Students at Lincoln Memorial University-Richard A. Gillespie College of Veterinary Medicine (LMU-CVM) participated in a specialized “Wildlife & Zoo Medicine” darting lab at the DeBusk Veterinary Teaching Center (DVTC).
This hands-on learning experience introduced students to the use of remote drug delivery systems as a safe and effective method for administering anesthesia to wildlife and zoo species.
The lab, which has been a collaboration with Kentucky Wildlife and Inland Fish biologists and National Park Service (NPS) Great Smoky Mountains National Park biologists for approximately five years, is designed to prepare future veterinarians for the unique challenges of working with non-domesticated animals.
“This type of practical exposure is invaluable for our veterinary students,” said Dr. Paul Nader. “It gives them confidence and competence in dealing with complex scenarios they might encounter in their careers.”
In addition to learning technical skills, the lab emphasizes the importance of safety, conservation, and responsible wildlife care. Students gained valuable experience in handling remote drug delivery systems, which are essential for immobilizing animals in a minimally invasive manner.
Lincoln Memorial University (LMU) is a values-based learning community dedicated to providing educational experiences in liberal arts and professional studies. The LMU-Richard A. Gillespie College of Veterinary Medicine is located on LMU’s main campus in Harrogate, Tennessee, with additional academic facilities in nearby Lee County, Virginia. LMU-CVM is an integral part of the University’s medical programs and provides real-world, community-based education in a collaborative learning environment. For more information about LMU-CVM, call 1.800.325.0900, ext. 6600 or visit us online at vetmed.LMUnet.edu.
