Hello, Dr. Rasmusson here from Southwest Veterinary Hospital. I often get ask by school-age children, “How can I learn more about being a veterinarian?” I highly recommend becoming a member of your local 4-H club. 4-H is a national organization that was created with the goal to develop clubs where children could “learn by doing”. Nevada’s first 4-H clubs were organized in 1914. Since then the 4-H motto: “I pledge my head to clearing thinking, my heart to greater loyalty, my hands to greater service, and my health to better living” as been central to the groups focus on developing youth.
The diverse 4-H curriculum allows children from ages 5-19 to pick projects that interest them and foster experimental learning. Project subjects include:
Science, Technology, Engineering and Math
Animal and Agricultural Science
Business and Citizenship
Creative Arts
Diversity and Inclusion
Environmental and Outdoor Science
Healthy Living and Food
Professional Development
I greatly enjoyed a variety of project in the 10 years I was a member of my local 4-H club in Ohio growing up. I learned about veterinary medicine, how to care and show rabbits, goats, chickens, how to sew, how to make bread, how to take landscape photographs – it was so much fun! 4-H summer camp was also a great experience – in Nevada, the summer camp is held on the shores of Lake Tahoe.
Interested in learning what 4-H clubs are in Washoe County? Check out this website: https://www.unce.unr.edu/4H/counties/washoe/
Here is a list of veterinary science projects available as a 4-H member:
Feel free to ask me about 4-H next time I see you at SWVH!
Sincerely,
Dr. R