Dr Jenny Raffetto, Senior Lecturer in Equine Surgery at University of Melbourne, teaches student Tom about handling horses.
Photo by
Brendan McCarthy, Contributed
Future large‑animal veterinarians are gaining practical, hands‑on experience at the University of Melbourne’s Dookie campus, where first‑year veterinary medicine students are learning how to safely handle cattle, sheep and horses.
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The intensive program, running at Dookie since 2023, gives 160 first‑year students exposure to large‑animal handling under the guidance of university staff and local veterinarians.
Purpose‑built facilities at the campus, including upgraded cattle races and sheep teaching yards, support the practical focus of the training.
University of Melbourne Senior Lecturer in Equine Surgery Jenny Raffetto said the program helped ensure students started their studies on an equal footing.
“Our animal handling program ensures every student, regardless of their background before entering, has the opportunity to develop practical skills and build confidence with animals,” she said.
Dr Raffetto said learning how animals respond to human behaviour was a key lesson.
“Helping students understand how their own actions influence an animal’s response is one of my favourite parts of teaching.”
“It’s a lesson that extends to how we work with all animals and their owners.”
Shepparton cattle vet Dr Chris Nelson said it was great for students to get early hands-on experience.
Photo by
Brendan McCarthy, Contributed
First‑year student Marcus Lim said the experience challenged their expectations.
“Something surprising I learnt is that it's a lot safer than you think,” Marcus said.
“The animals are quite responsive so if you're alert and aware, it's quite safe.”
Shepparton cattle vet Chris Nelson said early exposure was crucial for building confidence and encouraging graduates into large‑animal careers.
“It's rewarding to see the confidence of students greatly improve through the program in handling and feeling safe around large animals,” Dr Nelson said.
The Dookie training program ran from March 23 to April 2.
