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Local Students Experience a Day as Veterinarians

In an inspiring initiative to broaden opportunities in the veterinary field, seventy middle school students from Central Florida participated in a hands-on learning event at the North American Veterinary Community (NAVC) 2025's Veterinary Meeting & Expo (VMX). This event, held on January 28, 2025, allows students from underrepresented communities to immerse themselves in various aspects of veterinary medicine, successfully bridging the gap in educational access for aspiring veterinarians.

The Believe Belong Initiative

The collaboration between NAVC and blendVET aims to dismantle barriers and foster diversity within the veterinary profession. As per statistics from the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics, the veterinary field lacks representation, with 90% of veterinarians being white and minorities accounting for a small fraction of the total. The program ‘Believe Belong in Veterinary Medicine’ seeks to change this by providing educational resources and experiences crucial for the next generation.

Hands-On Learning Activities

During the event, students engaged in numerous interactive learning stations, teaming up with seasoned veterinarians and veterinary technicians. They focused on critical skills such as:

• - Suturing Techniques: Students practiced proper suturing on models, learning fine motor skills essential for veterinary surgery.
• - Emergency Responding: In emergency medicine stations, students were taught CPR techniques, how to bandage wounds, and recognize common household hazards for pets.
• - Zoological Medicine: They explored animal husbandry, acquiring knowledge on the needs of exotic animals and proper care practices.
• - Dental Care: Students scaled teeth and reviewed dental radiographs, emphasizing the importance of oral health in animals.

Additionally, returning participants had the distinctive opportunity to delve into specialized fields of veterinary medicine. These included:

• - Ophthalmology: Gaining experience on eye examinations and common ocular issues.
• - Clinical Pathology: Students practiced drawing blood and examining samples under a microscope.
• - Large Animal Medicine: Participants learned about handling and examining horses, a critical skill in diverse veterinary practices.
• - Forensic Veterinary Medicine: Students familiarized themselves with veterinary aspects of law enforcement, identifying bone structures and understanding forensic techniques vital for animal safety.

Empowering Future Veterinarians

The event encapsulates NAVC's commitment to guiding youth from diverse backgrounds. NAVC CEO Gene O'Neill emphasizes the importance of such pathways, stating, *"We're thrilled to offer these opportunities to young students who may never have thought about a career in veterinary medicine."

Dr. Niccole Bruno, founder and CEO of blendVET, shared her excitement about the event, highlighting the growth of returning students and the meaningful impact these experiences can have on their professional journeys.

Industry Support and Future Perspectives

Major organizations sponsored the event, including Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health and Hill's Pet Nutrition, contributing to both the educational resources and mentorship opportunities available. Following the completion of the program, students earn certificates validating their engagement in veterinary education, marking a significant milestone in their professional trajectory.

This initiative not only enriches the lives of students but also actively contributes to the diversification of the veterinary profession. Previous blendVET programs have taken place in diverse locations like New Haven, CT, St. Petersburg, FL, and San Diego, CA, further emphasizing the expansive reach of this crucial initiative.

As students left the conference brimming with knowledge and newfound enthusiasm for veterinary medicine, the collaborative efforts of NAVC and blendVET undoubtedly set a solid foundation for the future of veterinary professionals in America. Through such comprehensive, hands-on experiences, the next generation is inspired to dream bigger and pursue careers that were once out of reach for many.