Adults with disabilities help at Pet Care Academy

MONROE – Adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities can gain workforce skills at South Piedmont Community College’s new Pet Care Academy thanks to a partnership with Pressly Animal Hospital.

South Piedmont’s Compass Education program allows adults with disabilities to build math, reading, writing and interpersonal skills needed to continue their education and gain employment. After completing basic classes, students can enroll in a learning academy to further advance their skills. 

The college has long offered a Food Service Academy. Now the college is offering a Pet Care Academy.

“Many of our students are interested in working with animals,” said Nikki Myers, director of Compass Education. “We saw the creation of this academy as a great chance to respond to student interest, partner with a local employer and expand opportunities for our students.”

Students at Pet Care Academy will learn to help care for animals in a retail setting. They’ll learn about animal behavior, grooming techniques, handling/restraining of animals, customer service and recordkeeping. Much of the program is hands-on.

Pressly Animal Hospital jumped at the chance to assist students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. 

“The owner, Dr. William Pressly, has a special needs child as well,” said Kristina Simmons, the animal hospital’s practice manager. “He is fully aware of how capable these young adults are. He knows the importance of partnership with different organizations to help develop the minds and inspire the talents that they possess.”

Simmons said participants in the Pet Care Academy will get unique experiences as they work alongside the practice’s veterinarians.

“Students will be able to assist the veterinary medical team,” she said. “During their time at the hospital, they will learn about pet behavior, proper leashing techniques, and safe handling and restraint methods. Students will understand the importance of a clean, sanitized environment. The students will also spend some time with our front desk team. They will learn basic skills of client service. The students will acquire the knowledge of how to be personable, confident and engage in effective client communication.”

Simmons also hopes the students learn something about themselves.

“I hope this gives them the self-confidence and awareness that they can do whatever they put their minds to,” she said.