Veterinary teaching hospitals provide clinical training but the welfare of patient animals in teaching contexts requires careful management of the student learning-animal welfare balance.
Animals who receive care at veterinary teaching hospitals benefit from access to specialist expertise and advanced diagnostics, but also bear costs from the teaching function. Multiple student examinations, less efficient procedures, and extended handling for educational purposes add welfare burdens to already unwell animals. Progressive veterinary schools are integrating simulation and consent-based teaching approaches that respect animal patient welfare as a primary consideration alongside educational outcomes.