Foundations of Veterinary Pharmacology

Veterinary pharmacology underlies safe and effective drug therapy across species. Sound practice rests on understanding pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and the principles of therapeutic decision making. This foundational course provides that base. By the end of this course you will be able to describe principles of pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, recognize species-specific considerations in drug response, identify the principles of therapeutic decision making, and understand the regulatory framework for veterinary drugs. What you will learn: - Principles of pharmacokinetics including absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion - Principles of pharmacodynamics including drug-receptor interactions - Species-specific differences in drug response including breeds with known sensitivities - Principles of common drug categories including antimicrobials, analgesics, and anti-inflammatories - Principles of toxicology including common poisonings seen in clinical practice - The regulatory framework for veterinary drugs including extra-label use rules - Documentation and prescribing considerations including informed consent The course uses readings, drug category summaries, case examples, and reflection questions. Each module ends with applied exercises. This course is written for veterinarians, veterinary technicians, and students strengthening pharmacology understanding. It does not replace supervised training or jurisdiction-specific licensure and prescribing requirements. By the end you will have a structured foundation in veterinary pharmacology principles.