Does your child have an interest in working with animals when they get older?

flickr photo by Yukari*

Many young people express an interest in working with animals, both large and small, and — aside from getting an opportunity to shadow a veterinarian, working in 4-H and activities of that nature — it can be hard to get a feel for what's really involved in the various fields of animal care, from horses to turtles, and everything in between.

A local state-of-the-art facility will be opening their doors for one day only for Vet-A-Visit, Michigan State University College of Veterinary Medicine's annual open house. The theme for 2012 is "One World, One Medicine, One Health."

A great environment for children aged 6 years and older, the event will take place Saturday, April 14, at the Veterinary Medical Complex from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. Admission is free, and there is no need to pre-register.

Interactive exhibits and demonstrations will illustrate veterinary medical care for a wide range of animals, including how to keep your pet healthy. The Michigan Society of Herpetologists will also be participating, showcasing reptiles, and Zeke the Wonder Dog will be available for photos after his frisbee stunt performance.

A Stuffed Animal Clinic will be available, in which student doctors repair stuffed animals.

Those interested in becoming a veterinarian or veterinary technician can obtain information about academic requirements from undergraduate advisors.

Other event highlights include opportunities to milk a cow, a petting zoo sponsored by Omega Tau Sigma and demonstrations of equine dressage, a form of horseback riding.

The Veterinary Medical Center is located at the corner of Bogue Street and Wilson Road on the Michigan State University campus. Greeters will be on hand to direct visitors around the various events. Click here for more information on the annual event, including directions, parking and event maps.

For more resources to nurture a child's interest in working with animals professionally, click here to read a blog on the topic written by Ann Arbor native and graduate of MSU, Dr. Lyssa Alexander, DVM of All Creatures Animal Clinic.

Lorrie Shaw leads the pets section for AnnArbor.com. Catch her daily dog walking and pet sitting adventures or email her directly and subscribe to AnnArbor.com's email newsletters.