The experience consists of observing and participating in veterinary diagnostic lab procedures with emphasis on avian species (mainly poultry and wildlife). The procedures include client interviews for histories, blood collection, gross post mortem exams, histopathology and other supporting tests including serology, bacteriology, parasitology, molecular biology. Field trips to sites such as farms, hatcheries, processing plants, off-site meetings may be incorporated as schedules allow.
All equipment, staff, and resource materials appropriate to AAVLD- accredited veterinary diagnositic lab are present on-site.
In general, the student will be expected to be at the laboratory from 8:30 AM to 5 PM Monday through Friday (excluding major holidays), with minor variations if field experiences require. Both shadowing and actual support / participation are expected depending on the task. If the length of stay allows, the student will be expected to present a diagnostic case or topic in which she or he was involved during the rotation.