The Humane Society of El Paso
ABC Externship Facility

In the past few months Animal Behavior College has been fortunate enough to spark a wonderful partnership with The Humane Society of El Paso. This facility is a very large sanctuary with 100 kennels containing approximately 174 animals. In addition, their foster program cares for 50 to 75 animals off-site, and continues to grow. The veterinarian on staff, Dr. Flossi, sees at least 30 patients per day. He and his staff mainly treat dogs and cats, but occasionally see rats, pigs and donkeys. Their main goal is to find these animals a loving home. They are committed to pairing these pets with families that share this same passion.

The Humane Society of El Paso recognizes the importance of hands-on training when entering any career in the animal industry. They believe that this portion of the ABC program helps students make an informed decision on what further avenues they would like to explore in this field. Dr. Flossi says, “It is important that students have this experience and can then decide if this is the right field for them. In our facility, it is about learning the highs and lows of animal rescue. We want them to know it is important that veterinary professionals see themselves as educators to the public on animal welfare.”

ABC students have been described as “energetic” and “passionate” volunteers. They have shown the staff at the humane society that they have a strong desire to learn and serve the animals and the community. Although ABC has only recently started working with the shelter, 5 students have already been sent there to complete their externship. In fact, the first ABC student has since been hired as a Volunteer Coordinator. The students from ABC are always on the top of the list when they are in need of a new staff member. The staff feels that our relationship has been a positive one because they have gained a new employee and dedicated volunteers.

The staff also believes that the first step to gaining experience, skills, and knowledge, is by putting the student to work! The repetition of tasks and guidance provided by the humane society employees help the students feel confident in their abilities in this ever changing and exciting field. In their opinion, The Humane Society of El Paso believes that ABC is a great place to start if you are looking to pursue a career as a veterinary assistant.

ABC looks forward to having a long standing relationship with The Humane Society of El Paso. This is a wonderful facility that has already opened many doors for ABC students, and hopefully there will be more to come!

4991 Fred Wilson Ave., El Paso, Texas 79906, (915) 532-6971, www.hselpaso.org.

ABC Veterinary Hospital
ABC Externship Facility

In 2010, Animal Behavior College began a partnership with ABC Veterinary Hospital in San Diego, California. The school was fortunate enough to connect with Patty, the hospital administrator for the three veterinary hospitals owned by Dr. Michael Weber, who was eager to participate in the Animal Behavior College Veterinary Assistant Mentor Program. This trio of mentoring hospitals is located in Kearny Mesa, Pacific Beach, and Uptown.

All three facilities are a two doctor practice with a staff of generally 4-8 members. They primarily see cats and dogs; however, Dr. Weber has worked with a variety of farm animals in past and still sees them from time to time. He has worked hard to establish facilities that have “…a compassionate, knowledgeable and professional staff that utilizes the foremost technological advances and implements the latest medical practices” whose goal it is “…to educate and involve clients in a lifetime health care plan for their special companions.” The ABC veterinary staff values the bond between the pet and their owner and is committed to fostering that relationship in any way they can.

From the beginning, Animal Behavior College students have always been welcomed at their respective facilities, from the moment they start their externship hours until they complete them. Each facility receives between 20-40 patients a day so Animal Behavior College students are exposed to diverse veterinary cases. ABC Veterinary Hospital expects volunteer students to take initiative and be very proactive during their externship. Students must be ready to jump in to help out in any way possible and not be afraid to get a “little dirty.” Patty voiced that she, Dr. Weber, and the rest of the staff have a passion for helping animals get well and enjoy sharing that passion with Animal Behavior College students.

The staff at ABC Veterinary Hospital feels it is important for students starting out in the veterinary field to have on the job experience to prepare themselves for what’s ahead. At the hospital, they gain exposure to a variety of medical situations while working alongside different members of staff including the front staff, technicians and doctors. They would highly recommend the Animal Behavior College Veterinary Assistant program to anyone interested in a career in the veterinary field and hope to continue to inspire and teach our students.

2032 Hornblend St. San Diego, CA. 92109, (858) 270-4120, www.abcvets.com
8020 Ronson Rd. San Diego, CA. 92111, (858) 278-1825, www.abcvets.com
4054 Normal St. San Diego, CA. 92103, (619) 299-6020, www.abcvets.com