The Purdue Veterinary Medicine Open House
Saturday, April 18, 2026
10:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. EST
The PVM Open House is free and open to everyone! We look forward to seeing you there!
The Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine hosts an Open House each year during Spring Fest to educate the public on all of the different aspects of veterinary medicine. The mission of Purdue Veterinary Medicine (also known as PVM) is to "advance global animal and human health and well-being through excellence in learning, discovery, and engagement." This is emphasized in the multitude of events held each year during PVM’s Open House.
Location
The Purdue Veterinary Medicine Open House is held at Purdue University's Charles J. Lynn Hall of Veterinary Medicine, 625 Harrison Street, West Lafayette, IN 47907.
Events include:
Demonstrations
- Watch a live process of a typical spaying of a female animal with guidance at each step.
- Come watch a highly talented Police Canine show you the daily tasks they perform in their role.
- Step in on one of the multiple Physical Therapy demonstrations from our Small Animal Physical Rehabiliation service in their state of the art facility.
- Equine Treadmill at our Equine Sports Medicine Center.
Anatomy Balooza with our First Year Veterinary Students
- Step into the world of veterinary medicine with hands-on anatomy bone matching, histology coloring, radiography and ultrasound demos, plus fun prizes for participating. Perfect for curious future vets of all ages!
Learn about the -Ologies with our Second Year Veterinary Students
- Learn what can harm your pets! Veterinary students will showcase all the -ologies they learn about in their second year. Explore the microscopic world of veterinary medicine!
View real slides on microscopes and the big screen, see demos in toxicology, parasitology, pathology, and hematology, play hands-on games, and don’t forget a treat on your way out.
Get Ready to be a Surgeon with our Third Year Veterinary Students
- Learn the ins and outs of surgery with the third-year veterinary students including proper cleaning and sanitation measures to prepare you and your patients for surgery! Learn skills like suturing, and endoscopes!
Children will even get a chance to put on a surgeon's attire.
Indiana State Fair 4-H Winners
- See the Veterinary Science posters and projects displayed by the state 4-H winners.
Petting Zoo
- Meet and interact with friendly farm animals in a fun, hands-on experience for all ages. Come say hello, learn about animal care, and enjoy some furry cuddles!
You will even have the opportunity to meet Purdue's farm animals.
Canine Educator Program
- Learn about our Canine Educator program that aids veterinary and veterinary technician students in the fundamentals of canine medicine, and say hello to some of the amazing Canine Educators.
Shelter Medicine
- Join us for a fun and meaningful event supporting animals in need. You’ll learn about the mission of Priority 4 Paws and how you can make a difference for local shelter pets. Meet and greet some of our adorable furry friends. Help create enrichment toys to keep shelter animals happy and stimulated. Discover simple ways to support animal welfare in your community.
Outdoor Events
- Grab a bite to eat from the Equine and Food Animal Clubs, stationed outside in a tent serving burgers, hot dogs, and sides (vegetarian options available).
- Explore equine anatomy in a fun, visual way as important bones, muscles, and structures are illustrated directly on a horse.
- Learn about ruminant digestion by seeing a cannulated cow and discovering how veterinarians and researchers study the rumen to improve animal health and nutrition.
- Take a peek inside a fully equipped mobile veterinary unit and see the tools large-animal veterinarians use to provide on-farm care
Veterinary Technology
- Meet our Veterinary Technology students and learn about our #1 ranked program! There will be interactive activities to learn about the important jobs of all veterinary team members. Our veterinary technicians will teach you how to properly bandage an animal's limb when injured.
They also have fun new surprises for their 50th Birthday Party of the program!
Learn About PVM's Various Clubs including:
Don't forget your Graduation Day Card
Families and children are invited to pick up a Graduation Day card at the Welcome Table and visit the various clubs and events, collecting stamps as they go. Once the card is completed, children can receive their diploma and graduation photo at the information booth, along with a special prize!
