This course is designed to introduce students to the field of laboratory animal medicine and provide a strong foundation in the discipline. Using a mix of didactic and hands-on training methods, students will gain proficiency in the veterinary care of lab animals, and apply their skills and knowledge gained in all previous courses in their veterinary curriculum. Discussions will be challenging and require independent thought and application of concepts to real-world situations. Students will be well-prepared for additional training in laboratory animal medicine as would occur though residency.
The rotation or externship through Research Animal Resources at the University of Minnesota is taught by a variety of clinical veterinarians, including current lab animal medicine residents as well as faculty. RAR currently has 4 clinical veterinarians who are Diplomates of the American College of Laboratory Animal Medicine as well as 2 clinical veterinarians who are boards-eligible. We have 12 research veterinary technicians as support staff. We have a mobile X-ray unit and portable ultrasound for diagnostics.
Typically, students will be involved with shadowing and participating in clinical cases, the didactic residency training seminars, and any other relevant activities that may arise during their time including annual physical exams, anesthesia support, animal training sessions, or TB testing in the nonhuman primate colony. Hours are typically 8AM-5PM M-F, but may be adjusted as necessary. Students will be expected to shadow but also participate in hands on training sessions for various tasks, such as restraint, physical exams, vaccine or drug administration, etc. depending on the activity.