A strong background in the biological sciences will help you understand and competently explain diagnoses to pet owners. This background in the sciences will also help you comprehend how most animal diseases are treated, so you can confidently assist the veterinarian in treating these clients. Courses in anatomy and physiology, animal biology, zoology and public health will likely be part of your studies as well as an introductory-level biology or chemistry course.
Veterinary nursing skills enable you to develop an excellent bedside manner while using scientifically sound diagnostic practices. You'll take at least one course in veterinary nursing and will also take classes on nursing techniques. At Madison Area Technical College in Wisconsin, for example, students pursuing an associate degree take two courses in surgical nursing and one course in animal nursing. You'll have several classes introducing you to subjects such as radiology, dentistry, nutrition, toxicology and parasitology. These courses will teach you how to work with a variety of pets in specific circumstances. For example, in your animal nursing class, you'll learn how to get quality lab samples.
Veterinary technicians must be able to communicate clearly with owners about their pet’s medications, and they must know which medication side effects to look for. At schools such as Purdue University, future veterinary technicians must take a general chemistry class, while Madison Area Technical College requires three chemistry courses: life science chemistry; college chemistry; and general, organic and biological chemistry. Your chemistry classes can help you understand how medication works, and at most schools -- including Purdue University, McLennan Community College and Madison Area Technical College -- you'll also need at least one class in pharmacology.
A veterinary practice is a business, and it's not enough just to provide good medical care. Many veterinary technicians have to field phone calls from pet owners and offer advice or refer the owner to the right veterinarian. You may also be charged with billing tasks such as helping customers understand their bills. Some clinics may require you to take classes to learn these basic skills. At Madison Area Technical College, students take two courses in veterinary office procedures, while at Purdue University, students take two courses in management.