Open House Draws Public to Purdue Veterinary Medicine on Spring Fest Weekend

Next weekend, Saturday, April 13, the Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine will host the annual Open House as part of Purdue’s Spring Fest weekend, attracting hundreds of visitors of all ages to Lynn Hall.  Spring Fest is a free and inclusive festival open to all, featuring activities at 36 sites across campus. 

The Purdue Veterinary Medicine Open House will run from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.  Featured activities and events will include tours of the Purdue University Small Animal Hospital showcasing the high standard of care provided at the facilities, demonstrations including a Police K9 show and, at the third-year veterinary student room, Teddy Bear Suturing and the chance to “Dress Like a Surgeon” and learn about endoscopes and radiology.

Among other popular Open House features will be the “Creepy Crawlies” exhibit that explains threats to pet health; a display of winning 4-H Veterinary Science posters and projects from around the state that were showcased at the Indiana State Fair; the Petting Zoo with a variety of animals such as baby chicks, sheep, horses, and more; and presentations about the college’s Canine Educator program, Shelter Medicine, and the Veterinary Nursing Program.  Student clubs such as the Exotics Club, Veterinary Students as One in Culture and Ethnicity (VOICE), and the Student Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care Society, also will have displays and exhibits. 

Additionally, visitors will be able to grab a bite to eat at the Food Animal Club tent, where burgers, hot dogs, and sides will be available for purchase. Families and children also will be able to pick up a Graduation Day card at the Welcome Table when they arrive and then collect stamps as they visit the various displays, demonstrations and events.  Completed cards will earn children the right to receive a “diploma” and a graduation photo at the information booth.

Elsewhere on campus, Spring Fest activities will include the annual Plant Sale and the legendary Bug Bowl that includes the Cockroach Colosseum.  Other major events held in tandem with Spring Fest will include the 16th annual Purdue Challenge 5k run/walk, supporting the Purdue University Institute for Cancer Research, and Purdue Aviation Day.

Writer(s): Kevin Doerr | pvmnews@purdue.edu

Recent Stories

“Paws Up” – brought to you by the PVM Wellness Committee

This week, our appreciation is extended to Dr. Dielson Vieira who is a clinical assistant professor in the Department of Basic Medical Sciences.

When Therapy Isn’t Enough

Emma Senter, a Purdue University Department of Psychological Sciences junior, has always considered herself an animal person. So, when she had the opportunity to join the Human-Animal Partnerships and Interactions (HAPI) Lab in the College of Veterinary Medicine, she jumped at the chance.

PVM Collaborates with Indianapolis Zoo to Host Emerging Conservationist Award Winner at Lynn Hall

Purdue veterinary students had a unique chance this week to hear first-hand from one of the world’s leading conservationists who is making a significant impact while still early in his career.  Through a collaborative arrangement with the Indianapolis Zoo, the College of Veterinary Medicine hosted a visit by Mwezi “Badru” Mugerwa, the winner of the 2025 Indianapolis Prize Emerging Conservationist Award, on Monday, September 29, so he could share his message with Purdue DVM students.

Career Fair Connects PVM Students with Future Opportunities

Close to 75 veterinary medical employers, ranging from individual veterinary practices to corporate enterprises, sent representatives to Purdue University for the College of Veterinary Medicine’s annual Career Fair for DVM and Veterinary Technology students. Held in the Purdue Memorial Union Ballrooms Friday afternoon, September 19, the event attracted a strong turnout of students excited to learn about future career opportunities.