08/26/2026
We are resharing to include that we are offering this field trip to Cloverbuds now! Ages 5-18 can attend but we do need a parent to attend with kids ages 5, 6, and 7 years of age!
Register and get full details here:
https://registration.extension.illinois.edu/start/4-h-university-of-illinois-campus-field-trip-to-vet-med-open-house-1
Announcing a 4-H University of Illinois Campus Field Trip to the Vet Med Open House for Coles, Cumberland, Shelby, and Moultrie-Douglas 4-H Members Ages 5-18!
Join us for a day of discovery and animal-filled fun as the 2026 Open House at the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine transforms into Camp Vet Med.
We will follow the trail to more than 40 booths and demonstrations staffed by current veterinary students and discover the animals, science, and people behind veterinary medicine.
Inspired by the spirit of summer camp, Camp Vet Med invites visitors to unplug from their routines and experience a day of learning with family and friends. Along the way, you'll meet lots of animals, get hands-on with crafts and activities, and find out how veterinarians protect both animal and humans.
Camp Vet Med will highlight fields of veterinary medicine from anesthesiology to zoological medicine and veterinary student clubs devoted to business management, community medicine, and more. Young visitors will enjoy a scavenger hunt and crafts and facepainting at the Kids’ Tent. The Wildlife Medical Clinic, a student-run program that provides medical care for ill or injured wildlife, will introduce visitors to their ambassador animals. Other demonstrations include horseshoeing, rehabilitation for dogs and cats, and the Illini Service Dogs.
If you’re youth is considering a veterinary career, make tracks to the presentation veterinary school admissions. You’ll have a chance to ask questions of a panel of current students.
Whether you’re a lifelong animal lover, a budding scientist, or simply looking for a memorable adventure, Camp Vet Med has something for you. No camping gear required—just bring your enthusiasm for a day of learning and adventure!
For more information about the Open House, visit vetmed.illinois.edu/openhouse/
Here are our field trip details!
đź“… Date: Sunday, October 4, 2026
📍 Destination: University of Illinois, College of Veterinary Medicine
🚌 Transportation Schedule:
8:00 AM – Bus departs from Shelby County Extension Office, Shelbyville
8:40 AM – Bus departs from Cross County Mall Rural King, Mattoon
9:10 AM – Bus departs from Kirby Foods Grocery Store, Tuscola
🎤 Event Schedule:
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM Vet Med Open House in Groups
12:00 – 12:30 PM – Meet together to have lunch - bring a sack lunch / drink with you
12:30 – 2:30 PM – Continue Vet Med Open House in Groups
🚌 Drop-Off Schedule:
3:15 PM – Drop-off at Kirby Foods, Tuscola
4:15 PM – Drop-off at Shelby County 4-H Center
5:00 PM – Drop-off at Cross County Mall Rural King, Mattoon
âś… Register your youth at this link:
https://registration.extension.illinois.edu/start/4-h-university-of-illinois-campus-field-trip-to-vet-med-open-house-1
Deadline: Monday, September 28, 2026
Cost: FREE
Parent Attendance: Parents/guardians are welcome to attend if it would make their child more comfortable. Please indicate on the registration form if a parent/guardian will be joining.
All County 4-H Coordinators will be supervising the field trip. You can reach out to your County 4-H Coordinator if you have any questions!
Rachel Stenger - Moultrie-Douglas Counties: [email protected]
Yolanda Nation - Shelby County: [email protected]
Macey Maxey - Coles County: [email protected]
Melaina McMechan - Cumberland County: [email protected]
đź§Ą Preparation Tips:
Wear tennis shoes - We’ll be doing a lot of walking
Stay Hydrated: Bring a refillable water bottle or cash to grab a drink if needed. We will have a cooler of bottled water on the bus.
Bring a sack lunch!