Pre-Veterinary Internship in South Africa

What is the Pre-Veterinary Internship in South Africa all about?

Develop your interests and studies in a veterinary science or animal welfare by participating in this pre-veterinary internship in South Africa headed by an experienced and qualified zoologist. You will be able to develop your practical skills and knowledge by working alongside local wildlife experts in 3 different settings; with African wildlife on game reserves, with livestock on farms and domestic animals in rural villages and townships. It really is a varied placement and you will have the opportunity to be exposed to large and small animals living from mice to monkeys in various locations, from the bush to the home.

The nature of the work is demand driven as veterinarians and wildlife experts respond to their needs. Animal welfare is of primary importance and where possible human intervention is avoided, especially with game wildlife as these animals can often be unpredictable and dangerous. In South Africa, domestic animals are not always treated very well and it is a high priority to raise the profile of good practices and this projects links with top animal welfare agencies such as SPCA. Join this placement and develop your skills and knowledge of conservation and animal management while assisting with the important issue of animal welfare in South Africa.

Why choose this Pre-Veterinary Internship?

Being an intern in South Africa is a fantastic opportunity for you to gain a much better understanding of issues facing a range of animals from big to small, domestic to wild. Working alongside local experts you will discover how veterinary practice is approached in South Africa and the treatments available. You will also understand how domestic animals have a much tougher time than they often do in other countries. The local teams will enjoy sharing stories and insights into your experiences, so it is a great opportunity for cultural exchange. In addition, the animals will benefit from having an extra pair of hands to support them.

Role of the Pre-Veterinary Intern

The Internship

During the pre-veterinary placement, you will work in three distinct areas. The opportunity for you to participate in a range of activities exists, but please note that due to the nature of working with wildlife, that each element is not guaranteed but you will certainly gain an all round perspective and knowledge of key issues relating to animals, both big and small, domesticated and wild. In all placements you will learn about:

• health and safety
• animal management and handling of animals
• animal behaviour
• animal health and nutrition
• ecosystem support and biodiversity preservation

Additional encounters may include:

• Wildlife – immobilisation, and tranquillisation of animals, game capture, threats to wildlife, toxic and venomous animals, exotic pets and healthcare
• livestock – immobilisation, tranquillisation, and artificial insemination 
• domestic animals – community support services, understanding animal management in South Africa, immobilisation, tranquillisation, inoculation, and wound care

All interns and volunteers are expected to undertake a learning assignment and present this to your colleagues during your placement. Bring your laptop to help you to do this.

What skills do I need to be a Pre-Veterinary Intern in South Africa?

The placement is available for students considering a career in veterinary science, or first-year vet students who are looking for a different experience. A full CV/Resume will be requested upon application and you will be asked to attend a telephone interview to assess your suitability for the placement, as well as your learning goals. If your placement is for university credit it is important that you make us aware of this so that we can discuss this with the local team, to see if your needs match what is possible at the time of your placement. Interns are expected to be able to live under a variety of conditions, be flexible and hardworking.

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