Veterinary Internship in Ecuador

What is the Veterinary Internship in Ecuador all about?

Join us on this veterinary internship in Ecuador and contribute to improving the welfare of wildlife whilst enhancing your CV / Resume.  Based in the Amazon rainforest this center has 4 hectares of land used for wildlife rescue, rehabilitation and release. This program provides a unique opportunity to actively contribute to the efforts of a wildlife refuge center, playing a key role in conserving Ecuador’s invaluable natural heritage. Interns will directly support the rehabilitation of animals with the goal of returning them to their natural habitats, guided by the expert assessments of the center’s veterinary team. 

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. 

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.  Activities may include:

• Evaluation of the wild animals’ status, for example; age, weight, diet, illnesses, etc. 
• Determine if the animal is ready for release.
• If the wild animal is a breed, provide a security space and have a special feeding.
• Clean the linens on the quarantine area, if the wild animal cannot have contact with individuals of the same species. 
• All new animals pass through quarantine when they enter the center and several tests are conducted during this time. This is done to provide a diagnosis of how the animals have arrived and treat them accordingly.  The length of the stay in quarantine depends on the species, the availability of cages, and the results of the exams. However, they all stay a minimum time of 20 days.

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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