I am absolutely appalled by this proposed change.  If the 4th year program is poor, revamp it. Don't just trash it and allow these students to treat our pets as guineapigs.  I knoiw they need some hands-on experience, but this change is too extreme and risky, unless, of courser, they have already been doing this against policy (that is the rumor).  It is one thing for them to assist a vet on a case and work with them, but another situation altogether inappropriate is to function as if vet school  is completed.  It would be somewhat unethical and questiionable.  I see many signatures oif those still in vet school who want this change.  They should not have a say in this because they are probably motivated by their desire to move on without finishing their studies.  The young generally over estimate their abilities and readiness because they are young and unrealistic....this observation from one who was a teacher for 40 years and has seen it.