Veterinary Internship in Ecuador

What is the Veterinary Internship in Ecuador all about?

Join us as on this veterinary internship in Ecuador and contribute to improving the welfare of wildlife while positively developing your CV / Resume.  Based in the Amazon rainforest this center has 4 hectares of land used for wildlife rescue, rehabilitation and release.  In addition there are a further 70 hectares that have been utilized for release.  Founded in 2006 by a local family, they work alongside the Ministry of the Environment and the Environmental Police to implement effective change. The Wildlife is rescued often after experiencing abuse or having been trafficked nationality or regionally.  The project staff treat animals using both modern and homeopathic medicines.

Work at the sanctuary undertaken by a local team and a resident veterinarian, includes treatment, nutrition, release and monitoring of species. The sanctuary is home to 200 animals including parrots, monkeys, turtles, wild cats, capybaras, caymans, and many more mammals and birds.  It is open to the public and school groups to generate much needed income but the main focus is protection and rescue of species.  Join us in Ecuador and gain first hand experience of practices being taken to positively impact these animals. Read more about the project by reading our blog Volunteering in the Amazon Rainforest in Ecuador.

Why choose this Veterinary Internship programme in Ecuador?

As a veterinary, animal science or biology student you will gain hands on experience that supports aspects of your course.  You will see a range of areas such as physiology, pharmacology, anaesthesiology, clinical pathology and more.  The centre benefits by receiving interns who have knowledge and some training in areas that relate directly to the animals.  Taking care of rescued animals is a time consuming task and your help will be appreciated by the community and beyond.

Role of the Conservation Intern

You will have the opportunity to develop a range of skills and knowledge on this internship.  Activities vary depending on the needs of the animals and sanctuary at the time of your placement.  You will have the opportunity to develop your skills in skills in many areas, all whilst based in an international setting.  Activities may include:

• application of preventative  treatments including homeopathic medicines
• nutrition and feeding plans appropriate for local species
• reintroduction of animals to their natural habitats and monitoring their progress post release
• testing of animals going through quarantine
• research projects (depending on the length, time and needs at the time of  your placement)

Learning outcomes may include:

• understanding of the application of medicines to wild animals and the role of homeopathy
• diagnostics including skin samples, bloods,  stool samples etc)
• nutrition
• surgery and the appropriate use of medication and equipment
• habitats of a range of species – what is suitable and the factors necessary to take into account when releasing trafficked or rescued animals back into the wild (e.g. use of camera traps, nets etc)

If you work hard and help where needed you will make the most out of this exciting internship.

What skills do I need to be a Veterinary intern?

This internship is great for undergraduate and graduate students, with a focus on animal science, zoology, or veterinary studies. You must have a good understanding of biology and physiology of the animals at the center. You will work with others so teamwork and good communication skills are important.  Proficiency in Spanish (level B1 Intermediate User of CEFR) is highly recommended for this project as you will be working alongside local people. However, beginner learners can also be considered. You will receive feedback about your placement from your supervisor.  Please bring a laptop to record your progress during your internship placement and to prepare your end of placement presentation.  

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