Nebraska Professional Program in Veterinary Medicine

Congratulations to the Class of 2026!!!

UNL PPVM students recently came together for the second annual PPVM Vet Olympics, a fun-filled tradition held before finals. Students enjoyed an afternoon of food, teamwork, and friendly competition as they put their veterinary skills to the test in a variety of creative events. Activities included the gown huck and tuck, CMT three-legged race, free catch, cone of triumph, crate crew, and the rad relay race. Participants and winners alike received fun prizes while celebrating the end of the semester with classmates and friends. Events like Vet Olympics provide students with an opportunity to relax, connect, and build community during a busy time of year.

Members of the UNL PPVM Veterinary Business Management Association and Zoo, Exotic, Wildlife, and Companion Animal Club recently toured the new animal hospital at Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium. Students explored behind-the-scenes areas including surgery suites, the diet preparation kitchen, recovery and quarantine rooms, pharmacy, and the clinical pathology lab.

During the visit, students learned about safe animal darting and anesthesia, zoo pharmacology, the roles of veterinary technicians, and important safety considerations in zoo medicine. They also gained insight into pathways for pursuing careers in zoo veterinary medicine.

The veterinary staff provided an outstanding experience, generously answering students’ many questions and making the tour both educational and engaging. The UNL PPVM is grateful for the opportunity and looks forward to continuing its connection with Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium.

First-year veterinary students in the PPVM neuroanatomy lab recently put their skills into practice by performing neurological exams on their pets. Students practiced assessing reflexes and evaluating cranial nerve function while gaining hands-on experience with techniques used in clinical veterinary medicine.

These interactive learning experiences help students build confidence in patient assessment while strengthening their understanding of neuroanatomy and neurologic function. Thank you to the wonderful animal companions who helped make the lab such a success!

Not your average dental appointment! 🐴🦷

Ever wondered why horses need their teeth “floated”? Unlike ours, horse teeth erupt continuously and can develop sharp points that make eating painful and inefficient. Floating is the process of smoothing those edges to keep them comfortable, healthy, and able to properly chew.

Our vet students had the incredible opportunity to visit Camp Kitaki for a hands-on learning experience in equine dentistry with Dr. Pat McInteer, Dr. Dana Dolch, and Dr. Sarah Schuelke from Hillcrest Animal Clinic.

Huge thank you to Camp Kitaki and these amazing veterinarians for sharing their time, expertise, and passion for equine care!

Please join us in congratulating Dr. Shaw Clement on being named a recipient of the Holling Family Award for Every Person and Every Interaction Matters: Faculty Impact Award for the 2025–2026 academic year!

This award recognizes faculty members who embody excellence in teaching through meaningful interactions, student support, and a lasting impact on the learning environment. Dr. Clement’s dedication to student success, inclusive teaching, and thoughtful mentorship continues to make a positive difference within our PPVM community.

Congratulations, Dr. Clement, on this well-deserved recognition!

Students, pets, and a bit of creativity came together for a memorable time at the co-sponsored Royal Canin and VOICE Pet Paw Print Painting event. 🎨

PPVM students brought their pets to campus to create personalized tote bags featuring their pets’ paw prints—each one a unique reflection of the special bond they share. The event provided an opportunity for students to step away from their studies, connect with one another, and enjoy a relaxing, hands-on activity. Pets were rewarded with Royal Canin treats for their artistic efforts, making it an engaging experience for both students and their companions.

Thank you to Royal Canin and VOICE for supporting this event and helping foster a sense of community while celebrating the individuality of every pet. 🐾

Students in the Introduction to Zoological Medicine elective recently visited the Raptor Conservation Alliance Medical Center, where they met with Director Betsy Finch for an immersive, hands-on learning experience.

During their tour, students gained insight into the most common reasons raptors are admitted for care and the specialized treatment and rehabilitation required to return them to the wild. They observed a young owl admitted after falling from its nest, assisted in examining another owl with a wing injury, and participated in banding an eagle preparing for release. Opportunities like this provide invaluable exposure to wildlife medicine and highlight the critical role veterinarians play in conservation and rehabilitation efforts.

Thank you to the team and Director Betsy Finch for sharing their expertise and dedication to raptor care!

First-year PPVM students participated in a hands-on equine handling and physical exam lab, building foundational skills in large animal medicine. During the lab, students practiced performing comprehensive physical exams on horses, including auscultation of the heart, lungs, and gastrointestinal tract. They also learned to identify key pulse points and assess capillary refill time—essential components of evaluating cardiovascular health.

Experiences like this provide students with valuable early exposure to equine patient care while reinforcing core clinical skills they will continue to develop throughout the curriculum.

Students in the Problem-Based Nutrition elective recently had the opportunity to tour the Instinct pet food production facility, gaining a behind-the-scenes look at how food is formulated and manufactured.

During the visit, students explored the production process including ingredient sourcing and safety protocols, all while learning how nutritional principles are applied in a real-world setting. Experiences like this provide valuable insight into the intersection of veterinary medicine, animal nutrition, and the pet food industry.