Vet med brings 10 days of education and fun to Calgary Stampede

Twenty-two DVM students and 10 graduate students and postdocs from the University of Calgary’s Faculty of Veterinary Medicine (UCVM) made a remarkable impact yet again this year at the Calgary Stampede, the "world's largest outdoor show on earth," with their interactive and educational booth located in the Agriculture Barn. For the full 10 days of the Stampede, the booth became a hub of learning, engagement, and fun for thousands of visitors, both local Calgarians and international guests.

Visitors of all ages had the unique chance to speak with real-life veterinary students who shared their knowledge and passion for veterinary medicine. These interactions allowed the public to ask questions, learn about the veterinary field, and understand the dedication required to pursue a career in veterinary medicine or research. 

Not only did they share information about the path to veterinary medicine, but they also shared information about a unique resource that UCalgary has, which is W.A. Ranches. This ranch is situated on 19,000 acres north of Cochrane, Alta., is more than just a 1,000-head cow-calf operation. Gifted in 2018 to the University of Calgary, it is a site for teaching, research, community engagement and outreach.

The veterinary students who manned the booth found engaging with the public both rewarding and educational. "My favourite part about working the booth was being able to share my knowledge and experience in vet school with people of all ages, from all over the world," says Emily Mertens, UCVM Class of 2027. 

"It is always refreshing to talk to kids, especially those who aspire to be veterinarians," says Grace Ochigbo, a PhD student at UCVM. "My favourite part was experiencing the awe and wonder that is a kid’s imagination as they toured the specimens on display at the booth, such as skulls and organs including hearts, kidneys, stomach, bones and more.”

Ochigbo recounts a standout interaction with a young visitor and her father: "A young girl of about fifth grade stopped by with her dad and was very keen on becoming a vet, She asked questions like what does she need to get into vet school? Is there something she could start now to keep her dream alive?

"She was very interested in the specimens and asking what exactly we do as vets to be sure it matches up with what she already knows. She was fascinated trying out the pregnancy detection using the palpation cow simulators. The amazement shown by her facial features was golden."

Throughout Stampede, visitors had the opportunity to engage with two different types of realistic simulators, enhancing their understanding of livestock management. One highlight was the chance to learn how to check for pregnancy in cows, using specialized simulators, providing an invaluable educational experience that captivated many.

Students also conducted twice-daily calving demonstrations on another simulator, offering a unique glimpse into the vital process of calving. These presentations not only showcased the skills required for successful livestock management but also emphasized the importance of veterinary care in ensuring the health and welfare of both the mother and calf. Through these hands-on sessions, UCVM aimed to raise awareness about the complexities of animal husbandry and the critical role veterinarians play in agricultural practices.

Visitors of the booth were captivated by the display of fascinating anatomy specimens, including a massive cow rumen — one of four compartments that make up a cow’s digestive system. These specimens provided a rare and educational insight into the anatomy and physiology of animals, sparking curiosity and admiration among the visitors. 

Mertens says, "The interest in our dystocia (difficult calving) demo and sheer amazement at the size of a cow’s stomach (rumen) and a horse’s heart never gets old!"

Beyond the interactive displays and activities, UCVM's presence at the Stampede also served a broader purpose. The booth was an important platform for advocating the significance of agriculture and the importance of knowing where our food comes from. The faculty emphasized the critical role that veterinarians play in ensuring the health and welfare of livestock, which directly impacts food safety and security. 

Additionally, UCVM aimed to inspire children from a young age and from any background to consider careers in veterinary medicine and to educate them on the educational path required to achieve this goal. The message is: There’s a place for everyone at the table when it comes to careers in veterinary medicine, animal health and research.

“It is important that UCVM has a presence at Stampede to educate the public about the role veterinarians play in our society, especially in agriculture," says Mertens. "It can be easy to forget that the information we learn in vet school is not common knowledge, so Stampede is the best place to reach a large amount of people from all backgrounds. 

"Additionally, the ongoing research that the UCVM does regarding improving animal health and welfare at Stampede plays a vital role in the evolution of animal events at not only Stampede, but also for similar events around the world."

UCVM also hosted several government tours during the event. These tours offered a chance for policy-makers and officials to see first-hand the educational efforts and the advocacy work being done by the faculty. It highlighted the essential connection between veterinary medicine, agriculture, and public health, reinforcing the importance of supporting such initiatives.

Thank you to everyone who visited the UCVM booth at the Calgary Stampede. Your interest and engagement made our 10 (plus a half-day for Sneak-A-Peek!) days of education and fun a success. We appreciated the chance to share our passion for veterinary medicine and the role of veterinarians in agriculture. We look forward to seeing you again next year!