Dozens of stuffed animals are now healthier after visiting the Teddy Bear Hospital at Black Hawk College.
The second annual event brought 57 children to the East Campus to get checkups for their favorite stuffed animals and learn about careers in the veterinary industry.
The hospital included stations for weight check, X-rays, bandaging, heart rate, pharmacy and surgery, all done by 19 students in the BHC Veterinary Technology Program.
“The Teddy Bear Hospital is a unique experience for children, blending imagination and medical care in a real veterinary hospital setting,” said Dr. Colleen Lewis, lead veterinarian for the BHC Veterinary Technology Program.
“As the children and their families moved through the six stations, they learned a lot about how we care for pets behind the scenes, and it was easy to see their nerves melt away,” she said.
The free event was in partnership with the Kewanee Animal Shelter. Children and their families brought items such as dog treats, cat treats, paper towels, bleach and garbage bags to donate to the shelter as well as generous cash donations.
The BHC Veterinary Technology Program is accepting applications for Fall 2024 and will host an open house Friday, Feb. 23 from 1-4 p.m.
