From a Beef Cattle Ranch in South Dakota, Katie Forrest Reports
Katie Forrest, NC State College of Veterinary Medicine Class of 2027, is a Raleigh, North Carolina, native and a Food Animal Scholar. This summer, she is spending eight weeks at Prairie View Veterinary Clinic in South Dakota.
WEEK 2
My summer with Dr. April Schilder in South Dakota continues to be an incredible hands-on experience in food animal medicine. Over the past few weeks, I’ve worked extensively with beef cattle — placing Controlled Internal Drug Release devices, performing breeding soundness exams and working cow-calf pairs where I’ve branded, vaccinated, castrated and run the chute.
One highlight was helping at the Fort Pierre Sale Barn’s Annual Sale, where we worked over 1,600 head in a single day. At one farm, I assisted in placing bull trackers that provide producers with valuable data on mounting activity, health alerts and location — an exciting intersection of technology and herd management.
Beyond cattle, I’ve also gained small animal experience by assisting with spays and placing a drain in a dog with a puncture wound. One of the most intense moments so far was assisting Dr. Schilder with a fetotomy to save a cow during a difficult birth while on call.
Outside the clinic, I’ve enjoyed connecting with the local agricultural community — attending the Annual Prime Time Gala hosted by South Dakota’s Cattlemen Foundation and joining a dinner with Elanco representatives, where I had the chance to meet Dr. Jeremi Wurtz, a beef cattle technical expert.
This summer continues to deepen my clinical skills and broaden my understanding of rural veterinary practice, and I’m excited for all that’s still to come!
WEEK 1
This summer, I’m thrilled to be working with Dr. April Schilder, a beef cattle veterinarian and producer in South Dakota. Living with her family on their ranch has given me a unique opportunity to experience both veterinary practice and daily life as a producer. In just one week, I’ve assisted with breeding soundness exams, castrations, artificial insemination, laceration repairs, a uterine prolapse and even an elk dystocia (or difficult labor) — an unforgettable experience!
Outside the clinic, I’ve helped with my first cattle drive, planted in the garden, cheered at the kids’ baseball games and connected with members of the local community. Dr. Schilder’s dual role as veterinarian and producer is teaching me how to approach food animal medicine with practical, production-minded solutions.
I’m excited to bring this knowledge back to North Carolina to better serve the producers in my home state with insight, efficiency and a deep respect for their work.
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