Public has opportunity to see behind the scenes of veterinary medicine

The University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine will welcome the public back for its popular Open House for the first time since 2019 on Saturday, April 11, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The free, family-friendly event will be held rain or shine on the University of Tennessee agricultural campus on Neyland Drive.

The Open House offers a behind-the-scenes look at veterinary education and the work being done to improve animal and human health. Visitors can enjoy self-guided tours, hands-on activities, and opportunities to learn about veterinary medicine and animal care. No registration is required.

Children are encouraged to bring their stuffed animals to the Teddy Bear Clinic, where veterinary students will perform fun “checkups” while teaching young guests about animal health. Visitors can also learn about physical rehabilitation and explore exhibits on small animal medicine, large animal medicine, and community organizations.

A perennial favorite, the anatomy laboratory will be open for viewing and will feature skeletons and preserved specimens used in veterinary education.

Parades of canine and equine breeds are scheduled, and guests can learn about a variety of farm animals. The Knoxville Police Department’s Mounted Patrol Unit is expected to be on-site at 12:30 p.m.

Only registered service animals are allowed at the event. Please do not bring pets.

The veterinary open house is held each year to better acquaint the public with veterinary medicine and services provided at the UT College of Veterinary Medicine, which was established in 1974. Visit https://vetmed.tennessee.edu/OpenHouse/ or call 865-974-7377 for additional information.