Nurturing an Interest in Veterinary Medicine One Kid at a Time

Whether they're viewing ear mites under a microscope or observing actual surgeries, children who participate in the So You Wanna Be a Vet program at Hunt Valley Animal Hospital in Hunt Valley, Maryland, get an in-depth look at veterinary medicine as a career.

And their $35 registration fee helps animals enjoy longer, healthier lives because the clinic donates it to Morris Animal Foundation.

"Kids learn that veterinary medicine is more than just cute puppies and kittens," says Rebecca Stillwell, certified veterinary technician, who organized the summer program that runs for two hours on Fridays and Saturdays. "They see how hard you have to work to get answers and solve problems. They also get a sense of how rewarding it is when you solve problems."

The hospital started offering the program the summer of 2008 to kids age 10 to 18, and so far, about 120 kids have participated.

"It's been a huge success," Stillwell says. "Dr. Allan Frank and I have always enjoyed it when children come into the exam room with their pets. We take the time to answer their questions and show them things that might surprise them."

The hands-on program includes case studies so participants can see how veterinarians conduct exams and provide diagnoses and treatment. Stillwell hand selects the cases to provide visual cues so children understand the medical issues involved. For example, in one of the case studies a cat has urinary stones and a missing toe.

"The kids can look at the urinalysis and see crystals and blood. They can look at an X-ray and see stones. I also have real urinary stones that they can touch," she explains. "Of course, with the issue of the missing toe, they can see that the toe is missing on exam and again confirm it on X-ray."

After reviewing this case, camp participants梚n communication with Dr. Frank梔ecide what diagnostics are needed for more answers. In addition to a urinalysis, X-rays are taken and show that the patient has bladder stones and needs surgery. Before surgery, veterinarians walk the kids through the process.

"We collect blood, perform an ECG and show how we place an IV catheter. Next, we go into the surgery room, where children do a mock laparoscopic surgery on a stuffed bear named Clarence, who is filled with miniature miscellaneous items that kids have to pull out.

In addition to the practical medical aspects, kids learn about the importance of research梐nd why the clinic supports Morris Animal Foundation through its participation in the Foundation's Veterinary Memorial Card program and additional donations.

"In this ever changing industry, we recognize that research is the path to advancements," says Stillwell. "We get to experience that firsthand with new medication and new procedures. We also commend the Foundation for the vast amount of support that it gives to veterinary students."

MAF is committed to helping interested students explore veterinary careers and provides grants for them to work on research projects. Providing support to future generations of veterinarians is the overarching goal of the So You Wanna Be a Vet program as well.

"I think 10 is a good age to start exploring your interest," says Stillwell. "I feel certain that some of the kids will pursue a career in veterinary medicine."

Learn more about the Foundation's Veterinary Student Scholars Program.