Senior BVC Campers Dive into Dog Care

June 24, 2016

Fifty aspiring 10^th, 11^th, and 12^th graders came to Lynn Hall this week for the seventh annual Senior Boiler Vet Camp. Starting Sunday, June 19, DVM student counselors led the campers through a week of first-hand experiences in caring for shelter dogs. The campers learned about the veterinarian’s and veterinary technician’s role in the wellness care of shelter animals and preparation of dogs for adoption. Groups of campers teamed-up to care for ten dogs from the Clinton County Humane Society and the Almost Home Humane Society, learning the various needs of wellness care required for their camp dog. Additionally, the campers learned dog behavior and training techniques, performed physical exams, completed fecal exams, and learned about diagnostic blood work including complete blood count (CBC). They also gained practical experience in the proper method to glove and gown for surgery.

On Wednesday, June 22, the senior campers traveled to South Bend, Ind., to spend the day at the Humane Society of St. Joseph County. The campers met with Purdue Veterinary Medicine alumna and medical director of the humane society, Dr. Carol Ecker (PU DVM ’64), and her veterinary team, to learn about their roles in working with pets at a large animal shelter. The campers also gained understanding about the many other needs that must be addressed for each dog in their care.

Closing ceremonies for another successful and memorable Senior Boiler Vet Camp will be held tomorrow (Saturday, June 25). A big THANK YOU is in order for all the counselors and instructors who helped make BVC a huge success!