Morehead State Vet Tech partners with local rescue organization
Students in Morehead State University’s Veterinary Technology Program are gaining hands-on clinical experience while helping rescued animals through a partnership with Saving the Animals of Rowan.
The collaboration allows students to work directly with animals under the supervision of licensed veterinarians and credentialed veterinary technician faculty. Students assist with patient care from admission through discharge, treating animals receiving wellness care, diagnostic procedures, and medically necessary surgeries.
During their stay at the MSU Veterinary Technology facility, animals are cared for collaboratively by students and faculty, and they also receive enrichment activities designed to strengthen the human-animal bond.
“The partnership between Morehead State University Veterinary Technology Program and Saving the Animals of Rowan has been instrumental in advancing student success within our program,” Associate Professor of Veterinary Technology Dr. Amy Staton (Class of 2003, 2004, 2005, 2013) said.
Staton said the experience allows students to apply classroom knowledge in real-world medical cases while also providing compassionate care to animals in need.
“Students gain invaluable hands-on experience by working with real medical cases, allowing them to apply their knowledge while providing compassionate care,” she said. “The animals benefit from the exceptional Fear Free practices implemented by faculty and students, receiving medically necessary treatments while becoming more comfortable with human interaction and the veterinary environment.”
Many animals transition to permanent homes after completing treatment and care through the program.
“The relationship between STAR and MSU was highlighted in our Carnegie Reclassification Application, showcasing how community engagement can be used to impact both people and animals,” said Coordinator of Service-Learning Andrew Sexton (Class of 2020, 2022).
Staton said the program is grateful for the long-standing partnership and its role in preparing highly skilled veterinary technicians while serving the community.
To learn more about this partnership, you can email Sexton at atsexton@moreheadstate.edu or email Staton at a.staton@moreheadstate.edu.
For more information about its programs, contact the Department of Agricultural Sciences at agsi@moreheadstate.edu or call 606-783-2662.
