UC Blue Ash College Hosts Dental Days for Pets in Need

March 26, 2013 – Students in the Veterinary Technology program at the University of Cincinnati Blue Ash College are providing much-needed dental care for the pets of low-income families. The Dental Days program is part of a collaboration between the college and Pets in Need, a nonprofit organization that provides income-qualified families with access to free or discounted veterinary care for their pets.   

Along with helping families in need, the Dental Days events give students in the vet tech program the opportunity to participate in providing teeth cleanings and teeth removal on dogs and cats that are brought in by their owners.

“We see the need for a lot of dental care, particularly in older animals,” said Dr. Jennifer Wells, a veterinarian who is chairwoman of the vet tech program at UC Blue Ash. “We provide the animals with dental cleanings and, if indicated, oral X-rays and tooth extractions.”

The Vet Tech program hosts up to four Dental Days events each year, and sophomore veterinary technology students also provide preventive medical care to Pets in Need patients throughout the school year.

“The Dental Days would not be possible with out the generous support from the Banfield Charitable Trust. They donated funds to purchase two new veterinary dental machines and additional equipment necessary for addressing these animals’ dental health needs,” said Dr. Wells. She also thanked Dr. Beatriz Woodall, owner of the Banfield Hospital in Mason for donating her time and expertise during the special events. “Our students truly appreciate the opportunity to learn from someone who is sharing her extensive knowledge in veterinary dentistry.”

Veterinary Technology is the art and science of providing health care to animals and professional support to veterinarians. Graduates of the program gain expertise in nearly all aspects of veterinary care, including nursing procedures; anesthesiology; radiography; surgical preparation and assisting; and anatomy and physiology.

The Veterinary Technology program at UC Blue Ash graduates approximately 36 students each year. As part of the graduation requirements, students must have extensive hands-on experience treating animals.  

UC Blue Ash College is a regional college that is part of the nationally recognized University of Cincinnati. It offers one of the best values in higher education with access to a UC education in more than 60 programs and degrees. The college is located on a scenic 135-acre wooded campus in the heart of Blue Ash, Ohio. To learn more, call (513) 745-5600, visit us online at www.ucblueash.edu, like us on Facebook, or follow us on Twitter.