Good Vibes Only: Borderland vet students lend a helping paw

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA)— Animals waiting for their forever homes at animal shelters are getting extra love, attention and medical care. Pima Medical Institute has partnered with local animal shelters, including the Humane Society of El Paso, to provide vital medical care.

"They take care of our animals while they have them here. And they spoil them a lot. They come back very happy,” said Natalie Peters, a veterinarian at the Humane Society of El Paso.

As part of their training, the next generation of veterinary professionals provide animals with medical care and assist with adoptions. Pima Medical Institute called the partnership a mutual benefit since students are also helping address the ongoing vet shortage and assist shelters that are dealing with overcapacity issues.

“We get to help treat those pets. They assist us not only with bringing animals to our school so that we can, you know, practice some skills on them, learn how to, you know, just observe them. But also they work with our students in clinical externships. They provide a lot of resources for us and our students. They are a big component of our program,” said Lorraine Chavez, director of clinical education for the vet tech program at Pima Medical Institute.

School representatives told ABC-7 that students receive real experience before they graduate.

Student Nayeli Hernandez said it was wonderful seeing the animals flourish.

“Sometimes they come in shy, and during their time here, they come out of their shell. It's been an amazing experience having to be with these animals, not only because they help us with our skills, but we get to help them.”

Pima Medical Institute representative said the program spans 22 months and students receive an associate’s degree when they graduate. Students appreciate the opportunity to handle animals and learn how to care for them while advancing their medical training.

"I've learned to carry myself more appropriately and learn how to work with these fellows,” said another student.

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