Veterinary Science
Is this event right for you?
You might enjoy this event if you:
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Are passionate about animal health and veterinary care.
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Enjoy hands-on tasks like identifying equipment, handling animals, and preparing for procedures.
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Want to explore careers in veterinary medicine or animal science.
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Prefer both a written knowledge test and a live skills demonstration.
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Value proper technique, safety, and ethical care for animals.
Event Details
Detail
Info
Health Professions Event
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​Solo competitor
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Written test – 50 multiple-choice questions, 60 minutes
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Skills demonstration (selected veterinary science procedures)
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Round 1: 60 minutes
Round 2: 3–8 minutes per skill (varies by skill)
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Highest Round 1 test score
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​Anatomy & physiology, nutrition, animal behavior, disease & prevention, zoonoses, clinical practice, emergency care/first aid, surgical principles, ethics/legal/safety
TYPE​​​
FORMAT​​​​​
​ROUND 1​​​
TIME LIMIT​
TIE BREAKER​
​ROUND 2
FOCUS AREAS
Topics on the Test
1. Anatomy and Physiology– 24%​​
2. Basic Nutrients– 10%​​​
3. Animal Behavior– 6%​​​​
4. Diseases / Disease Prevention– 14%​
5. Zoonoses– 6%​
6. Clinical Practice– 10%​
7. Emergency Care / First Aid– 12%​​
8. Principles of Surgery– 12%​
9. Ethical, Legal, and Safety– 6%​
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Study Materials & Practice
Key Official References:
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Lawhead, James & Baker. Introduction to Veterinary Science. Cengage Learning. Latest edition.
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Sirois, M. & Wortinger, A. Principles and Practice of Veterinary Technology. Elsevier. Latest edition.
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AAFP & ISFM Feline-Friendly Handling Guidelines — reference for Skill VII.
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Breed/Species identification resources (as posted 9/1/2023):
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Dogs — American Kennel Club (AKC) — www.akc.org
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Cats — The Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) — www.cfainc.org
Event Day Checklist:
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Photo ID for both rounds
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Two #2 pencils (non-mechanical) with erasers
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Sterile non-latex surgical gloves
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Exam non-latex gloves
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Professional business attire or official HOSA uniform (Round 1)
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Attire appropriate to veterinary settings (Round 2)
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Know the General Rules & Regulations
Tips from Previous Competitors
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