THE EXTERNSHIP PROGRAM

The externship program (previously known as the internship program) is a 27-day course that runs throughout the year except for December, January and February. You will accompany the veterinary and capture teams on every call-out, day or night! As an extern, you will be incorporated into the team at every level, from the practical side, to the general running of a wildlife veterinary practice in South Africa. The externships run concurrently with the Introduction to Conservation Medicine Courses, and you will also form part of the “Instructors Team” and help facilitate the student programs.

You will receive two theoretical assignments, each on a relevant topic to the practice. At the end of your stay, you will present your topics to the veterinarians and students. As we do not go out every single day, (highly unpredictable) the off times are used for completing the theoretical projects, conducting procedure reviews and assisting in preparation and planning for upcoming activities. If you are looking for a wildlife research project to meet academic requirements for your degree, please contact us because we may be able to combine this with an externship.

We suggest that you rent your own vehicle during your stay. This will allow you to be more flexible, so that if there is some quiet time, you can do some of your own exploring in the area (such as a game drive in the Kruger National Park).

As we are involved in many countries in Africa, you may have to travel with us, so come prepared for anything.

AMENITIES

The candidates stay in a separate facility on our farm, each in their own room with a small kitchenette and their own fire and barbeque area. The Intern Program is self-catering, and each candidate will be required to prepare their own food. “Town Runs” will be done occasionally for shopping.

QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED IN ORDER TO APPLY

  • Candidates must be a qualified veterinarian or veterinary student.

  • Candidates must have a particular interest in wildlife medicine and conservation.

  • Candidates must be comfortable with remote living and limited amenities.

  • Candidates must have a reasonable level of fitness and mobility.

  • Candidates must be proficient in English.

COST OF EXTERNSHIP

  • The cost for the externship is US$ 4 590.00 per slot. (Unfortunately, we do not offer discounts for a shorter stay.)

  • A non-refundable 50% deposit, (US $2295) will be required to book a slot.

  • Banking Details will be on your invoice.

  • The final outstanding balance of the course fees is to be paid 60 days before the start date of your course.

  • Should you cancel your trip 30 days or less before arrival, the final payment is not refundable.

INCLUDED :

  • Collection and Drop-Off at KMIA Airport or bus station

  • Daily cleaning of the room

  • Weekly change of linen and towels

  • WIFI

  • Wildlifevets.com scrub top to wear during field work

EXCLUDED :

  • Travel Costs to and from South Africa

  • Food and beverages

  • Laundry (Done off-site due to water constraints)

  • Any private excursions

If you are interested, we would like to hear from you.

Please send an email to vet3@wildlifevets.com and admin@wildlifevets.com along with:

  • Your CV

  • A short explanation of your interest in wildlife

  • Your preferred slots (3) in order of preference

Your application turn around period is 7 days. If you have not heard from us, you are welcome to follow up via email to vet2@wildlifevets.com or vet1@wildlifevets.com

WILDLIFEVETS.COM EXTERNSHIP ROSTER

There are ten externship slots in a year and In each of these slots we take a maximum of two candidates.

ARRIVE

02-MAR

30-MAR

27-APR

25-MAY

22-JUN

20-JUL

17-AUG

14-SEP

12-OCT

SLOT NR

Slot 1

Slot 2

Slot 3

Slot 4

Slot 5

Slot 6

Slot 7

Slot 8

Slot 9

2026

AVAIL:

Full

Full

2

Full

Full

Full

Full

Full

1

DEPART

29-MAR

26-APR

24-MAY

21-JUN

19-JUL

16-AUG

13-SEP

11-OCT

08-NOV