Project Summary

Come to La Paz to compliment your studies or work experience by participating in this exciting veterinary internship in Bolivia. The project is based at a zoo that is partnered with a leading zoo in the UK. The zoo is home to indigenous Bolivian wildlife as well as non-indigenous animals that have been rescued from homes and circuses. Birds, mammals, reptiles, and fish, such as condors and bears, receive high-quality care from the local veterinarian team under the guidance of the zoo’s director. Essential activities such as laboratory testing, nutritional enrichment and habitat development take place, but the zoo is in need of additional funding and support. Intern in Bolivia and apply your skills and knowledge in a hands-on setting that you have never experienced before!

Why choose this project?

This veterinary internship allows students and professionals to see how indigenous animals in Bolivia are cared for in a zoo setting. Interns are able to see a range of activities, which can help develop your CV/resume and consolidate your studies. Experienced veterinarians will enjoy being able to work alongside this professional team, gaining insight into the needs of indigenous animals in Bolivia and comparing how treatment strategies differ from those at home. The project benefits by having an extra pair of hands and being able to learn new strategies from the interns.

Role of the volunteer

During your veterinary internship, you will work with the animal enrichment coordinator and the professional veterinary team at the zoo. Your interests will be discussed with you to create your weekly activity plan. The main activities you may be involved with include:

• Monitoring of animal behaviours through observation
• Supporting local vets with clinical work, including monitoring and evaluation of clinical practices
• Assisting with nutrition-related activities, including enrichment preparation
• Assisting with physical and chemical restraint of animals, when necessary

Some potential study-related learning outcomes of this internship include:

• Ability to evaluate animal health up close and from afar
• Clinical examination skills and knowledge
• Basic understanding of forensic methodology in a wildlife context
• Wildlife psychology and well-being awareness, including meeting nutritional needs

During your internship, you will receive midway and final evaluations as well as support from the local team. You will be asked to complete a learning diary and to present a report about your experience to the project team at the end of your internship. Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to develop your passion for ecology and develop new skills.

Skills Required

Interns must either be undertaking veterinary/zoology studies or be a trained veterinarian to be considered for this placement. You must be a team player and open to learning from your colleagues. A good level of Spanish (level B1 Intermediate User of CEFR or better) is needed as the team speaks very little English. You will be asked for a CV/Resume and to attend a telephone interview to assess your suitability for the internship.

Please bring a laptop with you to complete your final report.

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