Education
Veterinary Technology Program
The farm is an essential part of Portland Community College’s Veterinary Technology program. It is one of only two programs of its kind in Oregon, and only one of five in the Pacific Northwest. It is one of the few programs in the nation to provide students with experiential learning in a farm setting.
The farm’s staff cares for many of the program’s animals, manages the land, and provides meaningful work opportunities for students. In addition, students receive hands-on experience with farm animals in the following courses:
- VT 110, Specimen Collection Laboratory, first year students learn to collect both blood and fecal samples. They then use those samples to earn and perform necessary animal health screenings.
- VT 114, Domestic Animal Behavior, first year students observe and interact with animals to become familiar with animal behavior and training.
- In VT 121, Large Animal Nursing and Restraint, first-year Veterinary Technology students learn basic handling and husbandry of livestock, such as hoof trimming in sheep and proper placement of leg wraps on horses.
- In VT 209, Large Animal Diseases and Procedures, second-year students learn about large animal diseases and more in-depth husbandry procedures, such as limb radiography.
Goat kidding and cow calving seasons are a rewarding experience for Veterinary Technology students. They are involved in monitoring and assisting with the care of newborn goats and calves.
Community Education Classes
Community Education classes offered at the farm provide students with engaging, hands-on learning experiences. Previous classes have included Sheep and Goat Care and Introduction to Fiber Processing. Current offerings include Backyard Chickens for Beginners and Teen Farm Day Camp.
Interdisciplinary Collaboration with PCC Programs
Do you have an idea for enriching your course with farm activities or instruction? Contact Hailey Zweigart.