Join us for another session of PetMedic Pathways, a free monthly STEM series designed for high school students interested in animal health, science, and careers in veterinary medicine.

Whether you dream of becoming a veterinarian, veterinary technician, laboratory professional, or simply enjoy science and problem-solving, this interactive program will introduce you to the fascinating world of veterinary laboratory diagnostics and how blood samples help unlock important clues about a patient's health.

December's Topic:
Phlebotomy & Laboratory Testing

Discover how veterinary professionals collect blood samples safely and use laboratory testing to diagnose illness, monitor disease, and guide treatment decisions. Learn why blood work is often one of the first and most valuable diagnostic tools used in veterinary medicine.

We'll explore the basics of veterinary phlebotomy, discuss common laboratory tests such as complete blood counts (CBC), blood chemistry panels, and blood smears, review how samples are collected and processed, and work through real patient cases to see how laboratory results help solve medical mysteries. Students will also participate in interactive laboratory demonstrations and hands-on simulation activities.

By the end of the session, students should be able to:

• Explain the purpose of blood collection and laboratory testing in veterinary medicine.
• Identify common laboratory tests and what information they provide about a patient's health.
• Understand the basic steps involved in collecting, labeling, and processing blood samples.
• Interpret simple laboratory findings to help evaluate a patient case.
• Work together like a veterinary team to determine how laboratory results guide diagnosis and treatment.
  
  

Students are welcome to attend one session or the entire series throughout the school year. Each workshop stands on its own, so you won't fall behind if you miss one. Earn a Certificate of Completion for each session or a special certificate for the series if you attend all nine sessions.

This program is for high school students (grades 9–12) with an interest in STEM, biology, veterinary science, healthcare, laboratory medicine, or medical diagnostics.

Space is limited, so registration is required.