Teaching Hospital participates in national service animal eye exam event

Thursday, June 13, 2024

Media Contact: Kinsey Reed | Communications Specialist | 405-744-6740 | kinsey.reed@okstate.edu

Each May, the American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists holds a national service animal eye exam event. The philanthropic event provides free ocular screening exams for qualified service and working animals during May.

The program benefits formally trained service animals.

The Oklahoma State University Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital chose to participate in the event. This year, clinical assistant professors and veterinary ophthalmologists Dr. Emily McCool and Dr. Katelyn Fentiman saw 20 service and working dogs.

“It is a great privilege to be able to provide exams for these animals that selflessly care for individuals and their community,” McCool said. “It's always fun to see the animals we get to check each year and meet new service and working animals as there are more organizations and individuals who are aware of this event.”

Across the U.S., over 8,000 free eye examine are performed every year in May. The program wouldn't be successful without the generosity of board-certified ACVO diplomates who donate their time, staff and resources to serving dogs.   

“Dr. Fentiman and I always enjoy participating in this event, and we are grateful for the support from the American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists, Epicur, and the OSU Veterinary Teaching Hospital to make this a successful event each year,” McCool said.