the care of animals
Humane Services 1. Providing a healthy, safe, clean and pleasant
Conduct and enforce ethical and legal environment and facilities for the animals and
regulation in the care of abused and the public
neglected animals. 2. Arrange, conduct, and secure rescue efforts
3. Confirm, conduct and follow-up on reports of
abuse and neglect of animals
4. Assist in conducting behavior assessment and
health screening necessary in the processing of
the adoption application
5. Develop strategies to teach and advocate for
humane ethics in the treatment of animals
through community –wide campaigns, humane
education in the community and school
6. Provide humane postmortem care and
disposition of euthanized animals
7. Provide information on the adoption process and
relinquishment of animals

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Table 3
Distribution of Learning Objectives into Courses
Number Name Description

VA001 Veterinary Office Procedures This course will explain and apply the skills, procedures and practices commonly use
in a veterinary office: Topics to include financial and patient records, computers,
appointment scheduling and follow-up and record/log maintenance.
To successfully complete this course, the student will demonstrate the ability to:
• Prepare and maintain financial and patient records in compliance with office
and insurance regulations:
• Operate computer and specialized medical/veterinary software
• Organize and maintain appointment schedule and follow-up
• Maintain logs required by law including medication, surgical, anesthesia and
radiography

VA002 Veterinary Assisting This course will examine the procedures and rules associated with the diagnoses,
behavior and treatment of animal a veterinary facility. Topics include Examination,
treatment, CPR/First Aid and Basic Pharmacology.
To successfully complete this course, the student will demonstrate the ability to:
• Evaluate the general physical and behavioral health of the animal, e.g.,
animal's age and any preexisting conditions.
• Prepare the examination room, equipment, instrument and other supplies to
meet the needs of the patient
- Assist in surgical procedures
• Prepare and discuss treatment plans
- Obtain animal health histories and create records
• Apply the procedure of CPR/First Aid in the veterinarian setting
• Prepare, administer and/or dispense pharmacological agents (excluding
anesthetics) to comply with veterinary prescription as directed by a
veterinarian

VA003 Veterinary Technician Assisting This course will develop techniques in organizational and recording keeping skills and

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the care of animals; Topics to include: Handling/Delivering samples, Recording

treatment notes and Sample Tracking
To successfully complete this course, the student will demonstrate the ability to:
• Obtain, record and maintain treatment notes
• Handle and track animal samples
• Handle containers in the handling/delivering samples
• Provide proper handling and restraint of animals for collection of samples as
required by protocol – tagging, taking temperature, swabbing , vaccination
and blood
• Perform daily grooming of animals – exercising.

VA004 Animal Health Observer This course will discuss and assess the behavior and health of animal presented in a
veterinary office. Topics to include: health, behavior.
To successfully complete this course, the student will demonstrate the ability to:
• Evaluate the general physical and behavioral health of the animal, e.g.,
animal's age and any preexisting conditions.
• Identify behaviors animals present upon intake in veterinary office
• Assess Animal physical condition at presentation
• Chart observations clearly
• Assess emotional condition at presentation
• Evaluate owner’s behavior, physical condition, emotional condition.

VA005 Animal Behavior This course will identify and discuss the causes, functions, development and
progression of disorders and phobias in animal behaviors. Topics include anxiety and
compulsive disorders, elimination problems, and aggressive behaviors

To successfully complete this course, the student will demonstrate the ability to:
• Identify factors affecting animal behavior.
• Determine the influence of environmental factors on animal behavior.
• Identify the factors that might contribute to animal aggression, play, sexual
behavior, communication, and other behavior
• Determine how to avoid elimination problems and the psychological effect
on animals, such as marking.

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• Identify possible causes for abnormal animal behaviors and ways to reduce
them.

AC001 Preventive Care Educator This Course will explore methods used in the prevention of animal diseases to
promote well-being. Topics to include: nutrition, wellness, geriatric care, Pet
Loss/Grief Advisor and Grooming
To successfully complete this course, the student will demonstrate the ability to:
• Instruct client on the safety, feeding, walking and the maintenance of clean
and sterile facilities
• Educate clients about wellness, preventive care, pet health needs, hospital
services and other issues.
• Examine animals for signs of aging, physical changes and nutrition
• Perform proper grooming techniques – brushing, ear inspection, dental care,
examination of body and skin and baths

AC002 Pet Boarding Caregiver This course will explore the safety, hygiene, treatment and care of animals that are
boarded in an animal facility; Topics to include safety, hygiene, humane treatment.
To successfully complete this course, the student will demonstrate the ability to:
• Conduct animal feeding, watering and maintaining animal feed schedules
• Animal health care and maintaining treatment records
• Maintain the shelter areas
• Perform Species health checks
• Prepare and set up treatment protocols

AC003 Laboratory Animal Caregiver This course will explain the ethical standards pertaining to the safety, treatment and
care of laboratory animals for research. Topic to include ethics, safety, and
laboratory procedures.
To successfully complete this course, the student will demonstrate the ability to:
• Handle all laboratory animals correctly and humanely to avoid injury to the
animal
• Maintain accurate record of data
• Provide and maintain clean cages and the animal facility

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• Prepare food, water and bedding, hygiene and light medication for
laboratory animals
• Written and oral communication
• Employ Proper and safe handling of potentially pathogenic materials and the
monitoring of equipment and other applicable facilities

AC004 Companion Animal Caregiver This course will examine the physical and therapeutic effect of animals as
. companions. Topics to include animal behavior, training, supervision, and placement.
To successfully complete this course, the student will demonstrate the ability to:
• Assess Animal Behavior
• Understand the Human-Animal Bond
• Provide Training and Supervision of animals
• Select Placement of animals

AC005 Sheltered Animal Caregiver This course will identify and evaluate the rules and regulations in compliance with
. applicable standards pertaining to the safety, wellbeing, treatment and care of
animals that are sheltered for protection. Topics to include: sanitation,
group housing ,handling, transport, public health and well-being
To successfully complete this course, the student will demonstrate the ability to:
• Operate and maintain clean and safe environment
• Match and select animal for group housing
• Apply the proper procedures in the handling of animals
• Arrange and prepare animal and containers for transport
• Protect the animals from disease and injury
• Administer vaccinations and euthanize sick and dying animals under the
supervision of the Veterinarian
• Maintain accurate record keeping in the documentation of intake and
outtake of animals utilizing the Shelter Buddy Software.

AC006 Pet Assisted Therapy Assisting This course will identify and explain specific characteristics of animals role in human
treatment: Topics to include: Animal-Human relationship, Animal behavior, and
Insurance, hygiene and risk evaluation.
To successfully complete this course, the student will demonstrate the ability to:

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• Explore Animal- Human Relationship

• Evaluate the general physical and behavioral health of the animal, e.g.,
animal's age and any preexisting conditions.
• Examine Legislation and Insurance policies and procedures in compliance
with standards associated with Pet Assisted Therapy
• Provide healthy, clean and safe environment
• Evaluate/Assess risks to minimize injuries and accidents and develop
treatment plans when applicable
• Apply/Practice policies, protocols and quality assurance guidelines and local,
state and federal laws governing the care of animals

AC007 Humane Services This course will examine the ethical and legal regulation in the care of abused and
neglected animals. Topics to include animal welfare, rescue, investigations, adoption,
advocacy and animal control.
To successfully complete this course, the student will demonstrate the ability to:
• Providing a healthy, safe, clean and pleasant environment and facilities
for the animals and the public
• Arrange, conduct, and secure rescue efforts
• Confirm, conduct and follow-up on reports of abuse and neglect of animals
• Assist in conducting behavior assessment and health screening necessary in
the processing of the adoption application
• Develop strategies to teach and advocate for humane ethics in the treatment
of animals through community –wide campaigns, humane education in the
community and school
• Provide humane postmortem care and disposition of euthanized animals
• Provide information on the adoption process and relinquishment of animals

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Prior Learning Assessment Rubric

Program Competencies Assessment Criteria—Each criterion Demonstration Demonstration Demonstration Demonstration
must be demonstrated to demonstrate Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Level 4
competence.
Front Office Procedures Prepare and maintain financial and Does Not Demonstrates Demonstrates Demonstrates
patient records in compliance with office Demonstrate knowledge of the ability to the ability to
Perform an array of clerical and insurance regulations: knowledge of this use and apply use and apply
veterinary/office duties Operate computer and specialized this competency this this
independently or under medical/veterinary software competency. only. competency in competency to
supervision in a veterinary Organize and maintain appointment a professional unusual or
office schedule and follow-up setting. unanticipated
Maintain logs required by law including circumstances.
medication, surgical, anesthesia and
radiography

Veterinary Assisting Evaluate the general physical and Does Not Demonstrates Demonstrates Demonstrates
behavioral health of the animal, e.g., Demonstrate knowledge of the ability to the ability to
Assist a veterinarian in the animal's age and any preexisting knowledge of this use and apply use and apply
performance of veterinary conditions. this competency this this
examinations and Prepare the examination room, competency. only. competency in competency to
treatments. equipment, instrument and other a professional unusual or
supplies to meet the needs of the patient setting. unanticipated
- Assist in surgical procedures circumstances.
Prepare and discuss treatment plans
- Obtain animal health histories and
create records
Apply the procedure of CPR/First Aid in
the veterinarian setting
Prepare, administer and/or dispense
pharmacological agents (excluding
anesthetics) to comply with veterinary
prescription as directed by a veterinarian
Veterinary Technician Obtain, record and maintain treatment Does Not Demonstrates Demonstrates Demonstrates

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Assisting notes Demonstrate knowledge of the ability to the ability to

Handle and track animal samples knowledge of this use and apply use and apply
Record, Organize, and Handle containers in the this competency this this
maintain accurate records in handling/delivering samples competency. only. competency in competency to
a veterinary practice Provide proper handling and restraint of a professional unusual or
animals for collection of samples as setting. unanticipated
required by protocol – tagging, taking circumstances.
temperature, swabbing , vaccination and
blood

Perform daily grooming of animals –

exercising.
Animal Health Observer Evaluate the general physical and Does Not Demonstrates Demonstrates Demonstrates
behavioral health of the animal, e.g., Demonstrate knowledge of the ability to the ability to
Observe and evaluate the animal's age and any preexisting knowledge of this use and apply use and apply
behavior and health of conditions. this competency this this
animals presented to a Identify behaviors animals present upon competency. only. competency in competency to
veterinary practice. intake in veterinary office a professional unusual or
Assess Animal physical condition at setting. unanticipated
presentation circumstances.
Chart observations clearly
Assess emotional condition at
presentation
Evaluate owner’s behavior, physical
condition, emotional condition.
Animal Behavior Identify factors affecting animal Does Not Demonstrates Demonstrates Demonstrates
behavior. Demonstrate knowledge of the ability to the ability to
Determine the influence of knowledge of this use and apply use and apply
environmental factors on animal this competency this this
behavior. competency. only. competency in competency to
Identify the factors that might contribute a professional unusual or
to animal aggression, play, sexual setting. unanticipated
behavior, communication, and other circumstances.
behavior

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Determine how to avoid elimination

problems and the psychological effect on
animals, such as marking.
Identify possible causes for abnormal
animal behaviors and ways to reduce
them.

Preventive Care Educator Instruct client on the safety, feeding, Does Not Demonstrates Demonstrates Demonstrates
walking and the maintenance of clean Demonstrate knowledge of the ability to the ability to
Instruct staff and clients in and sterile facilities knowledge of this use and apply use and apply
the prevention, early Educate clients about wellness, this competency this this
detection, and care of preventive care, pet health needs, competency. only. competency in competency to
animals as directed by a hospital services and other issues. a professional unusual or
veterinarian Examine animals for signs of aging, setting. unanticipated
physical changes and nutrition circumstances.
Perform proper grooming techniques –
brushing, ear inspection, dental care,
examination of body and skin and baths
Pet Boarding Caregiver Does Not Demonstrates Demonstrates Demonstrates
Conduct animal feeding, watering and
Demonstrate knowledge of the ability to the ability to
maintaining animal feed schedules
Provide safe, hygienic, knowledge of this use and apply use and apply
Animal health care and maintaining
humane, and effective care this competency this this
treatment records
for animals that are boarded competency. only. competency in competency to
Maintain the shelter areas
in an animal care facility. a professional unusual or
Perform Species health checks
setting. unanticipated
Prepare and set up treatment protocols
circumstances.
Laboratory Animal Caregiver Handle all laboratory animals correctly Does Not Demonstrates Demonstrates Demonstrates
and humanely to avoid injury to the Demonstrate knowledge of the ability to the ability to
Provide safe, humane, and animal knowledge of this use and apply use and apply
effective care of laboratory Maintain accurate record of data this competency this this
animals for research and Provide and maintain clean cages and competency. only. competency in competency to
ensure compliance with all the animal facility a professional unusual or
applicable standards. Prepare food, water and bedding, setting. unanticipated
hygiene and light medication for circumstances.

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laboratory animals
Written and oral communication
Employ Proper and safe handling of
potentially pathogenic materials and the
monitoring of equipment and other
applicable facilities
Companion Animal Does Not Demonstrates Demonstrates Demonstrates
Caregiver Demonstrate knowledge of the ability to the ability to
Assess Animal Behavior
knowledge of this use and apply use and apply
Understand the Human-Animal Bond
Assess and evaluate specific this competency this this
Provide Training and Supervision of
animal behavior in the competency. only. competency in competency to
animals
training and placement of a professional unusual or
Select Placement of animals
animals who serve as setting. unanticipated
companion animals. circumstances.
Sheltered Animal Caregiver Operate and maintain clean and safe Does Not Demonstrates Demonstrates Demonstrates
environment Demonstrate knowledge of the ability to the ability to
Provide safe, humane, and Match and select animal for group knowledge of this use and apply use and apply
effective care of animals who housing this competency this this
are sheltered for protection Apply the proper procedures in the competency. only. competency in competency to
and ensure compliance with handling of animals a professional unusual or
all applicable standards. Arrange and prepare animal and setting. unanticipated
containers for transport circumstances.
Protect the animals from disease and
injury
Administer vaccinations and euthanize
sick and dying animals under the
supervision of the Veterinarian
Maintain accurate record keeping in the
documentation of intake and outtake of
animals utilizing the Shelter Buddy
Software.
Pet Assisted Therapy Explore Animal- Human Relationship Does Not Demonstrates Demonstrates Demonstrates
Assisting Evaluate the general physical and Demonstrate knowledge of the ability to the ability to
behavioral health of the animal, e.g., knowledge of this use and apply use and apply

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Provide safe, humane, and animal's age and any preexisting this competency this this
effective care of animals that conditions. competency. only. competency in competency to
assist in therapeutic settings Examine Legislation and Insurance a professional unusual or
and ensure compliance with policies and procedures in compliance setting. unanticipated
all applicable standards. with standards associated with Pet circumstances.
Assisted Therapy
Provide healthy, clean and safe
environment
Evaluate/Assess risks to minimize injuries
and accidents and develop treatment
plans when applicable
Apply/Practice policies, protocols and
quality assurance guidelines and local,
state and federal laws governing the care
of animals
Humane Services Providing a healthy, safe, clean and Does Not Demonstrates Demonstrates Demonstrates
pleasant environment and facilities for Demonstrate knowledge of the ability to the ability to
Conduct and enforce ethical the animals and the public knowledge of this use and apply use and apply
and legal regulation in the Arrange, conduct, and secure rescue this competency this this
care of abused and neglected efforts competency. only. competency in competency to
animals. Confirm, conduct and follow-up on a professional unusual or
reports of abuse and neglect of animals setting. unanticipated
Assist in conducting behavior assessment circumstances.
and health screening necessary in the
processing of the adoption application
Develop strategies to teach and advocate
for humane ethics in the treatment of
animals through community –wide
campaigns, humane education in the
community and school
Provide humane postmortem care and
disposition of euthanized animals
Provide information on the adoption
process and relinquishment of animals

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Program Learning Competencies Assessment Rubric

Program Competencies Assessment Criteria –All criteria must be Criteria Criteria Level Criteria Level Criteria Level
present to demonstrate competence. Level 1 2 3 4
Front Office Procedures Prepare and maintain financial and patient Does Not Demonstrates Demonstrates Demonstrates
records in compliance with office and Demonstrate knowledge of the ability to the ability to
Perform an array of clerical insurance regulations: knowledge this use and apply use and apply
veterinary/office duties Operate computer and specialized of this competency this this
independently or under medical/veterinary software competency. only. competency competency to
supervision in a veterinary Organize and maintain appointment in a unusual or
office schedule and follow-up professional unanticipated
Maintain logs required by law including setting. circumstances.
medication, surgical, anesthesia and
radiography

Veterinary Assisting Evaluate the general physical and Does Not Demonstrates Demonstrates Demonstrates
behavioral health of the animal, e.g., Demonstrate knowledge of the ability to the ability to
Assist a veterinarian in the animal's age and any preexisting conditions. knowledge this use and apply use and apply
performance of veterinary Prepare the examination room, equipment, of this competency this this
examinations and treatments. instrument and other supplies to meet the competency. only. competency competency to
needs of the patient in a unusual or
- Assist in surgical procedures professional unanticipated
Prepare and discuss treatment plans setting. circumstances.
- Obtain animal health histories and create
records
Apply the procedure of CPR/First Aid in the
veterinarian setting
Prepare, administer and/or dispense
pharmacological agents (excluding
anesthetics) to comply with veterinary
prescription as directed by a veterinarian
Veterinary Technician Obtain, record and maintain treatment Does Not Demonstrates Demonstrates Demonstrates
Assisting notes Demonstrate knowledge of the ability to the ability to
Handle and track animal samples knowledge this use and apply use and apply

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Veterinary Assisting Curriculum

Record, Organize, and Handle containers in the of this competency this this
maintain accurate records in a handling/delivering samples competency. only. competency competency to
veterinary practice Provide proper handling and restraint of in a unusual or
animals for collection of samples as professional unanticipated
required by protocol – tagging, taking setting. circumstances.
temperature, swabbing , vaccination and
blood

Perform daily grooming of animals –

exercising.
Animal Health Observer Evaluate the general physical and Does Not Demonstrates Demonstrates Demonstrates
behavioral health of the animal, e.g., Demonstrate knowledge of the ability to the ability to
Observe and evaluate the animal's age and any preexisting conditions. knowledge this use and apply use and apply
behavior and health of animals Identify behaviors animals present upon of this competency this this
presented to a veterinary intake in veterinary office competency. only. competency competency to
practice. Assess Animal physical condition at in a unusual or
presentation professional unanticipated
Chart observations clearly setting. circumstances.
Assess emotional condition at presentation
Evaluate owner’s behavior, physical
condition, emotional condition.
Preventive Care Educator Instruct client on the safety, feeding, Does Not Demonstrates Demonstrates Demonstrates
walking and the maintenance of clean and Demonstrate knowledge of the ability to the ability to
Instruct staff and clients in the sterile facilities knowledge this use and apply use and apply
prevention, early detection, Educate clients about wellness, preventive of this competency this this
and care of animals as directed care, pet health needs, hospital services competency. only. competency competency to
by a veterinarian and other issues. in a unusual or
Examine animals for signs of aging, physical professional unanticipated
changes and nutrition setting. circumstances.
Perform proper grooming techniques –
brushing, ear inspection, dental care,
examination of body and skin and baths
Pet Boarding Caregiver Conduct animal feeding, watering and Does Not Demonstrates Demonstrates Demonstrates
maintaining animal feed schedules Demonstrate knowledge of the ability to the ability to

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Veterinary Assisting Curriculum

Provide safe, hygienic, Animal health care and maintaining knowledge this use and apply use and apply
humane, and effective care for treatment records of this competency this this
animals that are boarded in an Maintain the shelter areas competency. only. competency competency to
animal care facility. Perform Species health checks in a unusual or
Prepare and set up treatment protocols professional unanticipated
setting. circumstances.
Laboratory Animal Caregiver Handle all laboratory animals correctly and Does Not Demonstrates Demonstrates Demonstrates
humanely to avoid injury to the animal Demonstrate knowledge of the ability to the ability to
Provide safe, humane, and Maintain accurate record of data knowledge this use and apply use and apply
effective care of laboratory Provide and maintain clean cages and the of this competency this this
animals for research and animal facility competency. only. competency competency to
ensure compliance with all Prepare food, water and bedding, hygiene in a unusual or
applicable standards. and light medication for laboratory animals professional unanticipated
Written and oral communication setting. circumstances.
Employ Proper and safe handling of
potentially pathogenic materials and the
monitoring of equipment and other
applicable facilities
Companion Animal Caregiver Does Not Demonstrates Demonstrates Demonstrates
Demonstrate knowledge of the ability to the ability to
Assess and evaluate specific Assess Animal Behavior knowledge this use and apply use and apply
animal behavior in the training Understand the Human-Animal Bond of this competency this this
and placement of animals who Provide Training and Supervision of animals competency. only. competency competency to
serve as companion animals. Select Placement of animals in a unusual or
professional unanticipated
setting. circumstances.
Sheltered Animal Caregiver Operate and maintain clean and safe Does Not Demonstrates Demonstrates Demonstrates
environment Demonstrate knowledge of the ability to the ability to
Provide safe, humane, and Match and select animal for group housing knowledge this use and apply use and apply
effective care of animals who Apply the proper procedures in the of this competency this this
are sheltered for protection handling of animals competency. only. competency competency to
and ensure compliance with all Arrange and prepare animal and containers in a unusual or
applicable standards. for transport professional unanticipated
Protect the animals from disease and injury setting. circumstances.

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Veterinary Assisting Curriculum

Administer vaccinations and euthanize sick

and dying animals under the supervision of
the Veterinarian
Maintain accurate record keeping in the
documentation of intake and outtake of
animals utilizing the Shelter Buddy
Software.
Pet Assisted Therapy Assisting Explore Animal- Human Relationship Does Not Demonstrates Demonstrates Demonstrates
Evaluate the general physical and Demonstrate knowledge of the ability to the ability to
Provide safe, humane, and behavioral health of the animal, e.g., knowledge this use and apply use and apply
effective care of animals that animal's age and any preexisting conditions. of this competency this this
assist in therapeutic settings Examine Legislation and Insurance policies competency. only. competency competency to
and ensure compliance with all and procedures in compliance with in a unusual or
applicable standards. standards associated with Pet Assisted professional unanticipated
Therapy setting. circumstances.
Provide healthy, clean and safe
environment
Evaluate/Assess risks to minimize injuries
and accidents and develop treatment plans
when applicable
Apply/Practice policies, protocols and
quality assurance guidelines and local, state
and federal laws governing the care of
animals

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Veterinary Assisting Curriculum

Program Portfolio Assessment Rubric

Program Competencies Assessment Criteria –All criteria must be Criteria Criteria Level Criteria Level Criteria Level
present to demonstrate competence. Level 1 2 3 4
Front Office Procedures Prepare and maintain financial and patient Does Not Demonstrates Demonstrates Demonstrates
records in compliance with office and Demonstrate knowledge of the ability to the ability to
Perform an array of clerical insurance regulations: knowledge this use and apply use and apply
veterinary/office duties Operate computer and specialized of this competency this this
independently or under medical/veterinary software competency. only. competency competency to
supervision in a veterinary Organize and maintain appointment in a unusual or
office schedule and follow-up professional unanticipated
Maintain logs required by law including setting. circumstances.
medication, surgical, anesthesia and
radiography

Veterinary Assisting Evaluate the general physical and Does Not Demonstrates Demonstrates Demonstrates
behavioral health of the animal, e.g., Demonstrate knowledge of the ability to the ability to
Assist a veterinarian in the animal's age and any preexisting conditions. knowledge this use and apply use and apply
performance of veterinary Prepare the examination room, equipment, of this competency this this
examinations and treatments. instrument and other supplies to meet the competency. only. competency competency to
needs of the patient in a unusual or
- Assist in surgical procedures professional unanticipated
Prepare and discuss treatment plans setting. circumstances.
- Obtain animal health histories and create
records
Apply the procedure of CPR/First Aid in the
veterinarian setting
Prepare, administer and/or dispense
pharmacological agents (excluding
anesthetics) to comply with veterinary
prescription as directed by a veterinarian
Veterinary Technician Obtain, record and maintain treatment Does Not Demonstrates Demonstrates Demonstrates
Assisting notes Demonstrate knowledge of the ability to the ability to

25
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Veterinary Assisting Curriculum

Handle and track animal samples knowledge this use and apply use and apply
Record, Organize, and Handle containers in the of this competency this this
maintain accurate records in a handling/delivering samples competency. only. competency competency to
veterinary practice Provide proper handling and restraint of in a unusual or
animals for collection of samples as professional unanticipated
required by protocol – tagging, taking setting. circumstances.
temperature, swabbing , vaccination and
blood

Perform daily grooming of animals –

exercising.
Animal Health Observer Evaluate the general physical and Does Not Demonstrates Demonstrates Demonstrates
behavioral health of the animal, e.g., Demonstrate knowledge of the ability to the ability to
Observe and evaluate the animal's age and any preexisting conditions. knowledge this use and apply use and apply
behavior and health of animals Identify behaviors animals present upon of this competency this this
presented to a veterinary intake in veterinary office competency. only. competency competency to
practice. Assess Animal physical condition at in a unusual or
presentation professional unanticipated
Chart observations clearly setting. circumstances.
Assess emotional condition at presentation
Evaluate owner’s behavior, physical
condition, emotional condition.
Preventive Care Educator Instruct client on the safety, feeding, Does Not Demonstrates Demonstrates Demonstrates
walking and the maintenance of clean and Demonstrate knowledge of the ability to the ability to
Instruct staff and clients in the sterile facilities knowledge this use and apply use and apply
prevention, early detection, Educate clients about wellness, preventive of this competency this this
and care of animals as directed care, pet health needs, hospital services competency. only. competency competency to
by a veterinarian and other issues. in a unusual or
Examine animals for signs of aging, physical professional unanticipated
changes and nutrition setting. circumstances.
Perform proper grooming techniques –
brushing, ear inspection, dental care,
examination of body and skin and baths
Pet Boarding Caregiver Conduct animal feeding, watering and Does Not Demonstrates Demonstrates Demonstrates

26
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Veterinary Assisting Curriculum

maintaining animal feed schedules Demonstrate knowledge of the ability to the ability to
Provide safe, hygienic, Animal health care and maintaining knowledge this use and apply use and apply
humane, and effective care for treatment records of this competency this this
animals that are boarded in an Maintain the shelter areas competency. only. competency competency to
animal care facility. Perform Species health checks in a unusual or
Prepare and set up treatment protocols professional unanticipated
setting. circumstances.
Laboratory Animal Caregiver Handle all laboratory animals correctly and Does Not Demonstrates Demonstrates Demonstrates
humanely to avoid injury to the animal Demonstrate knowledge of the ability to the ability to
Provide safe, humane, and Maintain accurate record of data knowledge this use and apply use and apply
effective care of laboratory Provide and maintain clean cages and the of this competency this this
animals for research and animal facility competency. only. competency competency to
ensure compliance with all Prepare food, water and bedding, hygiene in a unusual or
applicable standards. and light medication for laboratory animals professional unanticipated
Written and oral communication setting. circumstances.
Employ Proper and safe handling of
potentially pathogenic materials and the
monitoring of equipment and other
applicable facilities
Companion Animal Caregiver Does Not Demonstrates Demonstrates Demonstrates
Demonstrate knowledge of the ability to the ability to
Assess and evaluate specific Assess Animal Behavior knowledge this use and apply use and apply
animal behavior in the training Understand the Human-Animal Bond of this competency this this
and placement of animals who Provide Training and Supervision of animals competency. only. competency competency to
serve as companion animals. Select Placement of animals in a unusual or
professional unanticipated
setting. circumstances.
Sheltered Animal Caregiver Operate and maintain clean and safe Does Not Demonstrates Demonstrates Demonstrates
environment Demonstrate knowledge of the ability to the ability to
Provide safe, humane, and Match and select animal for group housing knowledge this use and apply use and apply
effective care of animals who Apply the proper procedures in the of this competency this this
are sheltered for protection handling of animals competency. only. competency competency to
and ensure compliance with all Arrange and prepare animal and containers in a unusual or
applicable standards. for transport professional unanticipated

27
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Veterinary Assisting Curriculum

Protect the animals from disease and injury setting. circumstances.

Administer vaccinations and euthanize sick
and dying animals under the supervision of
the Veterinarian
Maintain accurate record keeping in the
documentation of intake and outtake of
animals utilizing the Shelter Buddy
Software.
Pet Assisted Therapy Assisting Explore Animal- Human Relationship Does Not Demonstrates Demonstrates Demonstrates
Evaluate the general physical and Demonstrate knowledge of the ability to the ability to
Provide safe, humane, and behavioral health of the animal, e.g., knowledge this use and apply use and apply
effective care of animals that animal's age and any preexisting conditions. of this competency this this
assist in therapeutic settings Examine Legislation and Insurance policies competency. only. competency competency to
and ensure compliance with all and procedures in compliance with in a unusual or
applicable standards. standards associated with Pet Assisted professional unanticipated
Therapy setting. circumstances.
Provide healthy, clean and safe
environment
Evaluate/Assess risks to minimize injuries
and accidents and develop treatment plans
when applicable
Apply/Practice policies, protocols and
quality assurance guidelines and local, state
and federal laws governing the care of
animals

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Veterinary Assisting Curriculum

Summative Program Learning Assessment Schedule

Product Evaluation Instrument When Population

Summative Assessed Administered Assessed
(Capstone, Portfolio, Dissertation, Final semester,
Thesis, etc.) Comprehensive
Exam, etc.)

Outcome 1 Summative Rubric Fall Semester 08 Students in Final

Semester, etc.
Outcome 2 Summative Rubric
Outcome 3 Summative Rubric
Outcome 4 Summative Rubric
Outcome 5 Summative Rubric
Outcome 6 Summative Rubric
Outcome 7 Summative Rubric
Outcome 8 Summative Rubric
Outcome 9 Summative Rubric `
Outcome 10 Summative Rubric

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Veterinary Assisting Curriculum
Formative Program Learning Assessment Schedule

Assignment Evaluation Instrument What Course Population

Formative Assessed assessed
(Course Project, Course Exam, etc.) (student-semester,
etc.)

Outcome 1 (Choose one learning objective for Course Learning Objective

each outcome to base the formative Rubric
assessment upon)
Outcome 2 Course Learning Objective
Rubric
Outcome 3 Course Learning Objective
Rubric
Outcome 4 Course Learning Objective
Rubric
Outcome 5 Course Learning Objective
Rubric
Outcome 6 Course Learning Objective
Rubric
Outcome 7 Course Learning Objective
Rubric
Outcome 8 Course Learning Objective
Rubric
Outcome 9 Course Learning Objective
Rubric
Outcome 10 Course Learning Objective
Rubric

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Veterinary Assisting Curriculum
Bibliography

31
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