The real story from Scotland this week – dogs are selecting the next generation of vets Nicola Sturgeon? Independence? Brexit? The future of our centuries old kingdom? No. These are not the most important news stories […]

Nicola Sturgeon? Independence? Brexit? The future of our centuries old kingdom?

No. These are not the most important news stories coming out of Scotland this week.

A family of fox red labradors have been hard at work, helping to select the next generation of the country’s vets.

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Dad Simba, mother Tia and puppy Fern were part of an interview panel that ‘vetted’ veterinary students at Edinburgh Napier University.

Intuitive skills

The canine family were set loose among the students while university staff assessed their ability to interact with animals.

The academics say this is a vital skill for students to learn before they take up the job full-time.

“Having dogs present in interviews, in particular good quality Labradors, tests the aptitude of potential students for dealing with animals,” Jodie Smith, lecturer and programme recruitment officer, said.

“Their presence also helps the assessors hone in on candidates’ intuitive skills for working with dogs, which make up a large proportion of the patients in any veterinary practice.

‘An authentic setting for vets’

The dogs moved amongst the group during a discussion exercise and received hugs and claps from the keener students vying for a place on the BSc (Hons) vet nursing programme.

“Each year we have very tough competition for places on the programme,” Smith added.

“Incorporating dogs into the selection procedure allows applicants to display their skills in an authentic setting and greatly helps the decision-making process.”

If only all future decisions could be made using the wisdom of dogs…