Holiday reindeer get veterinary checkups at Reindeer Express

Before flying around the world, Santa’s reindeer will receive health checks in a holiday event organized by the Utah State University College of Veterinary Medicine.

The event will take place at the USU Equestrian Center on Friday, Dec. 2. There will be two sessions: the first will be from 3:45-5:15 p.m., and the second will be from 5:45-7:15 p.m. Tickets can be purchased by visiting vetmed.usu.edu/reindeer-express. 

The idea for the Reindeer Express was created by Michael Bishop, the director of academic and student services for the college. Bishop said the event helps educate the public on the veterinary medicine program at USU.

“It was to promote the profession, promote the school,” Bishop said. 

Bishop also said the event helps “build and inspire the next generation of veterinarians.”  

“Most people who make it into our program self-identify very early,” Bishop said. “Like at the age of five or six, they want to be veterinarians. That kind of fits this demographic.” 

Juan Jimenez, student recruiter and event coordinator, is in charge of planning the Reindeer Express this year.   

“People should come to help express the spirit of Christmas,” Jimenez said. “Yes, this event is to showcase the vet students, but is really about the children. Opening up their eyes to Santa’s reindeer, they too, need help. And they can help them in the future.”  

Jimenez said there will be many activities and booths for kids to participate in, including the Be-A-Vet program’s scavenger hunt, creating a personalized “elf name,” a stuffed animal surgery to showcase what vets do, a sleigh ride, a performance by the Cache Children’s Choir, various animals, letters to Santa and many independent clubs coming with their own activities.  

“They actually had over 3,000 people the first or second year that they did it,” Jimenez said. “I’m just excited that it’s back, honestly. It’s been on a hiatus because of the coronavirus. And I’m grateful that I have the opportunity to be involved.” 

Dr. Isaac Bott will be Santa’s head reindeer veterinarian for the event.  

“We’re so fortunate to have reindeer,” Jimenez said. “It’s thanks to Dr. Bott — he’s so gracious and willing to lend his reindeer.” The Reindeer Express is run by student volunteers from all USU colleges. While most of the volunteer spaces are filled, they are still looking for more help.   

“It takes about 150 volunteers to run the event,” Bishop said.  

Bishop said his favorite memory from the Reindeer Express was when Dr. Rusty Stott, a professor in animal, dairy and veterinary sciences, hummed the heartbeat of a reindeer for the audience to hear during a health check. Instead of humming a regular heartbeat, Stott hummed a Christmas jingle.  

“He was like, ‘Oh, this reindeer is Christmas through and through,’” Bishop said. “It was just one of those magical moments that wasn’t scripted.” 

Bishop said this event is supposed to create a calm and thoughtful yet festive and cheerful atmosphere.  

“I hope that if they come, they will find joy in those simple traditions like carolers and sleigh riding,” Bishop said. “It’s an opportunity to just enjoy the calmer spirit of the season. Enjoy the moment.”