Course Description
Parasitic helminths, protozoa, and arthropods are studied on the basis of taxonomy, morphology, life cycle, and pathological manifestations. A brief comprehensive overview of parasite diagnosis, treatment, and control is also provided.
Additional Requirements for Graduate Students:
Graduate students will be required to perform a literature
search and critically review 1-2 primary research articles on
a parasite topic relevant to each of the 4 sections covered in
the class (protozoa, small animal helminths, large animal
helminths, mites/ticks/flies), to be due at the time of the
exam for that section. In addition, the student will also be
required to write a research paper on a parasite of their
choice (upon approval of the course coordinator), due before
the end of the course.
Athena Title
Veterinary Parasitology
Non-Traditional Format
Course taught as part of a sequential curriculum which does not follow the traditional format. Number of labs and lectures vary from week to week.
Prerequisite
Permission of department
Semester Course Offered
Offered fall
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Course Objectives
1. Explain the life cycle of selected small animal parasites as it relates to the intervention (including treatment), prevention, and pathology of parasitic diseases. 2. Describe antiparasitics commonly used in small animal veterinary medicine, with emphasis on specific indications and selection. 3. Describe the epidemiology and control of parasites. 4. Describe and demonstrate the different techniques used to diagnose parasites, both antemortem and postmortem. 5. Develop the necessary skills (including literature searches) to find information independently on parasitic drugs and treatment regimens and develop knowledge of reliable references on small animal parasitic diseases. 6. Begin to develop an understanding of the parasiticide marketing practice and its role in the consumer decision making process, specifically the small animal parasite prevention market. 7. Teach students to appreciate different treatment regimens with respect to different cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds. 8. Demonstrate an understanding of zoonotic parasites and the role of the veterinarian in educating the public and physicians about zoonotic parasites (One Health). 9. Be able to effectively communicate to clients in easy to understand language about treatment and preventive recommendations.
Topical Outline
egg identification fecal identification heartworm/flea/tick prevention heartworm treatment communications inventory gastrointestinal/respiratory/ecto caval syndrome systemic protozoa