MCC vet tech students to hold dog wash fundraiser
by Margaret Hurlbert
March 08, 2023

MUSCATINE, Iowa–This year, spring cleaning can extend to your furry friends. Anyone with dogs who could use a spring spruce up can take advantage of the Muscatine Community College Student Chapter of the National Veterinary Technicians of America’s upcoming dog washing fundraiser March 26 at the Canine Activity Center (902 South Houser Street in Muscatine) from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

An organization for student studying for careers as veterinary technicians, the Student Chapter of the National Veterinary Technicians of America at Muscatine Community College offers many opportunities each year. These include trips to two major professional development conferences each year with lodging and registration paid for, as well as additional field trips. Fundraising efforts also allow the group to provide supplies for the program when needs arise. Because Muscatine Community College’s chapter belongs to the larger national organization, students who would like to continue their education may also apply for scholarships.

To make all these opportunities possible, veterinary technician students hold events, such as their dog wash, to raise necessary funds. A staple event since Muscatine Community College started their veterinary technician program, student advisor Liz Cromer has found it very successful. “Dog washes give the students opportunities to engage with the community, practice basic grooming skills, and learn how to work cooperatively as a team.”

Students in Muscatine Community College’s veterinary technician program. Photo courtesy Muscatine Community College Student Chapter of the National Veterinary Technicians of America.

Open to dogs of all sizes, the students will offer baths and blow dries to all comers. People may request ear cleanings and nail trims as well. The students will accept any freewill donations participants choose to make. They suggest donating $30 for washing a large dog, $25 for a medium dog, and $20 for a small dog, as well as $10 donations for addon services or $15 for those who just want an ear cleaning or nail trim. In order for dogs to receive services, owners must provide proof of up to date distemper, parvo, and rabies vaccinations.

More than just a great way to support the student veterinary technicians in their studies and give area dogs good baths, Cromer loves that the event brings visibility to the veterinary technician program at Muscatine Community College and gets the community excited about what its students do. “The dog wash is always a great opportunity to educate the general public about veterinary technicians, the two-year program that Muscatine Community College offers, and our chapter,” she said. “The students get to engage with the community, their dogs, and have a fun time doing it.”

With more time outside just ahead and people and their pets wanting to look their best after the long winter, Cromer encourages dog owners to take advantage of the dog wash fundraiser and to support aspiring veterinary technicians along the way. “It’s the best time of the year to get your dog washed, nails trimmed, and ears
cleaned at reasonable recommended donations!” she emphasized. “We are happy to provide these services in an efficient manner and appreciate the support to continue to take our students to continuing education conferences to broaden their knowledge and skills before they head into the veterinary profession.”

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