Overview

Experience a unique veterinary internship that combines hands-on experience with meaningful contributions to animal welfare in the picturesque landscapes of South Africa. Ideal for pre-vet and veterinary students, this program offers a diverse range of work experiences, allowing you to make a tangible impact on the well-being of various animals. There is also a 2nd and 3rd intensive available too.

 

 

Apply – read more here

Internship Highlights:

Wildlife Conservation:

  • Work alongside a local vet in game reserves, caring for a range of wildlife including rhino, buffalo, lions, antelope, and zebra.
  • Participate in activities such as immobilization, tranquilization, game capture, and animal management to contribute to biodiversity preservation.

Agricultural Livestock Care:

  • Engage with beef and dairy cattle, sheep, goats, pigs, and chickens, gaining practical experience in animal health, nutrition, and overall management.

Community Outreach:

  • Collaborate with local veterinary clinics in rural villages and townships, providing essential care for domestic pets like dogs and cats.

Internship Roles

During your pre-veterinary internship, you will engage in a diverse array of tasks, contributing to the well-being of animals across farms, reserves, and clinics. Your responsibilities may include:

  • Anti-Parasite Protocols: Administering anti-parasite treatments through methods such as dipping and dosing to ensure the health of animals.
  • Wound Management: Providing care for wounds, offering crucial support for animals in need of medical attention.
  • Community Education Initiatives: Conducting educational outreach in local communities, imparting knowledge on the proper handling and treatment of pets and animals.
  • On-Site Animal Treatment: Delivering medical care to animals within the community, addressing health issues and promoting animal welfare.
  • Vet Clinic Apprenticeship: Shadowing a veterinarian in a local clinic, gaining hands-on experience and insights into the daily operations of a veterinary practice.
  • Reproductive Health Procedures: Participating in tasks such as pregnancy testing and artificial insemination in livestock to contribute to effective breeding practices.
  • Disease Management: Engaging in disease control measures to safeguard the health of animals within the community.
  • Wildlife Conservation Activities: Participating in game counts, darting procedures, and immobilization/tranquilization techniques to support wildlife conservation efforts.
  • Health and Safety Protocols: Adhering to health and safety guidelines to ensure a secure environment for both animals and humans.
  • Game Capture and Transportation: Involvement in game capture operations, including sedation and transportation, contributing to the preservation of diverse wildlife.

Throughout these tasks, you may encounter animals in distress or those that have been neglected. This hands-on experience will expose you to South Africa’s animal welfare landscape, offering insights into the challenges faced by organizations like the SPCA. Expect a dynamic and impactful internship that not only enhances your veterinary skills but also fosters a deep understanding of animal welfare in diverse contexts.

Quick Facts

  • 2 – 12 weeks pre-veterinary students
  • Specialised course run 3 times a year for veterinary 2nd and 3rd students
  • Available starting most Mondays throughout the year
  • 18+ years for solo travellers
  • Prices start from £2299 for two weeks including accommodation, food and transfers to the site near the coastal town of Chintsa

Testimonial – read more here

“My time overseas was amazing! I was able to learn so much from this experience and I met a lot of great people with whom I still keep in touch. I am indeed missing my time in South Africa because it was a really nice experience: it was a good balance between work and fun time. Highlights include the lion vasectomy, all the great people and the work experience. I would recommend people go for at least 3 weeks to learn the most!!” Chiara 4 weeks.

Apply – read more here.