If you are in the livestock producing business, you know about the concern of a future veterinarian shortage. I'm Jeff Keane; I'll be back in one minute to tell you how one lady is addressing the issue.Kristin Patton, a veterinary pathologist at Oregon State University is thinking about the possibility of a veterinarian shortage down the road and has a pilot program that might help the potential situation. An article in Capital Press newspaper by Steve Brown explains the project funded by Banfield Charitable Trust helps Dr. Patton create an interest in a veterinary medicine career. To say that Dr. Patton's approach is to "start them young" might be an understatement. This educator takes her two dogs to kindergarten and first grade classes to let young students actually examine these two cooperative canines with stethoscopes, provided by Banfield and techniques taught by the vet herself. The learning session does have an older helper - Dr. Patton's third grade daughter, Jessica. This project also will bring middle and high school students to Oregon State's campus for tours, demonstrations and hands-on experiences. I can see where these two facets of Dr. Patton's program could really create an interest in becoming a veterinarian. The aspect I like best is the fact Dr. Patton is visiting primarily rural area schools. Many of these students are familiar with large animals and most in the livestock industry feel large animal vets will really be in short supply. I wish Dr. Patton much success. I'm Jeff Keane.

Capital Press March 13, 2009