Earlier in the month, we attended a wonderful open house put on by the Veterinary School at the University of Georgia. This is an annual event, so we definitely plan to go back next year. I took Eli after school, but there was so much to learn that I plan to take him out of school for the next open house.
Eli and an elephant skull...
It was a great opportunity to learn more about animals through preserved specimens, x-rays, and the like.
We ran out of time and didn't get to go in, but they had a Teddy Bear Clinic where kids got to put on scrubs and see how the vets take care of animals. Stuffed animals were the patients.
In addition to tours of the school and clinic buildings, there was a large outdoor section with live animals. Experts were on hand to answer kids' questions.
On one large, dark-colored horse, they used white washable paint to show where his bones are underneath his skin and muscles. Brilliant!
It's not everyday you see a bison on campus.
...or a zebra either! (Stripes vs. stripes!)
One of our favorites was a Syrian brown bear cub that was on a leash.
One Mama's Two Cents:
This free event was definitely worth the drive into Athens, even on a busy Friday afternoon. We parked at the softball stadium and caught a UGA bus, which made getting there easier. Eli loved the bus ride almost as much as the event itself! The bus does, however, naturally require some waiting and we had to leave before we were ready just to be sure we didn't miss the last bus. As for the event itself, there was quite a bit of walking involved. It was fine for us, but younger kids might need a stroller.
Definitely two thumbs up!
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