Young vet gets hands-on in Nepal

ASPIRING veterinary scientist Maddison Dodd is applying her tertiary learning somewhere far beyond the classroom.

The Federation University Bachelor of Veterinary Science student is on a study trip to Nepal and has been exposed to the techniques vets use in Kathmandu, the Gaurishankar Conservation Area, and Chitwan National Park.

She is also undertaking an internship at Nepal’s Biodiversity Conservation Centre.

“I want to learn as much as possible from the veterinarians here,” she said. “Our tasks will involve managing the health of domestic animals and tending to the wellbeing of wildlife.

“I have really enjoyed learning and trying out for myself the foot care done on Asian elephants.

“On a yearly basis, NTNC goes around to each of the working elephants and cares for and trims their nails. It has been very interesting to see what is done to help and prevent abscesses.

“I never would have thought I would be that close to an elephant, let alone trimming their nails.”

Ms Dodd said the highlight of the trip has been watching a radio monitoring collar be fitted on a “problematic” leopard.

“She is now a part of a PhD project,” she said. “Observing the veterinarians’ techniques and contrasting them with those of the clinic where I worked was fascinating.

“Everyone that I have met so far have all been so knowledgeable and passionate about their work.

“Also observing the veterinarians’ techniques and contrasting them with those of the clinic where I worked is very fascinating.”

Ms Dodd said she has dreamt of becoming a vet since she was a child and is keen to make a difference in the lives of animals.

“I first started volunteering at my local vet clinic in Porepunkah when I was just 13 years old and went on to stay there for five years until I moved for this course in Ballarat,” she said.

“Working with animals has always been a passion of mine as I have a genuine love for all animals, and stemming from that, I’ve always wanted to make a positive impact on their wellbeing and livelihood.

“Also, from experience with working with animals, I love to learn about individuals and their traits.

“All animals have personalities just like us, so I love to get to know them as much as I can.”

Ms Dodd said she was drawn to FedUni’s veterinary science course because, as a country person, she could remain in a regional area.

“This course offers me a variety of pathways I could take for future career directions, including the chance for postgraduate study to become a veterinarian in the future,” she said.