NVA American Pet Hospital, NV

Description of Elective Experience

During the elective experience at American Pet Hospital, the veterinary student will be fully integrated into our hospital team, gaining hands-on experience in a small animal general practice. Under the supervision of our veterinarians, they will participate in daily clinical activities, including patient examinations, diagnostic workups, treatment planning, and surgical preparation. The student will also have the opportunity to observe and assist in a variety of soft tissue surgeries and dental procedures, including those performed with our cutting-edge surgical laser. Additionally, the student will be exposed to advanced therapeutic modalities such as Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy and laser therapy for pain management and tissue healing. In both routine and emergency cases, the student will contribute to patient care and case discussions. This elective is designed to provide a comprehensive and supportive learning environment that fosters clinical skill development, professional communication, and critical thinking preparing the student for the demands of a veterinary internship and future clinical practice.

Institutional and Educational Resources - staffing, equipment, etc.

Staffing & Clinical Team

  • Licensed Veterinarians
  • Veterinary Technicians
  • Veterinary Assistants
  • Practice Manager / Hospital Administrator
  • Reception and Client Services Team
  • Visiting specialists 

Diagnostic & Medical Equipment

  • Digital Radiography
  • Ultrasound Machine
  • In-house Laboratory Equipment:
    • CBC and Chemistry Analyzers
    • Urinalysis Analyzer
    • PRP
    • Microscopes (with cytology and hematology capability)
  • ECG and Blood Pressure Monitors
  • Pulse Oximeters
  • IV Fluid Pumps
  • Dental Radiography Unit
  • Otoscope and Ophthalmoscope

Surgical & Therapeutic Equipment

  • Surgical Suites with Adjustable Tables and Surgical Lighting
  • Anesthesia Machines with Isoflurane/Sevoflurane
  • Patient Warming Systems (e.g., Bair Hugger)
  • Monitoring Equipment (ECG, SpO₂, blood pressure)
  • Cutting-edge Surgical Laser
  • Laser Therapy Unit
  • PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) Therapy Equipment
  • Electrocautery
  • Full Dental Suite:
    • Ultrasonic Scalers
    • High/Low-Speed Handpieces
    • Dental X-ray

Pharmacy & Medical Supplies

  • On-site Pharmacy with a wide range of medications
  • Vaccines, Preventives, and Injectable Medications
  • IV Fluids and Critical Care Supplies
  • Controlled Substance Storage 

Facilities

  • Exam Rooms (species-specific if applicable)
  • Treatment Area
  • Surgical Suite(s)
  • Radiology Room
  • In-House Laboratory
  • Pharmacy
  • Staff Lounge and Workstation
Student Responsibilities - what is expected of students in terms of hours, days of the week, shadowing or actual support?

During their clinical elective at American Pet Hospital, students are expected to actively participate as part of the veterinary team. To ensure a meaningful and educational experience, the following responsibilities and expectations apply:

Schedule & Hours

  • Students are expected to be present Monday through Friday, unless otherwise arranged.
  • Typical hours are [e.g., 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM], with flexibility based on caseload, procedures, or emergency cases.

Clinical Participation

  • Students will begin by shadowing veterinarians and technicians to become familiar with hospital protocols.
  • As comfort and competence grow, students are expected to actively assist with:
    • Physical exams
    • Patient restraint
    • Sample collection (blood, urine, feces)
    • Administering medications (under supervision)
    • Surgical prep and assisting in procedures (where appropriate)

Case Involvement

  • Students are encouraged to follow cases from intake through discharge, participating in daily rounds and discussing diagnoses and treatment options.
  • They may be asked to present cases, write brief SOAP notes, or research relevant topics for discussion.

Professional Conduct

  • Punctuality, reliability, and appropriate professional attire are expected at all times.
  • Students should maintain confidentiality, follow hospital protocols, and treat all clients and staff with courtesy and respect.
  • Asking questions and seeking feedback is encouraged, but students should be proactive and demonstrate initiative.
Supervisor
Dr. Jed Topham DVM
Contact email
Address

3879 E SUNSET RD
LAS VEGAS, NV 89120-3920
United States

Practice or Institution Type
Is student housing available?
No
Hours of supervision by a licensed veterinarian per week
40
Global engagement opportunity
No
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