I would also like to say, as a graduate of University of California, Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, (now practicing in Va.) that many of my "techniques" were taught during my junior year surgery class. We had ample oportunities to "practice" on animals that the nearby shelter was due to euthanize, as well as spaying and neutering animals that would be placed for adoption. Thorough physical exams were given to all patients, catheters placed by students and all surgery and anesthesias were done in the presence of our Boarded surgeon on faculty at the Veterinary School. Still, I opted to do an internship at the veterinary school at Kansas State University, where I was under supervision but allowed to further hone my skills. This is an option for Va. Tech students as well. Most of these "for the petition" comments are made by faculty, staff and students of Va. Tech School of Vet. Medicine (or graduates there). Perhaps these students are not getting the exposure to surgery and experiences that I was lucky enough to have. Is there a way to change the curriculum so they can be taught by faculty at the veterinary school instead of the unknown entity of veterinarians who will oversee externships?