On Wednesday, March 13th, Dr. Michael Giacopuzzi, DVM  (nicknamed Dr. Mike), gave a speech from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. to Ventura County 4-H'ers.  Dr. Mike was born in 1951 and has been serving Ventura County pet owners for over 25 years as the owner of Humphrey, Giacopuzzi & Associates Equine Hospital, and he has been the head veterinarian for the Ventura County Fair.

The Briggs, Loma Vista, Conejo/Simi Valley, Santa Rosa Valley (SRV), Somis, Mupu, Sespe, and Chief Peak 4-H Clubs all had club members and leaders present at the event. This event was hosted by the Large Livestock Program Development Committee (PDC). 

Dr. Mike and three people from his veterinary clinic came to speak about how to ensure that your large animal is ready for the 2019 Ventura County Fair in August, the rules and procedures for their clinic, and how they have helped local 4-H, FFA (Future Farmers of America), and Grange Youth Clubs over the years.

Dr. Mike's team speaks to the huge crowd

The veterinary team spoke at the University of California Hansen Agricultural Resource and Extension Center (UC HAREC) at 287 S Briggs Road in Santa Paula. The team gave their presentation in the Large Barn.  Many 4-H members and leaders were eager to see the presentation. There were approximately 115 4-H members and leaders present at the event to catch a glimpse of the iconic Dr. Mike. There were so many people in attendance, the room ran out of chairs, so there was only standing room available at the end of the evening.

Everyone who attended the event immensely appreciates that Dr. Mike and his staff took the time from their busy schedules to come out to educate the 4-H youth about large livestock care and veterinary medicine. The time and effort that the Large Livestock PDC put in to organize and host this event is also very much appreciated. Last but not least, the event would have not have been a success without Mrs. Virginia H. Reyes (the Briggs 4-H  Club Co-Leader, and the PDC Chair for the Large Livestock Planning Development Committee).  The event was an enjoyable and educational experience for all those who attended.