Jun 20, 2012

Course Title: Become a Veterinary Assistant II: Canine Reproduction

School: At a college near you (click "Enroll Now" to see location). [Learn More]
Hours required: 24  
Price: $99  
Length course offered: 6 Weeks   
Instructor: Jeff Grognet [Bio]

Description:

If you're a veterinary assistant or preparing to become one, this course will help you understand the essential facts so you can knowledgeably converse with clients on the complexities of canine reproduction. Candidates for a breeding program need to be assessed not only for conformation, but also for health. They need a thorough reproductive examination and they should be screened for hereditary conditions such as hip dysplasia and eye diseases. Once selected, individual dogs are prepared for breeding with the help of proper nutrition, good parasite control, and appropriate vaccination programs.

By studying the hormonal cycle of the female dog in depth, the optimal time for breeding, for both natural mating and artificial insemination, can be identified. When a female fails to conceive, it is important to understand the potential causes. She may be suffering from infertility, but so may the male dog. You'll find out why.

Once the female has been confirmed pregnant, her needs must be met and preparations made for whelping (by knowing what is normal, when to intercede, and when to seek professional help). Postpartum complications in the female must be considered and close attention given to the needs of the puppies to ensure they reach weaning time in good health.

Goals:

You will know every essential facet of dog breeding, including assessing the health of candidates, common reproductive problems, determining pregnancy, finding out why a pregnancy fails, postpartum complications, caring for puppies, and more.

Grading System:

Confirmation of Completion awarded with passing score.

School Description:

No matter where you live, you will be able to take any of our comprehensive, convenient online courses offered in connection with a college or university near you. Click "Enroll Now" to find the partner school for the course you want to take.

Instructor Bio: Jeff Grognet

Jeff Grognet has been a companion animal veterinarian for 25 years. He was a pioneer in the field of veterinary assistant teaching, developing his first course almost 20 years ago. The overwhelming success of his veterinary receptionist/assistant college courses led him to expand his teaching into other areas in high demand, including pet first aid, and alternative medical therapies for companion animals.

He practices with his wife at a Veterinary Hospital in BC, Canada. Jeff has published a large and diverse number of articles over the last 20 years. He is a regular contributing author to several magazines as well as a weekly newspaper columnist.