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Writer's pictureCaroline Farkas

Math at the Animal Hospital: Uncovering the Hidden Math Skills of Veterinarians

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In our latest STEM educationĀ video, we go behind the scenes at a real animal hospitalĀ to uncover the surprising ways vetsĀ use mathĀ every day. Get ready for a wild ride full of numbers, science, and cuddly creatures!


Watch the Video:



How Vets Use Math Every Day


  • Weighing and Measuring:Ā From tiny kittens to giant dogs, vets use scales to get precise measurements. This is crucial for calculating medication dosagesĀ and determining an animal's overall health.

  • Calculating Dosages:Ā Giving the right amount of medicine is essential! Vets use their math skillsĀ to calculate dosagesĀ based on an animal's weight, age, and the type of medication.

  • Converting Units:Ā Ā Pounds to kilograms, milliliters to ounces ā€“ vets are masters of conversion! They seamlessly switch between different units of measurementĀ to ensure accuracy and safety.

  • Monitoring Vital Signs:Ā Ā Heart rate, respiration, temperature ā€“ these numbers tell vets a lot about an animal's health. They use mathĀ to analyze these vital signsĀ and make informed decisions about treatment.

  • Reading X-rays and Ultrasounds:Ā Interpreting those fascinating images takes spatial reasoning and an understanding of scale and proportion.

  • Dentistry with a Math Twist:Ā Ā Even cleaning teeth involves math! Vets use measuring tools and calculations to ensure proper dental care for their patients.


Why This Matters for Kids (and Grown-Ups!)


This video isn't just for future veterinarians! It shows kids how mathĀ is used in a real-worldĀ profession that many of them are passionate about. By connecting mathĀ to animal care, we can help spark curiosity and make learning more engaging.


Key Takeaways


  • Math is Everywhere:Ā Even in places you might not expect, like the animal hospital!

  • Math is Essential:Ā Ā Accurate measurementsĀ and calculations are crucial for keeping animals healthy and safe.

  • Math Can Be Fun:Ā Ā Learning about mathĀ through the lens of animal careĀ can make it more exciting and relatable for kids.


Want More Math Fun?

Learning Standards Connection:


This video aligns with the following Common Core standards:


  • 4.MD.A.1: Know relative sizes of measurement units within one system of units.

  • 5.MD.A.1: Convert among different-sized standard measurement units within a given measurement system.

  • 5.NBT.A.4: Use place value understanding to round decimals to any place.


    Learn more about the Animal Hospital of Worthington at: https://www.animalhospitalofworthington.com/


A vet measuring the skin on a golden retreiver to show she uses math.

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