Public Invited to Learn about Veterinary Medicine at 2026 PVM Open House April 18

children are being shown a reptile up close

The Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine will welcome the public for its annual Spring Open House at Lynn Hall on Saturday, April 18, 2026. Scheduled from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., the event will feature a hands-on look at the world of veterinary medicine.

Designed for prospective students, families, and animal enthusiasts, the event provides an opportunity to explore the college’s programs, facilities, and community impact through interactive displays, activities and demonstrations. Among other features, visitors will be able to tour the Purdue University Veterinary Hospital and learn about the level of care provided to animal patients. Note that closed-toed shoes are required for the hospital tours.

Attendees also will be able to watch demonstrations, including a police K-9 presentation that will highlight the various activities performed by K-9 officers. In addition, students in the first-, second- and third-year DVM classes will host exhibits covering such disciplines and specialties as anatomy, hematology, toxicology, pathology and surgery. The surgery exhibit organized by the third-year students even will include opportunities to gown up like a real surgeon and learn about skills like suturing. Another popular area at the Open House is the Petting Zoo where visitors can meet and interact with friendly farm animals.

Other Open House activities will include the opportunity to meet the college’s Canine Educators; learn about Shelter Medicine and the Priority 4 Paws program; see a fully equipped mobile veterinary unit and observe the tools large animal veterinarians use to provide on-farm care; and visit the veterinary technology exhibit that will highlight the college’s Veterinary Technology program and showcase essential clinical skills. Additionally, families and children will be able to pick up a Graduation Day card at the Welcome Table and collect prizes as they visit the displays and demonstrations, and then receive a “diploma” and have the opportunity to get a graduation photo!

The Open House is a free event that is part of Purdue’s Spring Fest celebration that spans the College of Veterinary Medicine, the College of Agriculture buildings and grounds, and Memorial Mall.

Writer(s): PVM News | pvmnews@purdue.edu

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