Behavior problems continue to be the leading cause of death for our pets; the ability to recognize, diagnose and treat basic behavior problems is critical for all veterinarians in general practice. The goal of this externship is both to provide fundamental skills necessary for basic implementation in a general practice and cultivate the skills of those students with experience, knowledge and ambition for more challenging behavior problems.
Institutional Resources: Theresa DePorter, DVM, MRCVS, DACVB, DECAWBM
Ashley Elzerman, DVM, Ceva Behavior Resident
Educational Resources: Library of Behavior Books as well as articles and other relevant readings
Attendance at OVRS behavior training seminars both in and out of the hospital will be required if they occur during your externship
• Extern should be responsible and self motivating as some tasks will be done without immediate supervision
• Review of patient records and submitted materials prior to each consultation is the responsibility of the Extern.
• Reading assignments will be required and may be tested
• Training assignments will be given but will vary depending on the skills and interest of the applicant. May involve a cat, dog or fish as a patient. May involve OVRS staff members' personal pets and training must be coordinated with their schedules and desires for their pets.
• Extern to write a handout or develop a video suitable for client education. Extern should select a behavior topic and prepare a practical and informative handout/video for client education.
• Coordinate and assist other departments that have a case with behavioral needs.
• Assist doctor and technician in all aspects of patient care which may include cleaning the behavior room and copying/clerical preparation of materials for handouts and records.
Most use hotels nearby. Occasionally staff members let a student stay with them: cost, pets, and other details to be arranged.