UF To Host “Animal Science Spotlight: The Power of Pets”

University of Findlay will host “Animal Science Spotlight: The Power of Pets,” a virtual event which will focus on pet care and the benefits of pet ownership, Tuesday, April 27 at 7:30 p.m. (EST).

The free event will be presented virtually via Zoom Meeting and is open to the public… and their pets!

“Pets are incredibly important to us in so many ways,” said Julie Klingler, director of the Wolfe Center for Alumni, Parents, and Friends. “During this event, we’ll take time to celebrate our pets and learn how humans can be as powerful in their lives and they are in ours.”

Pets not only provide companionship, but they often provide mood-boosting benefits that positively impact health. Dr. Michael Kerns, UF professor of animal science and staff veterinarian, noted that while he and his students work with larger livestock rather than household pets, he’s realized “exercise and animal contact are providing an uplifting attitude that brings smiles under all of the masks. It’s therapeutic and noticeable.”

Speakers will share highlights of UF’s Pre-Veterinary Medicine Program and cover best practices in caring for pets so they can best offer benefits to their owners.

Event speakers include:

• Brandon Forshey, D.V.M., UF assistant professor of animal science and director of pre-veterinary medicine
• Michael Kerns, D.V.M., UF professor of animal science and staff veterinarian
• Tod Beckett, D.V.M., medical director, VCA Mill Run Animal Hospital
• Gracie Goodman, UF pre-veterinary medicine student

In conjunction with The Power of Pets event, UF will hold a contest, “Share your Powerful Pet Story!” encouraging participants to share a heartfelt story on how pets have “paw-sitively” affected their lives. Stories and pictures can be submitted to alumni@findlay.edu. The winner will be announced during the webinar and will receive Oiler swag.

For more information or to register for the event, visit the Animal Science Spotlight: The Power of Pets webpage or contact the Wolfe Center for Alumni, Parents, and Friends at alumni@findlay.edu.