When the pups return to the campus for formal training at 15 months, the veterinary staff X-rays their hips and joints, check their eyes and heartbeats, and give them complete physical exams including vaccinations and heartworm tests. Our veterinarians then spay or neuter those pups who haven't already had the procedure and are not being considered for breeding. While the new team is in class, the veterinarians meet with the students and provide medical histories on their individual dogs as well as vaccination updates. Breeding stock, dogs in training and foster care, and some working guides are cared for by our clinic staff. Staff also provide consultations with graduates and outside veterinarians regarding the care of our puppies and guides.
Veterinary staff are on call when emergency care is needed.
They also do a variety of routine procedures such as teeth cleaning and extractions, as well as perform a spectrum of surgical procedures. Endoscopy, for example, is used to retrieve foreign objects, remove tumors or foxtails, and help remedy chronic conditions such as coughing, sneezing, vomiting or diarrhea.