Chris Carpenter’s mission: Inspiring the next generation of veterinarians

In this episode of Bourbon with Brenda, Brenda Andresen sits down with Chris Carpenter, DVM, MBA, the founder of Vet Set Go, to explore how he is helping shape the future of veterinary medicine. Chris shares the story behind Vet Set Go, a program dedicated to nurturing the dreams of aspiring veterinarians from a young age. Listen for these highlights:

• Early passion for veterinary medicine: Many veterinarians decide on their career path before the age of 12. However, Chris noticed that many young enthusiasts struggle to gain hands-on experience due to age restrictions at shelters and clinics.
• Breaking barriers: Chris wanted to knock down these barriers and provide middle-schoolers with opportunities to explore their interest in animal care. Vet Set Go connects kids with veterinary clinics, allowing them to gain real-world experience early on.
• Mentorship and shadowing: By shadowing veterinarians, young students gain practical experience and confidence in their abilities. These early experiences can help sustain interest in the profession through high school and beyond.
• Innovative tools for aspiring vets: The Vet Set Go app serves as a resource for students to track their volunteer hours, find shadowing opportunities, and connect with veterinary clinics nationwide. This tool is helping to create a national directory of shadowing locations, making it easier for kids to find opportunities near them.
• Impact on the veterinary community: Beyond benefiting students, mentoring young aspiring vets can also rejuvenate seasoned professionals. Engaging with passionate youngsters can help veterinarians reconnect with the reasons they entered the field in the first place, ultimately fostering a sense of community and fulfillment within the profession.

Tune in to this inspiring episode to learn how Vet Set Go is making a difference in the lives of young veterinary enthusiasts and the broader veterinary community.