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Girl Scouts tour Adobe Animal Hospital

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Doggies and kitties and girls! Oh my!

Nine- and 10-year-olds explored the workings of a veterinary hospital when Adobe Animal Hospital’s medical supervisor and veterinary technologist, Leah Larscheidt, led them on a tour.

“We take the students through all the rooms, from check-in to boarding,” said Larscheidt.

The girls, members of Ramona Girl Scout Troop No. 8496, participated in the tour as part of the requirement to earn a badge for their uniforms. They visited as if they were accompanying an animal coming to Adobe—from check-in to boarding facility and every room in between.

As the giggling youngsters crowded into the exam room, hands shot up at the offer to listen to Chucky’s heart. Chucky, the clinic’s resident cat, stood patiently on the exam table as each of the eight girls took turns using the stethoscope to listen for the oh-so-quiet “lub dub” of the kitty’s cardiac rhythm.

Going through the various sections of the animal hospital, the Scouts learned what happens behind the scenes when a beloved pet is brought to the doctor.

“My dog Cody was here before,” said one Scout.

“Yeah,” chimed in another. “Do you remember my dog Midnight?”

Larscheidt took time to answer all the questions— and there were many.

Though enthralled by the shiny tables, cages and oxygen chamber, the Scouts were particularly excited about the X-ray room. They jumped at the chance to wear the heavy lead aprons, gloves and other protective equipment Larscheidt demonstrated. Laughter echoed through the halls of the hospital as each girl donned the cumbersome garb.

Tours of various locations around Southern California allow Scouts to sample what it would be like to work in different environments. Scouting helps the girls build courage, confidence, leadership skills and lifelong friendships, said Debbie Dunaway, troop leader.

“We provide so many opportunities in a non-threatening environment,” she said. “It is so good for them and they always have a good time.”

Dunaway enjoys being a troop leader and encourages others to volunteer so that girls who are on waiting list to join a troop in Ramona have an opportunity to do so.

“It doesn’t take much to be a leader—and it is so rewarding,” she said. “Volunteer leaders get the privilege to witness the girls become all they can be.”

To become a Girl Scout leader, or for more information, contact ramonagsa.com or sdgirlscouts.org.

Girls interested in joining Girl Scouts may contact Kathy Hudson at 760-739-8268.

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