While I fully understand the importance of direct experience as part of the education of veterinarians, I strongly object to my pet -- whom I have entrusted to a licenced veterinarian -- being instead treated, without my knowledge or consent, by a trainee or student vet.

When student teachers have their field experiences, they are not simply handed a class full of kids and told to have at it. They are coached, supervised, and directly observed throughout the process.  Why should not our pets and animals have the same sort of protection while in the care of our veterinarians as our children do while in the care of their teachers?

Specifically: I expect that *any* time my pet is to be treated by *anyone* but a licenced veterinarian, I will be notified, and that any time a serious procedure is to be performed, I give my consent before it begins.