The Dog Doctors outreach program goes from school to school in northeast Georgia, spreading their love of animals and science to instill a spark for veterinary medicine. Stemming from the University of Georgia’s College of Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Paige Carmichael and her team of dedicated students use their passion and knowledge for their field to create an environment that is interactive, entertaining, and educational. Dr. Paige Carmichael, DVM and professor of pathology, and a team of UGA students visit your classroom with three large Bernese Mountain dogs—the Dog Doctors. Within these sessions, Dr. Carmichael will talk about her research and the roles that the Dog Doctors play in her development of tests to detect genetic diseases in dogs. She will answer students’ questions about the dogs, her research, and careers in veterinary medicine and will show photographs of the Dog Doctors as they grew up. Students will be able to interact with the dogs while learning about x-rays and bones of animals.
What’s New in 2024?
In 2024, the Dog Doctors program underwent an expansion with the introduction of a synchronous-remote option. This innovative addition allows for sessions to be conducted via live Zoom calls, led by the Dog Doctors team, and complemented by video clips that provide additional context and content. The primary motivation behind incorporating this format into the program was to broaden its reach and impact by enabling the team to connect with a larger number of elementary schools.
By embracing this remote approach, the Dog Doctors aim to overcome geographical barriers and logistical constraints, thereby maximizing their ability to engage with students and communities across a wider geographic area. This expansion aligns with the program’s overarching goal of promoting awareness and interest in veterinary medicine among young learners, while also addressing the challenges of accessibility and inclusivity in education.
Through the synchronous-remote option, the Dog Doctors strive to make their valuable resources and educational experiences available to a broader audience, enriching the learning opportunities for students regardless of their location.
