Student will get first hand experience in the art of working in and running a solo small animal veterinary hospital. Given the volumes of academic material necessary to properly educate a veterinary student, there are aspects of the profession that receive little to no attention.This is essential information that one must know in order to run a successful business as well as being a successful practitioner. Experience will focus primarily on the solo practitioner and the unique challenges that are faced on a daily basis. Student will learn to cope with an extremely limited staff and space and how to deal with emergency situations and sudden changes to schedules while trying to practice a high level of quality care. Emphasis will be placed on the importance of when to properly refer cases as well as successfully practicing without the benefit of a fellow colleague.Student will also experience the business aspects of the profession, including inventory, cost of materials, pricing goods and services, salaries, expenses, building maintenance, safety, and employee issues.
Standard animal hospital diagnostic equipment including digital radiography, lab equipment, anesthetic equipment, monitors,etc.
Student will be present for the entire workday and workweek (approximately 40 hours). Student will shadow the practitioner for the entire day and assist in anyway possible. This will include radiographs, labwork (urinalysis, fecal exams, heartworm tests, etc.) and animal restraint. Focus will be placed on the use of proper animal handling techniques with a limited staff as well as the use of sedatives when necessary. All cases will be discussed; ranging from routine exams and problems to serious complex ones. Student will also be taught the proper techniques in dealing with a range of client personalities, expectations, and personalities. Euthanasia counseling will also be stressed.