Written by Jessica Kostuck, Associate Director, Development
The Scruffy Dog Salon at SLC Kingston campus is a venue for experiential learning for Veterinary Assistant students as they provide low-cost grooming services for dogs belonging to SLC community members and Kingston residents. Under the supervision of a certified Master Groomer, Veterinary Assistant students have the opportunity to practice techniques learned in their program, including ear, nail and coat care. These services are offered at a fraction of the cost of other providers in Kingston and are often met with generous gratuities.
Beginning in January, the Veterinary Assistant students and faculty have requested that in lieu of tips, that gestures of gratitude for Scruffy Dog Salon services be made in the form of a donation to the James Dunlop Memorial Award for Compassion to Animals.
James graduated from the Veterinary Assistant Program in 2015 and tragically passed away shortly thereafter. Throughout his life, James displayed extraordinary compassion towards animals large and small, and his legacy of caring and kindness is celebrated through the establishment of this award.
“The class of 2022 was consulted, and they thought it was a lovely gesture to make, and a nice way to acknowledge a graduating student for their outstanding work with animals. They particularly liked that this award would not be linked to grades but to the attitude and work ethics of the students, which some days means more than a number on a transcript” said Jill Cameron, Professor and Interim Program Coordinator, Vet Assistant Program.
The James Dunlop Memorial Award will be presented to a graduating Veterinary Assistant student each year at convocation. The recipient will be selected by a panel of faculty members for their exemplary compassion towards animals.
If you would like to book services at Scruffy Dog Salon, please email scruffydog@sl.on.ca, or call 613-544-5400 ext.1289. Gifts to the James Dunlop Memorial Award can be made at supportslc.com/scruffydog