Based on the popularity of last year’s inaugural Erie County Fair Vet Camp, the Erie County Agricultural Society has announced that it will add a third session to accommodate aspiring veterinarians. Vet Camp is a half day agricultural immersion experience that provides children between the ages of 11-14 the opportunity to work first hand with veterinarians and animals. Sessions are scheduled for Tuesday, August 14th, Wednesday, August 15th and Thursday, August 16th and will focus on a variety of learning disciplines that include:
Pet Wellness & First Aid: Children will learn about general pet welfare and what to do in an emergency situation. Participants will gain an understanding on what to look for when a pet is not feeling well and what should be included in a home pet first aid kit.
Dairy Cow Health: Attendees will be exposed to what it takes to be a Farm Animal Veterinarian through activities like how to administer medication, the reading of vitals (heart rate, temperature, respiratory) and how to check for healthy rumen sounds.
Small Ruminant Farm Animals: Sessions will gain knowledge on how to approach and handle sheep and goats, check for healthy digestion, respiratory and proper nutrition. Children will also have the chance to work one on one with an animal.
The program is limited to three sessions that will accommodate 30 children each. Registration is now open and will be available on a first come first serve basis. The cost for participation is $10 per child. Each participant will receive a Vet Camp t-shirt, lunch and will take home a vet supplies goodie bag. Applicants must be between the ages of 11-14 by January 1, 2018 with proper documentation (copy of birth certificate). Applications are now online at https://www.ecfair.org/p/other/347 and must be postmarked by Monday, May 7th to be eligible for consideration. Questions may be directed to the Fair’s Agriculture Education Office at (716)649-3900 ext. 6499 or by emailing Education Coordinator Amber Klein at aklein@ecfair.org.
