Student
Mad About Bunny: Veterinary students learn effective communication skills
Second-year veterinary student Abigail Schnapper role-plays having a difficult conversation with a client, played by fourth-year veterinary student Kat Murphy. College alumnus Dr. Harrison Reid observes and provides feedback.
July 24, 2025
Words and photo by Jens Odegaard
Veterinarians spend their time making medical and health care decisions for patients that can’t verbally communicate. So, veterinary students need to be able to effectively communicate with the clients who own or care for these animals.
Raising Newton: Puppy raised by vet students graduates as Guide Dog for the Blind
Newton and his handler Kristi pose with Erin Nemivant and Emmie Starchvick after Newton's graduation ceremony.
Emmie Starchvick and Erin Nemivant, both fourth-year veterinary students at the Carlson College of Veterinary Medicine co-raised Newton, a black Labrador puppy, for Guide Dogs for the Blind during their second years.
Veterinary outreach in the Agalta Valley of Olancho, Honduras
Veterinary students perform spays and neuters in an outdoor makeshift surgical suite.
Editor’s note: Edited for length and clarity.