VET226: Small and Large Animal Medicine Research Project 1
VET226: Small and Large Animal Medicine Research Project
Jalyn Skelly
57209850
2025 July 7
, VET226: Small and Large Animal Medicine Research Project 2
Introduction
Veterinary technicians are essential members of the veterinary healthcare team, playing a
vital role in animal care and disease prevention. Although they are not licensed to diagnose
diseases, their training enables them to recognize clinical signs, assist with diagnostic
procedures, provide nursing care, and communicate concerns to veterinarians promptly. They
serve as a crucial link between animals, pet owners, and the veterinary medical team. This
research paper explores ten diseases affecting a variety of species, organized by type: infectious,
parasitic, neoplastic, metabolic, degenerative, and immune-mediated. Each disease is examined
in terms of its causative agent, species affected, clinical signs, diagnostic methods, treatment
options, prevention strategies, zoonotic potential, vaccine availability, and prognosis. This
comprehensive understanding helps veterinary technicians support veterinarians in delivering
quality care and promoting animal wellness.
Canine Parvovirus (Infectious – Canine)
Canine parvovirus (CPV) is a highly contagious viral disease that primarily affects
puppies but can also impact under-vaccinated or immunocompromised adult dogs. The virus
targets rapidly dividing cells, especially those in the gastrointestinal tract, bone marrow, and
sometimes the myocardium. Transmission occurs through direct or indirect contact with infected
feces, often in places where dogs congregate, such as shelters and kennels (Merck Manual,
2025).
VET226: Small and Large Animal Medicine Research Project
Jalyn Skelly
57209850
2025 July 7
, VET226: Small and Large Animal Medicine Research Project 2
Introduction
Veterinary technicians are essential members of the veterinary healthcare team, playing a
vital role in animal care and disease prevention. Although they are not licensed to diagnose
diseases, their training enables them to recognize clinical signs, assist with diagnostic
procedures, provide nursing care, and communicate concerns to veterinarians promptly. They
serve as a crucial link between animals, pet owners, and the veterinary medical team. This
research paper explores ten diseases affecting a variety of species, organized by type: infectious,
parasitic, neoplastic, metabolic, degenerative, and immune-mediated. Each disease is examined
in terms of its causative agent, species affected, clinical signs, diagnostic methods, treatment
options, prevention strategies, zoonotic potential, vaccine availability, and prognosis. This
comprehensive understanding helps veterinary technicians support veterinarians in delivering
quality care and promoting animal wellness.
Canine Parvovirus (Infectious – Canine)
Canine parvovirus (CPV) is a highly contagious viral disease that primarily affects
puppies but can also impact under-vaccinated or immunocompromised adult dogs. The virus
targets rapidly dividing cells, especially those in the gastrointestinal tract, bone marrow, and
sometimes the myocardium. Transmission occurs through direct or indirect contact with infected
feces, often in places where dogs congregate, such as shelters and kennels (Merck Manual,
2025).
