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Tuition: $132 ($119 early bird special if enrolled by July 8, 2024) * Students currently enrolled in an AVMA accredited or CVMA approved Veterinary Technician Program may be eligible to receive a 50% discount off the regular rate for this course (upon verification of student status). Prices are listed in US dollars.

Course Information:
This course will introduce veterinary medical personnel to basic and advanced anesthesia techniques used in common pet reptile species such as snakes, turtles, tortoises, and lizards. Basic anatomy and physiology, special anesthetic equipment, drug protocol selection, monitoring techniques, intravenous and intraosseous catheterization, and intubation techniques will be emphasized.

• Illustrate a better understanding of basic reptile anatomy and physiology
• Discuss common anesthetic drugs used in these unique species
• Design drug protocols in cooperation with the veterinarian based on the unique individual needs of the patient
• Deliver and monitor inhalant anesthesia via mask and endotracheal tube
• Operate and utilize multi-parameter monitoring equipment
• Discuss information regarding blood pressure monitoring, ECG monitoring, ETCO2, and spirometry readings
• Analyze case-based discussions regarding monitoring these species under anesthesia
• Discuss performing a proper physical examination on turtles, lizards, and snakes
• Examine venipuncture sites and techniques in these species
• Examine blood sampling procedures
• Demonstrate placement of intravenous and intraosseous catheters in a variety of sites
• Describe the technique of intubating various reptilian species and apply the technique with confidence
• Calculate and deliver analgesic drugs and maintenance fluids

RACE Accreditation: This program has been submitted (but is not yet approved) for 6 hours of continuing education credit in jurisdictions which recognize RACE approval.

Week 2 (Real Time Session August 5): Equipment Selection for Anesthesia Delivery and Monitoring
This week we will discuss monitoring equipment and parameters. Then, have a case-based discussion regarding monitoring under anesthesia.

Week 3 (Real Time Session August 12): Physical Examination and Venipuncture Techniques
We will discuss how to perform a physical exam, optimal venipuncture sites, and collection techniques.

Week 4 (Real Time Session August 19): In-depth Discussion on IV and IO Catheterization, Fluid Therapy, Intubation, and Post-operative Recovery and Nursing Care
This week will cover the intubation of various reptilian species, the placement of intravenous and intraosseous catheters, as well as calculating analgesic drugs and maintenance fluids.

Successful completion (scoring 80% or better) on the end-of-course test is required to earn a certificate of completion for the course. To learn more about the requirements for earning a CE certificate, please refer to Receiving Your CE Credit and Course Completion Certificate.

1. Enrollment qualifications: VIN CE courses are open to VIN member and non-member veterinarians. Veterinarians enrolling in a VSPN CE course must be a VIN member. Veterinary support staff must be a VSPN member to enroll in a VSPN CE or a VIN CE course open to VSPN member enrollment.
2. Each enrollee must be able to receive emails from @vspn.org and @vin.com addresses. Email is our major form of communication with participants; personal emails are highly recommended rather than clinic/hospital email addresses.
3. For further assistance call 800-846-0028 ext.792 or email VSPNCE. Please include the course title, your full name, and contact information in your correspondence.