GREENE CO., N.Y. — Over 35 4-H members and local youth came together for a Veterinary Science class spanning from last spring to early this past winter. Each of the two series consisted of five, two-hour sessions and a field trip. Youth were able to tap into local professionals and businesses to further their knowledge in the field of large and small animal veterinary science.
The program started with Veterinary Science I, a class geared towards introducing youth to the importance of animal health in a wide variety of speciesand began with the basics of anatomy as well as proper care. This class allow youth to appreciate the importance of good management and sanitation practices in keeping animals healthy and happy. The participants also had the opportunity to hear from local veterinarian and veterinarian technicians. The group finished out the class by coming together to make a donation to the Humane Society of Columbia-Greene Counties as well a tour their facility and speak with their animal care staff.
The second class, Advanced Veterinary Science, was much more in depth and hands on. Youth were able to participate in a wide variety of dissection activities. This group took a trip to Rhinebeck Animal Hospital and got an in-depth tour of the clinic as well as a lesson on dentistry and anesthesia. This group finished out the year by putting their knowledge to the test and working side by side with Dr. Karen from Copake Veterinary Clinic to perform a necropsy (animal autopsy). This was a crucial part of the class because the youth were able to test not only there safety skills and knowledge of animal anatomy and physiology, but their detective skills as well. Kailey Proper, a local 4-H member said, “This class really helped get me out of my comfort zone. It allowed me to experience hands-on situations that vets or vet techs face, either in an ordinary work day or while going to school for their licenses.”
We would like to say thank you to all of the youth, parents, volunteers, and professionals for enriching the lives of youth in our community. Stay tuned for future class dates coming in the fall of 2018! For more information, please contact Margaret M. Smith 518-828-3346 x201 or mms426@cornell.edu.
Cornell Cooperative Extension is an employer and educator recognized for valuing AA/EEO, Protected Veterans, and Individuals with Disabilities and provides equal program and employment opportunities. The programs provided by this organization are partially funded by monies received from the Counties of Columbia and Greene.
4-H is New York’s only youth development program directly connected to the technological advances and the latest research at Cornell University. 4-H participants learn leadership, citizenship and life skills through hands-on projects in three primary program areas: science and technology; healthy living; and citizenship. To find out more about 4-H and youth programs in Columbia and Greene Counties, contact us at 518-828-3346 orColumbiagreene@cornell.edu or visit our website, www.ccecolumbiagreene.org . You can also “Like” us on Facebook…Cornell Cooperative Extension of Columbia and Greene Counties.
–Margaret Smith, 4-H Agriculture and STEM Educator
Cornell Cooperative Extension of Columbia and Greene Counties
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