Veterinary Center Welcomes Guests - Grandparents and Grandchildren Experience Veterinary Medicine

STILLWATER, Okla.—The Oklahoma State University’s Center for Veterinary Health Sciences opened its doors to 46 “students”—23 grandchildren and 23 grandparents—who attended OSU’s Grandparent University on June 26 and 27, 2008. During the two-day program, participants learned about veterinary medicine through many hands on activities.

The first day visitors toured the Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital where they experienced five small animal health stations—eye essentials, teddy bear surgery, CPR techniques on Jerry the dog, endoscopy puzzlers, and heart facts.

Kendell Metcalf, 4th year veterinary student, assists Hannah, 7, of Muskogee during Teddy Bear Surgery

Summer Priest, Veterinary Technician, holds Trevor a Golden Retriever while Dr. Nicole Ponzio shows Nathan, 8, of Edmond where to listen to Trevor’s heartbeat

The second day of class gave participants an opportunity to learn about anatomy, parasitology, and microorganisms.

Grandchildren examine bone samples and try to identify the species

Sabrina, 8, of Plano, Texas, holds a baby potbelly pig as grandparents and grandchildren learn more about anatomy

Ethan, 10, of Elk City examines a slide under a microscope to determine what caused one animal to become ill as his grandmother checks out the slide under his sister’s microscope

Left to right: Grace, 7, of Derby Kan. and Hannah, 7, of Muskogee, Okla., listen intently with their grandmothers as Dr. Holly Evers shares examples of germs that accumulate on everyday things we use such as door knobs and stair rails

Thanks to organizers Ann Govek and Dr. Carolynn MacAllister and participating faculty Drs. Jill Brunker, Holly Evers, Carole Muchmore, Nicole Ponzio, Larry Stein and D. L. Step for making Grandparent University an educational and enjoyable time for all!