Online Canine Nutrition Degree Program Information

There are no stand-alone degree programs in canine nutrition, but associate's degree programs for veterinary technicians cover nutrition for dogs in addition to a wide range of other animal care topics. Hybrid programs are available that blend online classes with in-person labs and work experience.

Overview of an Online Veterinary Technician Associate's Degree Program

Canine nutrition is part of a veterinary technician training program. Students also study related sciences such as biology, chemistry and pathology. These online associate's degree programs generally require a clinical mentorship or internship. This is necessary to meet state licensure requirements, and most employers of veterinary technician's prefer to hire graduates of an accredited associate's degree program including both didactic and clinical laboratory coursework. Prerequisites may include work in an animal care settting and high school coursework in science and math. Graduates are awarded an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree.

Program Information and Requirements

These programs generally take two to three years to complete, and some schools require completion within four years. Students complete some of the courses entirely online, while others (especially labs or practicums) require in-person attendance. Some students work in veterinary hospitals or other animal care settings to fulfill internship requirements.
All students must have access to the Internet to participate. Online classes are accessed via a personal computer, and some schools require Windows applications. Library resources are also typically available online. Specific hardware, memory, performance and software requirements vary by school.

List of Common Online Courses

Online courses in veterinary technician programs cover the nutrition requirements for a variety of animals, including dogs, along with courses in microbiology, pathology, pharmacology, anatomy and physiology. Some common classes are outlined below.

Anatomy of Animals Course

This class covers the study of all major body systems in domestic animals and their similarities and differences. Students learn about organ systems, skeletons and musculature.

Physiology of Animals Course

Students study the physiological processes, systems and diseases in domestic animals. Topics emphasized include metabolism of cells, tissues, blood, reflexes and senses, as well as the nervous, muscular, cardiovascular, skeletal, digestive and respiratory systems.

Animal Diseases Course

Animal diseases are explored in this class along with signs, prevention, diagnosis and treatment options. The course also covers healing processes, vaccinations and immunological responses. Canine, equine, porcine, ovine and bovine diseases are some types included in the curriculum.

Career Information for Graduates

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), opportunities for veterinary technicians will grow by 36 percent between 2008 and 2018 due to increased demand for complex veterinary care from pet owners. The BLS reported that the median hourly wage for veterinary technologists and technicians was $14.08 in May of 2009 (www.bls.gov).

Continuing Education Information

Further education in canine nutrition and veterinary medicine is available through bachelor's and master's degree programs in veterinary medicine or animal science. Students who wish to practice as full-fledged veterinarians can pursue a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree. These programs are rarely available online.