
PV-TEC’s Veterinary Assistant program offers students a
Comprehensive, Hands-on Education
in animal care, clinical procedures, and veterinary science. Through six carefully sequenced courses—Introduction to Livestock, Equine Science, Small Animals A (Domestic), Small Animals B (Exotic), Large Animal Care, and Veterinary Science—students gain direct experience working with livestock, horses, companion animals, and exotics. The program culminates with the Certified Veterinary Assistant Exam through American Allied Health, enabling program completers to become certified and job-ready while meeting Idaho's career preparation of the
Highest Standards for Animal Science

Animal Science Vet Tech Instructor
Inside Look
Agricultural Animal Science: Veterinary Technician is located at PV-TEC
Courses are open to all Pocatello Chubbuck School District 25 students.
Courses are offered based on demand, teacher availability and certification.
These courses may not be NCAA Eligibility Center approved. See high school counselor for clarification.
Agricultural Animal Science: Veterinary Assistant Pathway
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Animal Science Veterinary Assisting Courses
40083 Introduction to Livestock Industry (Animal Science) - 1 Trimester - PV-TEC 10 11 12
Co-requisite: Zoology: Equine Science
This course includes principles of evaluation and selection of beef, swine, sheep, goats, and dairy animals. Anatomy, breeds, nutrition, behavior, restraining/handling, and common illnesses of livestock are covered as well. On the Veterinary side terminology, abbreviations, clinic office management, hospital procedures, client relations, entering clients into veterinary software, and keyboarding skills are covered. This course is available for science credit. State code 181010 - STEM course
40212 Zoology: Equine Science - 1 Trimester – PV-TEC 10 11 12
Co-requisite: Introduction to Livestock Industry
This course is designed to provide science and practical management instruction in the care of horses. The applied science curriculum component has a focus on physiology, anatomy, nutrition, genetics, health, and reproduction. This course is available for science credit. State code 181040 - STEM course
40087 Zoology: Small Animal Care A - 1 Trimester – 2-hour block PV-TEC 10 11 12
40088 Zoology: Small Animal Care B
Prerequisite: Zoology: Intro to Livestock Industry and Zoology: Equine Science
This course is open to students interested in pursuing a career in the field of veterinary medicine. Students will learn proper medication procedures, restraining/handling techniques, documentation standards, signs and symptoms/treatments for illnesses, animal breeds, anatomy, behavior, foods and nutrition needs for the care of small animals. These courses will also teach veterinary laboratory, examination, and grooming, pharmacy, and radiology procedures as well as learning about making appointments, and medical records. Certified Pet Care Technician and a Red Cross Pet First Aide Certification will be offered. This course is available for science credit. State code 181020 - STEM course
40216 Zoology: Large Animal Care – 1 Trimester – PV-TEC 11 12
Prerequisite: Zoology: Small Animal Care A & B
Co-requisite: Veterinary Science
Large animal care students learn about beef/dairy cattle, horses, sheep, goats, and pigs - identifying breeds, anatomy, nutrition, behavior, production, and basic veterinary care. This course will focus on the need and use of these animals in today’s society. Modern technology will be used to learn about radiology/imaging procedures and lab procedures. Students will use a software program designed for veterinary clinics to control inventory, price changes, adding estimates, and scheduling reminders. This course is available for science credit. State code 181050 - STEM course
40089 * Veterinary Science - 1 Trimester – PV-TEC 11 12
Prerequisite: Zoology: Small Animal Care A/B
Co-requisite: Zoology: Large Animal Care
Zoology/Veterinary Science is designed to impart information about the causes, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases and injuries in animals, emphasizing both large and small animals. Veterinary ethics and legal issues in the veterinary industry as well as surgical assisting procedures are included in this course. Upon completion of this course the student will be eligible to take the Certified Veterinary Assistant Exam (CVA). Business management and interpersonal skills required for a successful veterinary practice will also be emphasized. This course is available for science credit. State CTE code 181018 - STEM course
40014 Introduction to Agricultural Education - 1 Trimester - PV-TEC 9 10
In Agriculture education you will be introduced to plant, animal, and food science. You will also learn a variety of skills including communications, leadership, management, and technology. You will learn about FFA. If you are a 4H member - this class is for you. Intro to AG Education will count as a speech credit. State CTE code 180010
