In an effort to reach out to future generations of veterinarians and offer them the chance to experience real-life veterinary medicine, Pfizer Animal Health announced a $50,000 contribution to Purdue University’s Senior Boiler Vet Camps. Forty high school students with an interest in veterinary medicine participated in a week-long, interactive educational program in June at one of the country’s most respected Colleges of Veterinary Medicine to discover more about the profession.
“Effective recruiting, ongoing training and education are crucial for the future of the veterinary profession,” said Michael McFarland, DVM, Diplomate ABVP, group director of Veterinary Medical Services & Corporate Citizenship for Pfizer Animal Health. “That’s why it is so important for Pfizer to support this year’s camp and to inspire young students to learn more about animal health and veterinary medicine.”
The donation is a component of Pfizer Animal Health’s Commitment to Veterinarians platform, which offers support through training and education, research and development, investing in the future of the veterinary profession, and philanthropy.
The Senior Boiler Vet Camp welcomes rising 10th, 11th, and 12th grade students and focuses on the overall wellness care of dogs, especially those who have come from humane societies.
Campers will learn what it takes to care for and work with dogs as they go from new admits in a humane society to adoption-ready dogs. There are hands-on sessions for behavior, wellness, clinical pathology, parasitology, anesthesia, operating room protocols and emergency and critical care. In addition, these campers will get to shadow in a teaching hospital.
“Boiler Vet Camp gives students who are interested in becoming veterinarians or veterinary technicians the chance to live out their dreams,” said Dr. Jim Weisman, director of student services at Purdue University. “It’s a terrific preview into the real and vast field of veterinary medicine.” PD
—From Pfizer Animal Health news release
