McNeal students learn about animal care

First-grade children at McNeal Elementary School squealed in excitement Oct. 26 as veterinarian Dr. Steven Pepper, of the Fruitville Veterinary Clinic, brought birds, lizards and dogs to teach the children about work as doctor of animals.

Pepper talked with students about proper animal care and also demonstrated how veterinarians check the health of their patients.

"(As a veterinarian) you make a contribution to an animal's health, and that contributes to human health," Pepper said. "Events like this) show what we do, and maybe one of (the children) will pursue (this) profession later on."

Pepper is the grandfather of first-grade student McNeal Chris Ducharme. Chris's mother, Jennifer Ducharme, a vet technician, also assisted with Wednesday's presentation.

Contact Pam Eubanks at [email protected].