Veterinary School Mock Interview
Master 54 Veterinary School interview questions covering clinical experience, animal ethics, and your commitment to veterinary medicine.
Question 12 of 54
What is your opinion on using live animals to practice surgery?
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Ryan Brown created and launched MockQuestions in 2008.
This question is asking for your opinion, therefore it is recommended that prior to interview you research into laws that surround the use of live animals in schools, so that you have an understanding of the subject nature and outcomes. While there is no wrong or right answer here, considering the use of animals for study no longer happens, it is recommended to answer in favor of this change.
Ryan Brown created and launched MockQuestions in 2008.
"I disagree with the use of live animals for study programmes and fully support the changes to the academic system to prevent this from happening. I believe that the use of synthetic materials and simulations is a far better method as it allows students to learn at their own pace with the ability to repeat a procedure as often as needed, and this eliminates the need for animals to be used"
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Anonymous Answer
I think that it is a great thing that many vet schools in the US are looking for alternatives for the use of live animals or at least reduction in terminal surgeries. I think it is important to look into other options, such as having students work alongside vets on real surgical cases and other nonanimal models such as virtual simulators. I feel it is possible to reduce animal use in practice surgery, but with current technology, we can't eliminate animal use yet.
Rachelle's Feedback
Your answer provides many alternatives that are very do-able, yet you also show reason by including that we aren't 100% there yet. Good balance in your response!
Anonymous Answer
I do not believe that vets should practice surgery on live animals. I believe that there are more beneficial and ethical ways of gaining practice. For example, surgery simulator technology can be used which would allows you to practise the surgery multiple times to perfect your technique, something that cannot be done with live animals. The technology also allows the user to find different ways of carrying out the same procedure and this may be beneficial for your learning.
Rachelle's Feedback
Your opinion is strong and very compelling. It's clear that you have performed research on this topic. I recommend changing the 'You' wording to make it more personalized. I have provided an example below.
"I do not believe that live animals should be used to practice surgery as there are more beneficial and ethical ways of doing so. For example, a surgeon simulator technology can be used, which would allow me, as a student, to practice the surgery multiple times to perfect my technique, something that cannot be done with live animals. With a surgery simulator, I would also be able to attempt and discover different ways of carrying out the same procedure, which will diversify my learning."
Anonymous Answer
I think that with the technology and innovations available now which can replicate the anatomy of an animal, there is no need to use live animals to practice surgery. Also, animals which aren't live could be used. I can understand how this is a very beneficial way to learn; however, I don't think it is worth the expense of the animal suffering when there are alternatives.
Rachelle's Feedback
Good! Your response is very thoughtful, and it shows that you have an up-to-date understanding of available veterinary learning tools.
Anonymous Answer
I believe that using live animals to practice surgery completely contradicts the purpose of being a veterinarian. This is because vets have a duty to protect animals from suffering and pain, but using them to practice surgery does the opposite. Instead, it inflicts suffering and pain. This is why the use of sophisticated simulators or simple devices such as suture boards is more appropriate. It does not involve the mistreatment of animals in which we should be protecting.
Rachelle's Feedback
I like that you take a strong stance on what you believe while also showcasing a viable alternative. Very well said!
Anonymous Answer
As the RCVS code of conduct states, animal welfare should always be the number one consideration of the veterinarian. Considering this, I think it is vital that the animal's welfare is respected when practising surgery. However, I think it is critical to practice on live animals to enable future veterinarians to ensure their future patients have the best treatment possible and it will, in turn, allow them to be confident in ensuring the best animal welfare. Although it is important to note that the use of live animals should be avoided if there are other methods available, such as the use of synthetic materials. In conclusion, I think the use of live animals is not only acceptable but essential where necessary, as long as their welfare is prioritised.
Rachelle's Feedback
It's good that you mentioned the RCVS code of conduct, as this shows that you bring a strong knowledge of this topic and legislation. You bring up some important points, and your answer shows balanced thinking.
Anonymous Answer
I believe using live animals to practice for surgery is acceptable. As long as all parties have full disclosure and the student is well prepared and has veterinary supervision in case of emergency, then it is a beneficial opportunity for a student.
Rachelle's Feedback
Your answer is straightforward and shows that you have a comfort level with these upcoming learning scenarios. If the school you are applying to offers learning tools in the form of simulations, I recommend adding in a comment regarding the technology advancements available for hands-on learning without using live animals.
Anonymous Answer
In some instances, using live animals to practice surgery may be necessary; however, this is unfavorable. With the advancement of technology, I believe there are other viable options. The use of virtual simulations allows for repeated experience and practice. It is exciting to see a reduction in the number of live animals being used, and hopefully, we will be able to eliminate the need in the future.
Rachelle's Feedback
Your approach is excellent! You show an understanding of how things are now while focusing on the fact that there are exciting advancements in the works. You sound very positive - good work.
Anonymous Answer
Allowing veterinary students to practice surgery is valuable to their education. While using live animals to practice these surgeries is practical and allows for real-world situations, simulations and models can allow students to obtain a similar experience. Thus, I think it is great that veterinary schools are looking into alternative options for practicing surgeries.
Marcie's Feedback
Great answer! You remain relatively neutral and suggest a possible alternative that doesn't involve live animals, which is great, but you also acknowledge that it is extremely helpful for veterinarian students to be able to practice surgery in a realistic setting. Nice job.
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