Program gives aspiring veterinarians an early start

A Lakeland High student pets Mack, one of the dogs in the program. (slideshow)

LAKELAND (Bay News 9) -- Aspiring veterinarians are getting their start early, thanks to a Polk County high school.

At Lakeland High School's Veterinary Science Academy, students like Michael Helm and Amanda Hunter are training to become vet technicians. Among the first things they learn are the basics of animal care.

"We learn everything from grooming to bathing," Hunter said.

The animals don't always cooperate.

"Sometimes they don't want to listen," Helm said. "If they don't feel liking doing anything, they won't."

Teacher Jason Butler leads the students through obedience training with a pack of dogs that belong to the instructors.

The students are also learning some critical skills, like how to perform CPR on an animal.

"The smaller animals have to be laid on their sides so you don't crush them," Helm said. "The bigger animals have to be on their back."

Later in the program, the students will even learn how to give injections to the animals.

The program lasts four years. During their senior year, the students are expected to do internships with local veterinarians.