Veterinary Science

Course Info

•Veterinary Science Level I - Course #8088 •Veterinary Science Level II - Course #8089

Course Description

Level I Course Description

Students learn animal science and the care of animals, including the fundamentals of companion animal species and breeds, behavior and training, body systems, nutrition, and safety. Students develop basic skills and techniques for assisting the veterinarian/technician in the following areas: handling companion animals and other small mammals, grooming animals, restraint techniques, feeding small mammals, and maintaining equipment and facilities. 

Level II Course Description

Students expand their knowledge of body systems and nutrition animal science and the care of animals, including animal structure and function, microbes and disease prevention, parasitology, and genetics and breeding. Students develop more advanced skills and techniques for assisting the veterinarian/technician in the following areas: handling large animals and exotic animals, applying aseptic techniques, performing first aid, performing technical functions, administering medication, handling death and dying, working with wildlife, and performing office functions.  

Class Features

  • 6 Grooming Stations
  • 4 Large Dog Tubs
  • Multiple Aquaria and Habitats for Classroom Animals
  • Multiple Dog Crates/Cages

Professional Certification Opportunities

  • Virginia Workplace Readiness Skills

Potential Career Opportunities

  • Animal Care Specialist
  • Veterinary Assistant
  • Veterinary Technician
  • Veterinarian
  • Pet Store Manager/Owner
  • Pet Service Industry
  • Groomer
  • Breeder
  • Animal Trainer
  • Zoologist

Mentor Firms

  • Fairfax County Animal Control
  • Fairfax County Animal Shelter

Features

Karen Nestlerode

Karen Nestlerode became the Veterinary Science ( formerly Animal Science) instructor in 2002 at the Academy. She is a graduate of Edison High School, received her Bachelor's degree in Biology from Mary Washington College and her Masters of Education in Special Education from the University of Virginia. Prior to teaching Veterinary Science in the Academy, Karen taught Biology as part of the Edison HS Science department from 1999. She is a licensed veterinary technician who currently works in an emergency veterinary hospital part-time.

Veterinary Science Grooming Services

September 26, 2019
Animal Grooming
The Edison Academy Veterinary Science program offers grooming services for dogs and cats at reasonable prices on most Wednesdays and Thursdays during the school year. Services include dog/cat bathing, nail trims, ear cleaning and clipping (haircuts) or trims. Costs start as low as $10 but will vary depending on the size of your pet and the services you request. For more information please email kenestlerode@fcps.edu or call 703-924-8110 to inquire or to make an appointment for your dog or cat.
Space is limited. Requirements for your pet to receive services: A Current Rabies Vaccine Certificate from your veterinarian is required. (This is the same certificate what you send to your county to get or renew your dog license.) A rabies tag or county license is not acceptable as proof of a current vaccine. Only current up-to-date certificates from your Veterinarian are accepted. We must keep a copy of this certificate in our files.

SkillsUSA Student Organization

September 26, 2019
SkillsUSA is a Career and Technical Education Student Organization for students who are enrolled in Automotive Collision Services, Automotive Technology, Cosmetology, Criminal Justice, Culinary Arts, HVAC & Refrigeration, Electrical Construction and Engineering, and Veterinary Science. Students may engage in leadership and professional development activities, community service projects, and skills and leadership competitions at the local, district, state and national level. Membership dues are required for official membership and participation in district, state and national conferences and events.