BIG CATS GET HELPING HAND FROM PIMA MEDICAL INSTITUTE

Colorado Springs, CO - Veterinarian Assistant Program Students Assist With Fundraiser

Big Cats of Serenity Springs, a federally and state-licensed big cat rescue facility near Colorado Springs, received a helping hand from Veterinarian Assistant Program students at Pima Medical Institute, 370 Printers Parkway in Colorado Springs. One of PMI’s students, Hayley Booth, donated artwork that was auctioned off at their recent fundraiser on June 17 th.

A tour of the facility is a regular field trip for PMI’s Veterinarian Assistant Program. According to Kim Parker, veterinary assistant instructor for PMI in Colorado Springs, the information the students gain from the experience furthers their knowledge on the care and plight of big cats, as well as promote the efforts of the unique refuge that serves a safe, stable and permanent home for non domestic felines such as lions, tiger, cougars, ligers, bobcats, lynx, leopards and servals.

When Big Cats of Serenity Springs completes their medical facility, PMI Veterinarian Assistant students will also have the rare opportunity to complete externships at the site.

“Big Cats of Serenity Springs is the home of some of the most majestic animals known to man,” said Parker. “Our students are very fortunate to have the opportunity to assist with their efforts and gain valuable experience working with these magnificent animals.”

Graduates of the 26.5 credit-hour Veterinary Assistant Program are trained to perform as an entry-level veterinary assistant. Emphasis is placed on small animal techniques. The materials covered include: anatomy/physiology and pharmacology as it applies to animals, assisting in surgery and anesthesia, and medical terminology. Veterinary nursing techniques are covered in depth. Classes are 31 weeks in length and total 720 hours of training. Graduates of this program are granted a certificate.

PMI is one of the premiere medical vocational institutes in the western United States . The privately owned, accredited school provides students with a well-rounded education embracing theoretical classroom studies, as well as on-site training at medical facilities that mirror the working environment they will pursue after graduation.

PMI has been serving students since 1972, with campuses in: Albuquerque , New Mexico ; Mesa , AZ ; Chula Vista , CA , Seattle , WA ; Las Vegas , NV ; as well as Colorado Springs and Denver . Additional information is available by calling their toll free number, 888-442-5998 or online at http://www.pmi.edu.