Kids dream big at Waterloo Region veterinary school

A group of girls in Waterloo Region say they're well on their way to becoming the next generation of local veterinarians thanks to a new program offered by the Kitchener-Waterloo Humane Society.

The Vets in Training program gives young people with an interest in veterinary medicine the chance to learn from a trained veterinarian in an active animal hospital.

• Veterinary school for kids offered by Kitchener-Waterloo Humane Society

"Since I was small, I fell in love with animals when I saw one," said participant Sierra Artinger, 10, who has two cats and a dog at home. "I don't know, it's just something about them."

Artinger said she wants to help animals and that the thought of dealing with sick or injured animals doesn't trouble her.

"I think I'm fine, considering that I've dissected a pig brain and cow eye," she said. "We actually...had them preserved in our basement for over a year."

Professional exposure to the industry

Artinger was one of 13 girls at the humane society on Thursday night, participating in a six week program that began on Oct. 22.

She and her peers are working with real and simulated animals, learning everything from animal anatomy to surgical operating techniques.

"This is exposure they would never get until they're actually in vet school," said Kathleen McCaughey, recreation program coordinator with the KWHS. "There is nothing like that in any other humane society. At least, not that I've seen."

Demand for the Vets in Training program has been so high that McCaughey said the humane society is already planning a second session, which will begin in early November.

Two more sessions will be offered in the new year: one for children aged eightto10 and another for those over 14 who may already be choosing their school courses with a career in mind.