subject: Go Wild In Africa With Veterinary Work Experience [print this page] If you have a passion for working with animals and want to increase your repertoire of skills, then consider gaining some valuable veterinary work experience on one of the many projects offered in Africa. Whether you want to start a career in veterinary medicine, need a relevant career break or are looking to embark on a worthwhile gap year, there is a project out there for you.
What the projects include
The advantages of participating in one of the projects or courses in Africa are clear when the diversity of skills and exposure to different practices are considered. A lot of the work is hands-on and field based and involves shadowing one of the many experts engaged in the projects. This is undoubtedly the best way to increase experience and gain confidence in this fascinating environment.
Much of the work focuses on the survival of endangered species, which involves game capturing and monitoring. Extensive research is consequently carried out and expertise surrounding the survival of these precious animals is enhanced as a result. Relocating animals is often necessary and therefore in-depth knowledge of entire eco-systems and conservation issues are taught and explored.
Africa is not only about wild animals; local people use domestic animals to carry out necessary work in the fields and villages. Livestock is also an extremely important part of rural life here and the very existence of many small towns and villages depends on it. Working to protect livestock and the working animals from disease is essential in so many communities in Africa, so ensuring the recognition of disease and administration of appropriate drugs is also focussed on.
While much work is carried out in the field, clinical veterinary work bears great emphasis. Participants are encouraged to make decisions and confidently react to different and unfamiliar situations. Exposure to unusual problems and treatments is imperative in acquiring as much veterinary work experience as possible.
Getting involved
Days can be long and tiring and you need to be adaptable and willing to get involved whenever necessary. Free time is generally in the evenings, but if you are required to help with an emergency then it is expected that you will. Every moment is packed with exciting challenges and new experiences that you wont want to miss. The rewards of working with these incredible animals are many.
Reputable companies offering veterinary work experience take a great deal of pride in their projects. Projects are monitored and audited and often run in conjunction with local conservation initiatives. While there is normally a fee, it is generally to cover costs and not aimed at huge profits. The aim of these projects is to give the best service and offer the greatest opportunities to enrich veterinary work experience and allow participants to get the most from their time away. Embarking on one of these worthwhile projects in such a diverse and unique environment will get you noticed and stand out in any job application.
