A natural compassion for animals and an interest in science is what leads most veterinarians into their field. Learn the role a veterinarian plays in practicing animal and public health while participating in many hands-on activities. These activities will help you learn about the different equipment used by veterinarians, diseases and health problems, and career opportunities as a veterinarian or volunteer. You do not have to own an animal to be in this project!
Grow in Your Project
Starting Out
- Recognize major breeds of different species of animals
- Identify basic needs of animals
- Investigate the different roles of animals
- Describe different stages of an animals’ life
- Discover body systems and organs
Learning More
- Complete health records on an animal
- Learn how to recognize and reduce animal stress
- Investigate how the immune system works
- Recognize how disease can spread among animals
- Learn how parasites affect animal health
Going Further
- Discover the bond between humans and animals
- Investigate the mammalian reproductive system
- Learn about breeding and genetics
- Recognize the importance of zoonotic diseases
Take Your Project Further!
- Job shadow a veterinarian, or pet store employee to learn more about how to care for animals
- Research normal heart rate, respiratory rate, and body temperatures of different animals
- Read Jane Goodall’s work about chimpanzee behavior
- Visit a pharmacist to talk about dispensing of medicine
- Learn how a complete blood count is performed
- Attend a youth quality assurance class
- Look into artificial insemination, embryo transfer, and cloning
- Interview a professional animal trainer
- Talk with someone who has contracted a zoonotic disease and interview them on their experience
- Visits the University of Wisconsin Animal Science Department and the University of Wisconsin Vet Lab
Resources
- *Additional resources available at the Shawano County Extension Office
