The University of Illinois at Chicago has introduced veterinary students to the practice of laboratory animal medicine through elective clinical rotations for 20+ years.  Veterinary students participate in veterinary, technical, and research activities in three service areas: small animal colony, large animal and primate colonies, and experimental surgery.  Students work closely with the veterinary and husbandry staff to learn laboratory animal medicine and management.  During the externship, hands-on activities may include performing medical treatments, sample collection, physical examination, interpretation of diagnostic tests, management of clinical cases, anesthesia and surgical training, dental procedures, environmental enrichment strategies, operant training methods, and mouse bre