Veterinary Internships Abroad

Why Veterinary Internship?

Veterinary internships offer hands-on experience in a setting that enhances practical skills and professional development and enriches veterinary education.

During an internship, individuals work alongside experienced veterinarians, gain exposure to medical cases, surgical procedures, and diagnostics.

Additionally, internships serve as a bridge to future employment, allowing interns to establish professional networks, gain references, and, gain insights into the field.

Why Veterinary Internships Abroad?

 

Veterinary internships abroad offer the chance to learn and experience the global world of veterinary practice.

Gain a different perspective of veterinary practice

• Veterinary internships abroad provide the opportunity to work with different animal species, conditions, and medical practices that may not be encountered in one's home country.

 

Develop communication skills

• Interning abroad enhances communication skills by interacting with diverse clients and colleagues. Interns learn to adapt to different work environments, and navigate various healthcare systems.

 

Develop a network

• Working in an international setting allows interns to build a global professional network, connect with veterinary experts in other countries, which can lead to future job opportunities or collaborations.

 

Where to Look for Veterinary Internships Abroad? 

 

Starting points are exploring university career services and veterinary departments, as they often have international partnerships or exchange programs.

Global organizations offering internships

• Students can research global organizations like the Federation of Asian Veterinary Associations, the World Veterinary Association (WVA), and the Federation of Veterinarians of Europe. Students can research global regional veterinary bodies as well, which may list internship opportunities globally.

Contact clinics, hospitals, organizations directly

• Reaching out directly to veterinary clinics, animal hospitals, wildlife organizations, or conservation projects can provide valuable opportunities, particularly in Australia, New Zealand, the UK, and Africa.

Focus on NGOs

• Focus on nonprofit organizations in animal welfare or wildlife conservation. Some of them collaborate with platforms such as RealStep.

 

Eligibility for Veterinary Internships Abroad 

Educational requirements

• Most veterinary internships abroad require applicants to be in the final year of veterinary school or have already graduated with a veterinary degree. Some programs may accept students in earlier years, but this is less common.

 

Language proficiency

• Depending on the country, internships may require proficiency in the local language. For example, if the internship is in a Spanish-speaking country, knowledge of Spanish may be necessary for effective communication with clients and staff.

 

Visa

• International interns typically need a valid visa or work authorization for the country where the internship is based.

 

Medical requirements

• Certain countries may require proof of vaccinations or medical check-ups to ensure interns are fit for travel and work in the local environment, especially if the internship involves handling animals with specific health risks.

 

Veterinary Internships Abroad with RealStep

 

Veterinary Internships in Ecuador: Animal Shelter

This veterinary internship program is in Ecuador. It takes place in an animal shelter located in the heart of the Amazonian forest in Puyo. The centre collects animals abused, orphaned or rescued from illegal trade in Ecuador. It is a unique opportunity to work with experts while exploring wild species from the Amazon rainforest. 

Veterinary Internships in South Africa: Reserve

This veterinary internship takes place in South Africa with our partner NGO. Interns are supervised by experts and benefit from in-depth feedback throughout the project. Students join a multicultural team and work on a reserve contributing to the protection of the region’s wildlife daily.

 

Veterinary Internships in Argentina: Horse Shelter

This veterinary internship program with horses takes place in Argentina. “The Horse Shelter” in Córdoba welcomes abandoned and abused animals. In Córdoba, it is common to use horses to collect recyclable waste in the streets, such as cardboard and plastic. This work is usually done by people who do not have the resources to take care for the horses. 

Veterinary Internship in Sri Lanka: Dog Shelter

Veterinary interships program in Sri Lanka  offers a way to participate in an animal welfare project in a dog shelter. Interns help improve the cohabitation between dogs and the local community to reduce the number of stray dogs. The animal care internship allows students to acquire real skills in the animal sector. 

 

Animal Internships Abroad with RealStep

Wildlife internship in Thailand: Elephant Sanctuary

In the province of Chiang Mai, in Thailand, an elephant sanctuary welcomes international students for their wild animal training internship. Elephants are rescued from tourist activities, and placed in a refuge where they are cared for and can live in a natural environment.

Discover more about animal internships by RealStep here.

Or even explore animal gap year options here.

 

What are the Challenges of Veterinary Internships Abroad? 

 

Language Barriers

• Adapting to a new cultural environment and communicating with local clients and staff can be challenging, especially in countries with different languages and customs.

 

Different Veterinary Practices

• Veterinary practices, protocols, and resources can vary significantly from one country to another. Interns may face challenges adjusting to methodologies, equipment, and approaches to animal care.