High school students traded their books for stethoscopes as part of a new program through the National Western. Vet 101 was created to give high school students an opportunity to gain real-world experience while attending the show.
Students had the chance to complete four different rotations, all focusing on different aspects of the livestock industry: small animal, large animal, equine, and rodeo stock. During each rotation students talked with professionals about some of the challenges each industry faces as well as common problems they face on a day to day basis.
“We are trying to encourage these kids to become veterinarians,” said Dr. Lori Scott, National Western veterinarian. “We are trying to promote the fact that its important and that we need livestock veterinarians.”
Scott led the small animal demonstration where students interacted with dogs, chickens, and goats. Each student had the chance to handle the animal while taking their pulse. They also got to hear some of the stories from Scott’s 30 years working as a veterinarian with the National Western.
“I hope they walk away with understanding what a veterinarian truly does,” Scott said. “I hope they see the different aspects of what we do in real life and understand the importance of animal medicine. “
Students also interacted with equine and cattle, having the opportunity to take a pulse on each animal. Veterinarians also showed students vital signs to check in each species and some of the warning signs for larger issues.
Attendees focused on all aspects of livestock medicine, including rodeo stock. While in the colesium, attendes got to talk with a rodeo veterinary on how she strives to keep these athletes healthy while being on the road.
“I liked learning about the rodeo industry because I have not been around that type of livestock very often,” said Mavrick Jones, a senior from Old Central High School. “I find athlete type animals very interesting.”
Jones hopes to become an animal veterinarian in the future and return back to a rural community to practice animal medicine.
“I like animals and I like to see them healthy and help them,” Jones said. “I think that is something that would keep me in a rural community, whether that is one I have now, or one I have in the future. It’s a good opportunity to do something that I love.”
Please enjoy these candids taken at Vet 101!
