Seniors in the Small Animal Science program at the LoGuidice Educational Center stepped into the fast-paced world of veterinary care on Nov. 18 as they assisted with a low-cost neuter clinic for cats at Whiskers Veterinary Hospital in Dunkirk.
The opportunity arose after Dr. Sarah Johnson and the hospital team hosted a special training day on Nov. 12 for the Career & Technical Education students from Erie 2–Chautauqua–Cattaraugus BOCES.
During that session, students learned the expectations for each task they would undertake during the clinic and observed a full feline neuter procedure — a first-time experience for many who had never witnessed surgery before.
More than 80 cats were signed up for services; senior students played a key role in helping roughly 30 of those cats receive neuter surgeries and rabies vaccinations.
During the clinic, students assisted with checking in cats as they were dropped off, monitored the animals after sedation, prepared them for surgery, assisted with retraction during procedures, recorded the administration of pain management and reversal medications, supported recovery, and reviewed discharge instructions with owners.
“The students were fabulous and a tremendous help,” Dr. Johnson said.
For the students, the experience was both rewarding and educational.
“It was an incredible experience for the students as they were able to apply hands-on knowledge from class to real-life situations,” said Small Animal Science instructor Holly Lemke. “The training day was very helpful in providing students with an overview and creating confidence in their ability to carry out their tasks.”
Lemke added that Dr. Johnson and the Whiskers Veterinary Hospital staff were “very patient, communicative, and professional” as they guided students through each step of the clinic.
Participating students included Isabella Bongiovanni of Dunkirk, Cadence Cave of Dunkirk, Nathan Frary of Cassadaga Valley, Samantha Buthy of Gowanda, Angelina Mekus of Fredonia, Savayah Long of Gowanda, Carleen Logan of Gowanda, Elizabeth Kryniski of Brocton, Adabella O’Hara of Cassadaga Valley, Lyra Stephenson of Westfield, and Hanan Mohamad Narvaez of Dunkirk.
