Veterinary Externship – Clinical Veterinary Medicine

Job Description

Veterinary Extern – General Practice | NVA General Practice

The Tone:
This is an externship at NVA General Practice, specifically at Southside Animal Hospital and Wellness Center, located in Anchorage, AK. NVA operates a network of hospitals dedicated to fostering supportive environments, committed to delivering excellent veterinary medicine, and providing exceptional service to animals and their devoted owners. This externship offers a unique opportunity for students to gain invaluable hands-on clinical experience and a comprehensive understanding of daily practice operations, which is critical for their professional development and future careers in veterinary medicine. It directly contributes to the continuity of high-quality animal care within the community.

The TL;DR
• Role: Externship
• Type: Temporary (ranging from two to eight weeks)
• Location: In-person, Anchorage, AK (Southside Animal Hospital and Wellness Center)

• Team: Works closely with a supervising veterinarian, interacting regularly with the medical team, support staff, and clients.
• Mission: To provide veterinary students with unique hands-on clinical experience and insights into daily practice operations, preparing them for a successful career in veterinary medicine while supporting the hospital’s commitment to excellent patient care.
• Tech Stack:

What You’ll Actually Do
• Patient Assessment: Develop and refine skills in gathering comprehensive patient histories and performing thorough physical examinations on a diverse range of animals.
• Treatment Planning & Diagnostics: Collaborate with experienced veterinarians to formulate effective treatment plans, interpret diagnostic results, and manage medical cases.
• Clinical Procedures: Gain practical experience in various clinical procedures, including dentistry services and medical management of patients under direct supervision.
• Surgical Involvement: Participate in surgical procedures by observing, assisting, or actively performing tasks as appropriate for your skill level and under the direct guidance of the supervising veterinarian.
• Professional Communication: Enhance vital communication skills by interacting with the medical team, support staff, and clients, ensuring clear and compassionate exchanges regarding patient care.

The Must-Haves
• Background: Doctorate Degree (in progress), Entry-Level. Must be a veterinary student in the final year of education, focusing on clinical aspects of veterinary medicine.
• Experience: Actively enrolled in the clinical portion of a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine program. Experience with veterinary practice operations through prior academic or practical exposure is beneficial.
• Skills: Proficiency in foundational veterinary clinical skills such as patient history taking, physical examination, understanding of diagnostics, and treatment plan conceptualization. Strong communication and teamwork abilities are essential for interacting with staff and clients.
• Bonus: A stated interest in pursuing veterinary practice in Alaska post-graduation will receive top priority consideration. Eligibility for a travel/living expense stipend is a plus for those in the clinical portion of their education. Candidates must hold a valid Alaska veterinary student permit (per 12 AAC 68.500 and 08.98.188) before the externship begins.