Lincoln Memorial University College of Veterinary Medicine Partners with SPCA Serving Erie County
May 30, 2018
By: Gina Browning, Chief Communications Officer
The SPCA Serving Erie County is pleased to announce the growth of an exciting partnership with students from the College of Veterinary Medicine at Lincoln Memorial University (LMU) in Harrogate, TN. Five to 12 LMU students will be in a month-long rotation in the SPCA’s infirmary and Lipsey Clinic as part of a new, five-year arrangement between the two groups.
According to SPCA President and CEO Gary Willoughby, “Education is a key element of the work we do at the SPCA. Playing a role in future veterinarians’ education, whether shelter medicine or private practice, is important to us. We are fortunate to have a fertile learning environment in our new facility that includes traditional shelter medicine, vibrant foster programs, cruelty investigations, farm and wildlife divisions, and other areas that allow students to gain exposure to a wide variety of issues in animal welfare that can be a beneficial part of their education. Students will care for a variety of species, participate in animal cruelty investigation ride-alongs, and work with foster parents and Lipsey Clinic clients while also learning about the administrative side of this business, such a budgeting, human resources, public relations, facility maintenance and design, and more.”
Students will participate in a wide variety of areas throughout the SPCA and in the community depending on their individual interests and experience. Some students with Western New York ties will reside with family or friends while others are being housed through LMU, covering all students’ costs (including supplies and equipment) to encourage and further the students’ learning experience.
“Because education has been a cornerstone of the SPCA Serving Erie County since its founding more than 150 years ago, we’re thrilled to be able to provide a learning environment for these students, better-preparing them for their future careers after learning what we do regarding animal welfare,” Willoughby says. “Additionally, we expect that they will bring new information and fresh ideas to us. Innovation and lifelong learning make us all better-equipped to help animal in need and the people who care for them.”