A Virtual Trip to An Animal Hospital
High school seniors enrolled in Erie 1 BOCES’ Animal Science Program at Potter Career & Technical Center toured Southtowns Animal Hospital during their remote learning day. Using Google Meet, Erie 1 BOCES Animal Science Instructor Jessica Sawyer broadcast her lesson while touring the animal hospital.
“The tour included the treatment area, pharmacy, surgery room, and x-ray room,” Sawyer said. “It was a great opportunity to review key lessons from last year’s animal science classes including all of the veterinary tools and machines available.”
In the X-ray room, students identified the personal protective equipment necessary for taking radiographs including a led gown and thyroid protector.
“We also had an opportunity to review vaccine protocol for cats and dogs, while incorporating storage and administration of the vaccines into the discussion,” Sawyer continued.
Thanks to the support of hospital owner Dr. Kim Jacobi, students were able to see an appointment from the business side of veterinary medicine. A history was taken on the patient, the doctor performed a physical exam and explained the findings to them, and they were able to see the treatment of the patient; which included administering a vaccine, a blood draw, and treating an open wound.
“Overall, it helped students tie together key points of our curriculum by seeing it unfold in a real workplace setting,” Sawyer said.
Southtowns Animal Hospital and Erie 1 BOCES Potter Career & Technical Center are both located in West Seneca. The support from local businesses is a cornerstone of the career and technical programs offered at Erie 1 BOCES.
About Erie 1 BOCES
As part of public education, Erie 1 BOCES offers a variety of career and technical programs during the regular school day to high school students in Erie County. High school students interested in learning more about how they can participate in various programs such as animal science, web and gaming technologies, health careers or aviation technology, should visit www.e1b.org/cte or speak with their high school counselor.