MISSISSIPPI STATE -- Students at Mississippi State University's College of Veterinary Medicine are throwing a birthday party as their college turns the big 3-0.

The students, faculty and staff will host the 20th annual open house April 2 and 3 at the Wise Center, located on the south side of campus off Spring Street. The theme of the open house is "Celebrating a 30-Year Heritage and Continuing Tradition of Service." 2004 marks 30 years since the Mississippi Legislature established the MSU College of Veterinary Medicine.

While thousands of young children have been attracted to the event, open house offers an ideal opportunity for older students exploring careers in veterinary medicine. On schedule for the open house are a petting zoo, tours of the hospital complex and educational exhibits. CVM faculty and students will be on hand to answer questions about health care for large and small animals.

Dog demonstrations will take place as well as a special show of different breeds. Two canine events are scheduled for the second day of the open house: the canine Frisbee competition and a one-mile walk/run event with dogs and their human companions.

Draft horse and hoof care demonstrations are scheduled each day. Visitors will be able to watch horse exhibitions including pole bending, barrels and jumping. Young and old alike enjoy the "Circle of Life" presentation which celebrates the differences and similarities of animals from each ecosystem.

Open house begins at 8:30 a.m. and ends at 3:30 p.m. both days. Admission is free. For more information, call the CVM Office of Special Programs at (662) 325-1326.

Contact: Tara Puckett, (662) 325-1326