Animal Hospital of Worthington, OH

Our goal is to provide veterinary students with practical, real-world experience in diagnosing, treating, and managing a variety of small animal cases, as well as gaining insight into the day-to-day operations of a general veterinary practice.

Key Components:

1. Clinical Skills and Diagnostic Techniques
2. Medical and Surgical Case Management
3. Client Communication and Education

Learning Outcomes:

• Gain hands-on experience in performing basic veterinary tasks and procedures under the supervision of licensed veterinarians.
• Enhance diagnostic reasoning and develop problem-solving skills in real-world cases.
• Build communication skills by interacting with clients and discussing patient care plans.
• Increase confidence in clinical decision-making and learn the standard protocols for common veterinary conditions
• Understand the scope and demands of a general veterinary practice, including client care, medical management, and practice operations.

Supervision and Feedback:

Throughout the elective, the student will receive mentorship and guidance from practicing veterinarians and support staff. Regular feedback will be provided to help the student reflect on their progress, identify areas for improvement, and further develop their clinical skills. This elective experience allows veterinary students to bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world veterinary practice, preparing them for a future in clinical practice.

Staffing Resources

Veterinarians:

We have six experienced practitioners who oversee daily clinical operations, diagnose and treat patients, and guide students in their learning. They provide direct supervision and mentorship, ensuring that the student receives feedback and practical knowledge throughout the rotation.

Registered Veterinary Technicians:

We employ 6 RVTs as well as a number of RVT students. They assist in the daily care of animals, perform technical tasks such as blood draws, diagnostics, anesthesia monitoring, and radiography, and often serve as key educators for our veterinary student externs. They demonstrate essential clinical procedures, supervise students during tasks like injections, and help train them in technical aspects of veterinary care.

Veterinary Receptionists/Support Staff:

Receptionists and support staff provide an essential resource by helping manage appointments, client communication, and logistics within the practice. They may assist students in understanding the importance of client service, office management, and practice administration, especially in terms of customer relationships, billing, and scheduling.

Equipment and Technology Resources

Diagnostic Equipment:

• In-house Laboratory Equipment: This includes a full list of IDEXX in-house analyzers include the CatalystDX, ProCyte, and SediVue. Students learn to operate this equipment under supervision and interpret lab results.
• Imaging Equipment:
  • Radiography (X-ray)
  • Ultrasonography

Surgical and Anesthesia Equipment:

• Surgical Tools and Equipment: We have standard surgical instruments for routine procedures like spaying, neutering, and dental cleanings, as well as specialized instrumentation for advanced orthopedic procedures. Students assist in sterile technique, instrument handling, surgical prep, and surgical / dental procedures.
• Anesthesia Machines: Students may assist in monitoring anesthetized patients, learning how to administer anesthesia safely, and adjusting levels based on the patient's condition.
• Sterilization Equipment: Students learn about infection control practices.
• Patient Monitoring Devices:  Students learn how to interpret these parameters and adjust treatment plans accordingly.
• IV Pumps and Fluid Therapy: Students will observe or participate in fluid administration for both routine care and emergency cases, learning how to calculate and administer appropriate fluids for patients.

Client and Case Resources

Diverse Case Load:

• Students will gain experience in routine preventive care as well as sick pet / urgent care.
• Students will learn how to discuss diagnoses, treatment plans, and follow-up care with clients. They may also practice breaking bad news, discussing euthanasia, and educating clients about pet health.

Together, these resources help ensure that veterinary students gain a comprehensive and well-rounded clinical experience during their elective rotation with Animal Hospital of Worthington. We aim to support student growth and help prepare the next generation of veterinary medicine.

Our student externs mirror our DVM schedule and in general are expected to be at the hospital from 8am-5pm Monday - Friday, with a break for lunch. Dress is business casual attire or scrubs (no color restrictions) and closed-toe shoes. Surgical and dental procedures take place every day, usually in the mornings, and outpatient runs all day. Most students spend the mornings in surgery/dentistry and the afternoons in outpatient, but that is flexible depending on specific skills or areas of interest. 

5756 N High St
Worthington, OH 43085
United States