“Vet for a Day”: DC-area students will learn about veterinary medicine from experts at ‘Critter Fixers,’ American Veterinary Medical Association, Hill’s Pet Nutrition and NVA General Practice
Dozens of Washington-area middle- and high-school students will get the chance to learn about the exciting world of veterinary medicine during “Vet for a Day” July 21 at the American Veterinary Medical Association’s Annual Convention, held this year in Washington, DC.
In partnership with National Geographic’s “Critter Fixers” program, the half-day workshop will give up to 50 students a close-up perspective on the practice of veterinary medicine. Volunteer veterinarians and veterinary technicians will pair with students to teach animal-handling techniques.
Dr. Sandra Faeh, 2024-2025 AVMA President
“The ‘Vet for a Day’ event is a highlight of our annual Convention,” said Dr. Sandra Faeh, AVMA president. “Our volunteers and staff love teaming up with Dr. Vernard Hodges, Dr. Terrence Ferguson and all the great people at ‘Critter Fixers’ to help teach the students about our amazing profession. As always, we are very grateful to our sponsors, Hill’s Pet Nutrition and NVA General Practice, for supporting this wonderful event.”
“We’re proud to support ‘Vet For a Day’ because it’s a fantastic opportunity to inspire the next generation of students and give them an inside look into the veterinary profession,” said Dr. Chelsie Estey, US Chief Veterinary at Hill’s Pet Nutrition. “It’s more than just an event; it’s an investment in the future of veterinary medicine. By giving students hands-on exposure, we’re sparking a lifelong passion and paving the way for the next generation of dedicated animal health professionals.”
“At NVA General Practice, we’re passionate about inspiring the next generation of veterinary professionals,” said Dr. Beth Neuman, Head of Mentorship at NVA General Practice. “Events like ‘Vet for a Day’ provide students with hands-on learning opportunities working alongside real veterinarians and veterinary technicians, giving them a glimpse into our profession and helping them discover the rewarding career opportunities in veterinary medicine.”
This event will be held at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, site of this year’s AVMA Convention, on Monday, July 21, from 10am-2pm, in Salons G and H on Level 1. The event will includes a question-and-answer session with Drs. Ferguson and Hodges and the students from 11:10am-12:20pm. From about 12:30-1:45pm, the volunteer veterinarians and veterinary technicians will offer the students hands-on demonstrations of suturing, ultrasounds and CPR on molds and other simulated equipment (please note that no actual animals are involved in the Vet for a Day event).
Serving more than 108,000 member veterinarians, the AVMA is the nation’s leading representative of the veterinary profession, dedicated to improving the health and wellbeing of animals, humans and the environment. Founded in 1863 and with members in every U.S. state and territory and more than 60 countries, the AVMA is one of the largest veterinary medical organizations in the world. Informed by our members’ unique scientific training and clinical knowledge, the AVMA supports the crucial work of veterinarians and advocates for policies that advance the practice of veterinary medicine and improve animal and human health.
About the “Critter Fixers”
The Critter Fixers believe that if children are introduced to the veterinary profession early on, they will be more likely to pursue that career path. Dr. Ferguson and Dr. Hodges created ‘Vet for a Day’ to give future veterinarians an immersive look into the world of veterinary medicine. The ‘Vet for a Day’ program packs a ton of pertinent information into a fun-filled, informative day.
About Hill’s Pet Nutrition
Founded more than 75 years ago with an unwavering commitment to science-led pet nutrition, Hill’s Pet Nutrition is on a mission to help enrich and lengthen the special relationships between people and their pets. Hill’s is dedicated to pioneering research for dogs and cats using a scientific understanding of their specific needs. As a leading veterinarian recommended pet food brand, knowledge is our first ingredient with nearly 200 veterinarians, PhD nutritionists and food scientists working to develop breakthrough innovations in pet health. Hill’s Prescription Diet therapeutic nutrition plus our everyday wellness product line, Hill’s Science Diet, are sold at vet clinics and pet specialty retailers worldwide. For more information about our products and nutritional philosophy, visit HillsPet.com. Veterinary professionals can visit HillsVet.com for more information.
About NVA General Practice
NVA General Practice is on a mission to give every pet their best life. Their network of neighborhood veterinary clinics partners with pet parents to deliver high-quality medicine and individualized care to ensure the health and happiness of each patient. Founded nearly 30 years ago, they are a leading pet care provider with nearly 1,000 hospitals across the United States and Canada. Their dedicated team of over 25,000 members, including 5,000 veterinarians, cares for millions of animals annually through best-in-class medicine, products, and health services. Together, as one team, they’re shaping the future of general practice medicine. Visit gp.nva.com for more information. NVA General Practice is part of National Veterinary Associates, a community of general practice veterinary hospitals, specialty and emergency hospitals, equine hospitals, and pet resorts.
Source: AVMA news release