MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Veterinary students at Kansas State University are going on the road to care for shelter animals.

A new mobile unit will start heading out to shelters next month. The university says students are projected to perform 2,800 to 3,500 spay/neuter procedures in the first year.

Agreements have already been established to provide services for nonprofit and municipal animal shelters in Manhattan, Junction City, Ottawa, Emporia, Topeka, Lawrence, Salina and Clay Center.

The university says most shelter organizations in Kansas don’t have a veterinarian on staff or on-site surgical facilities.

Assistant clinical professor Brad Crauer says students will develop a strong appreciation for the magnitude of the homeless pet population. He says working in the mobile unit will prepare them to volunteer and advocate for shelters in their communities after graduation.