Austin-area students get first-hand look at veterinary medicine from 'Critter Fixers', American Veterinary Medical Association at 'Vet for a Day'

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(AUSTIN, Texas) June 18, 2024 – Students at Austin's Juan P. Navarro Early College High School will get a chance to explore careers in veterinary medicine with the stars of National Geographic's 'Critter Fixers' program and veterinarians attending the American Veterinary Medical Association's annual Convention.

During the event from 10am-2pm Monday, June 24, Dr. Terrence Ferguson and Dr. Vernard Hodges of 'Critter Fixers,' along with other veterinarians attending the AVMA's Convention and veterinary technicians, will team up with students to teach animal-handling techniques.

"The Vet for a Day event at our annual conventions offers local students a window into the wonderful and rewarding world of veterinary medicine," said Dr. Rena Carlson, AVMA President. "As always, we are so grateful to the 'Critter Fixers' and our generous sponsor, Hill's Pet Nutrition."

The volunteer veterinarians and technicians will offer the students hands-on demonstrations of suturing, ultrasounds and CPR on molds and other simulated equipment (please note that no actual animals are involved in the Vet for a Day event). Organizers expect that about 40 students and an equal number of volunteers will be involved in the activities and discussions.

"It's incredibly rewarding and inspiring to see the response as young students' eyes are opened up to the world of possibilities in veterinary medicine," said Dr. Karen Shenoy, US Chief Veterinary Officer for Hill's Pet Nutrition. "Whether students' paths lead to roles as veterinarians or veterinary technicians or to other opportunities in animal health, we're honored that our continued partnership with the Critter Fixers is helping to welcome a diverse pipeline of young talent into the industry."

About the AVMA

Serving more than 105,000 member veterinarians, the AVMA is the nation's leading representative of the veterinary profession, dedicated to improving the health and wellbeing of animals, humans and the environment. Founded in 1863 and with members in every U.S. state and territory and more than 60 countries, the AVMA is one of the largest veterinary medical organizations in the world. Informed by our members' unique scientific training and clinical knowledge, the AVMA supports the crucial work of veterinarians and advocates for policies that advance the practice of veterinary medicine and improve animal and human health.

About the "Critter Fixers"

The Critter Fixers believe that if children are introduced to the veterinary profession early on, they will be more likely to pursue that career path. Dr. Ferguson and Dr. Hodges created 'Vet for a Day' to give future veterinarians an immersive look into the world of veterinary medicine. The 'Vet for a Day' program packs a ton of pertinent information into a fun-filled, informative day.

About Hill's Pet Nutrition

Founded more than 75 years ago with an unwavering commitment to science-led pet nutrition, Hill's Pet Nutrition is on a mission to help enrich and lengthen the special relationships between people and their pets. Hill's is dedicated to pioneering research for dogs and cats using a scientific understanding of their specific needs. As a leading veterinarian recommended pet food brand, knowledge is our first ingredient with 220+ veterinarians, PhD nutritionists and food scientists working to develop breakthrough innovations in pet health. Hill's Prescription Diet therapeutic nutrition plus our everyday wellness product line, Hill's Science Diet, are sold at vet clinics and pet specialty retailers worldwide. For more information about our products and nutritional philosophy, visit HillsPet.com. Veterinary professionals can visit HillsVet.com for more information.