Volunteer Opportunities – Veterinary
Please note that it is commonly accepted practice to walk into a veterinary facility with a resume in hand and tell the veterinarian that you are pre-vet and would like to gain some experience – you are encouraged to do so. (Make sure you tell the veterinarian you arrange to work for that you will want a formal evaluation for veterinary school at the end of your experience.)
Local Opportunities
Visit LocalVets.com to find veterinary clinics in your area.
Animal Friends of the Valley
https://animalfriendsofthevalleys.com/become-a-volunteer/
29001 Bastron St.
Lake Elsinore, California 92531-1143
Animal Friends of the Valley promotes the human care of animals through education and a humane, proactive animal control program. They are committed to prevent suffering of animals and to end pet overpopulation. Volunteers can work directly with the animals in the shelters or at adoption events. Fill out an application online.
Aquarium of the Pacific
100 Aquarium Way
Long Beach, CA 90802
https://www.aquariumofpacific.org/volunteer
Internships at the Aquarium of the Pacific are geared towards college students and recent graduates who are interested in playing a direct role in ensuring our oceans are vital and healthy for generations to come. Internships are typically offered in the fall, spring and summer and they accept applications year round. All applicants should be organized, self motivated, and have excellent people skills. All internship positions are on a voluntary basis only. Housing and transportation is the responsibility of the candidate. Applications can be found online.
California Wildlife Center
P.O. Box 2022
Malibu, CA 90265
https://cawildlife.org/volunteer/
California Wildlife Center takes responsibility for the protection of native wildlife through rehabilitation, education, and conservation. It is dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of native California species, who otherwise would be left to suffer from the effects of human encroachment, habitat destruction and environmental damage. It’s core work is the rescue and rehabilitation of sick, injured and orphaned native wildlife, supported by state-of-the-art animal care and rehabilitation facilities, a cadre of professionally-trained staff, dedicated volunteers and an engaged community.
Cats In Need of Human Care
https://www.catsinneed.com/
Cats In Need of Human Care is a non-profit, no-kill, cat rescue and adoption organization in Southern California. They are known for holding adoption shows at PETsMART stores in Riverside, San Bernardino, Orange and L.A. Counties. If the adoption doesn’t work out for any reason, with no time limit, Cats In Need will take a cat back. They need volunteers for adoption shows, fostering, animal care and socializing, fundraising, advertising.
Hancock Park Veterinary Clinic
5178 Wilshire Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90036
Phone: 323-905-7155
https://www.hancockparkvetclinic.com/
At Hancock Park Veterinary Clinic in Los Angeles, CA, we believe that preventative care is the best way to keep your pet healthy and happy. Preventative care improves your pet’s quality of life and helps your pet avoid life threatening or quality of life decreasing conditions. Below are just a few of the preventative services we offer.
The Inland Valley Humane Society
500 Humane Way
Pomona, CA 91766
https://www.ivhsspca.org/
The ultimate goal for volunteers is to acquire a well-rounded education concerning pet care, pet responsibility and pet overpopulation. Volunteer opportunities include: socializer/exerciser and mobile adoption unit. The Socializer/Exerciser position is a popular, flexible and important area for all volunteers to start with. Opportunities in this field include socializing dogs and cats, walking dogs, helping the public, and interacting with the kennel staff. The Mobile Adoption Unit entails a monthly volunteer unit that takes pre-selected adoptable animals to pre-approved locations for adoption purposes. This program heightens public awareness concerning animal care and responsible pet ownership. Fill out an application on their website and mail it to their office.
The Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens
5333 Zoo Drive,
Los Angeles, CA 90027
https://www.lazoo.org/volunteer/
The Los Angeles Zoo has a variety of volunteer opportunities ranging from office work to assisting Animal Keepers. There is a general orientation for volunteers held two-three times a year which is mandatory. Volunteers must also complete a two-week training course, submit to fingerprinting and give an interview. The time commitment for each position varies for different volunteers, but can range from six hours per week to a hundred hours per year. Volunteer positions include: Docent Program (educating the public), Keeper/Animal Care, General Volunteers, Community Service, and Animal Healthcare. Each program has different prerequisites so please check the website for more information about specific programs. Applications are available for download online.
On their website, they also mention that you can accumulate animal care experience by contacting any of the following places:
Planet Rehab: Animal Sanctuary
Animal Care Specialist Volunteers
2745 W Dalepark Dr. San Dimas, CA 91773
https://www.planetrehab.org/index.html
Planet Rehab is a grassroots not-for-profit organization seeking not only to raise awareness as to the truly desperate plight of this planet that we call home, but make a difference in protecting and restoring the natural resources that are all too swiftly being depleted.
Wildlife Waystation
14831 Little Tunjunga Canyon Road
Angeles National Forest, California 91342-5999
https://www.wildlifewaystation.org/
The Wildlife Waystation, situated on 160 acres in California’s Angeles National Forest, is internationally recognized for its ongoing, charitable efforts to rescue and rehabilitate wild and exotic animals. Their mission is to rescue, rehabilitate, relocate, and provide sanctuary to wild and exotic animals from around the world, as well as native wildlife. Volunteer applications can be downloaded from their website. Volunteers must commit to a minimum of eight hours per month.
Non-Local, In-State
Marine Mammal Care Center
3601 S. Gaffey St. (at Leavenworth Drive)
San Pedro, Ca 90731
(310) 548-5677
This “hospital” for the sick and injured seals and sea lions provides public viewing of their rehabilitation. There are frequently as many as 40-50 animals being cared for at a given time. The Care Center also features exhibits and educational information on marine mammals in addition to a gift shop with a great selection of souvenirs for everyone! All gift shop sales and donations directly benefit the Care Center. Call for information on volunteer oppertunities.
Oakland Zoo – Zookeeper Intern Program
9777 Golf Links Rd
Oakland, CA 94605-4925
https://www.oaklandzoo.org
The Zookeeper Intern Program at The Oakland Zoo offers the opportunity to gain valuable skills, on-the-job training and experience for college students who are interested in pursuing a career as a zookeeper, as well as students interested in veterinary medicine. The program is designed to increase understanding and awareness of the unique and valuable contributions that are made by zoos to conservation. All internship positions are unpaid. Under the supervision and direction of the assigned zookeeper, each intern will learn animal husbandry skills, assist in maintaining exhibit areas, observe and participate in operant conditioning, participate in the application of animal enrichment and interact with the visiting public.
Sacramento Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals
https://www.sspca.org/VolunteerPositions.html
6201 Florin-Perkins Road
Sacramento, California 95828
Volunteers play a critical role in most aspects of the shelter, ranging from clerical assistance to staffing events to socializing animals in the shelter. We make every effort to match volunteers with the job they enjoy most, and provide plenty of training and guidance along the way. Volunteer positions available in the following areas: cat/dog socialization, mobile adoption, “Love on Loan” and more listings are available on their website.
San Francisco Zoo
1 Zoo Road
San Francisco, CA 94132
www.sfzoo.org
The San Francisco Zoo Internship Program offers hands-on work experience to people interested in a career in a zoological field. Internships are offered in the Fisher Family Children’s Zoo, Koret Animal Resource Center, and education department. Interns accepted into this program are expected to learn and successfully perform (under supervision) the duties and responsibilities of an employee in the assigned department. All interns are paid a stipend. Openings for summer internships are posted in early spring; one-year internships are posted from spring to early summer.
Santa Anna Zoo
1801 East Chestnut Avenue
Santa Ana, CA 92701
https://www.santaanazoo.org/index.htm
Zookeeper internships are available during the summer months of May-September. Zookeeper interns are involved in all aspects of animal care in both the Crean Family Farm and the Main Zoo, including exhibit care and maintenance, diet preparation, enrichment, and behavior observation and documentation. Zookeeping is a physically demanding profession, subjecting interns to a variety of physical demands and environmental factors. You can download an application online.
Santa Barbara Zoo
500 Niños Drive
Santa Barbara, CA 93103
https://www.santabarbarazoo.org/
The Santa Barbara Zoo has had a long-standing internship program. Recently they have refined the program to better benefit the student and the institution. The internship bridges the gap between classroom learning and on-the-job experience by facilitating practical learning experience and allowing students to explore career opportunities available in zoos. Providing the student with a realistic look at a zoo career, internships afford opportunities to gain valuable experience related to a student’s educational program and allow the student to make a significant contribution to the Zoo. Visit their website to apply.
US Navy Marine Mammal Program
53560 Hull Street
San Diego, CA 92152
https://www.spawar.navy.mil/sandiego/technology/mammals/index.html
The Marine Mammal Program offers two types of student internships at the Navy marine mammal facility in San Diego: animal care and training and veterinary medicine. Interested students are chosen from all over the country to participate in these voluntary internships that provide valuable exposure and experience in various aspects of marine mammal training, husbandry, and research. For application information, visit their website.
Peninsula Humane Society & SPCA
12 Airport Boulevard
San Mateo, CA 94401
https://www.peninsulahumanesociety.org/
PHS/SPCA, a private non-profit guided by the humane ethic, builds healthy relationships between people and animals. As an ethical choice, they accept all animals in need of care and often provide a second chance to the neediest animals: those who would otherwise be turned away at so-called “no kill” agencies that accept only highly adoptable animals. They have many volunteer opportunities available (and were awarded the 2007 Excellence in Nonprofit Volunteer Management Award and 2008 Volunteer Choice Award). To become a volunteer, simply complete a Volunteer Application online.
Non-Local, Out of State
Academy of Natural Sciences
1900 Benjamin Franklin Parkway
Philadelphia, PA 19103-1195
www.ansp.org
The Academy of Natural Sciences had a Live Animal Center that maintains a collection of approximately 100 live animals used as a vital part of the education program at the Academy of Natural Sciences Museum. These animals are mainly non-releasable wildlife or exotic pets (including raptors, parrots, skunks, rabbits, turtles, snakes, lizards and more). They offer a Live Animal Internship where interns assist the full-time keepers in the care and handling of the collections, and developing an Individualized Training Plan and Independent Project.
Alpha Genesis
Yemassee, SC
hr@alphagenesisinc.com
866.789.MONK
AGI SUMMER VETERINARY PROGRAM: AGI’s Summer Veterinary Program provides students with the opportunity to work closely with AGI veterinarians in the Department of Veterinary Medicine. Participants in this three-month program gain practical experience in clinical practice techniques.
*Deadline April 30
Alaska Sealife Center Internship Program
PO Box 1329
Seward, AK 99664
www.alaskasealife.org
The Alaska SeaLife Center is a non-profit marine science facility dedicated to understanding and maintaining the integrity of the marine ecosystem of Alaska through research, rehabilitation and public education. It offers students the opportunity to intern = with professional aquarists, aviculturalists, mammalogists and veterinarians through the Husbandry Department. Internships and externships vary greatly, but can include: fisheries and marine invertebrate care, marine mammal care, and training seabird care, animal health checks, diet studies, general feeding/cleaning, aquarium maintenance and marine collections.
Audubon Nature Institute Center for Research of Endangered Species Internship Program
14001 River Road
New Orleans, LA 70131
research@auduboninstitute.org
Audubon Nature Institute’s Center for Research of Endangered Species opened in 1996. It is an ambitious and innovative initiative in species conservation. Located on New Orleans’ West Bank on the 1,200-acre grounds of the Freeport-McMoRan Audubon Species Survival Center, the Center is a 36,000 square-foot facility designed to house scientists whose research programs include studies in reproductive physiology, endocrinology, genetics, embryo transfer, and the expansion of a “frozen zoo” to ensure the future of endangered species through the banking of genetic materials.
There are 3 distinctly different internships (Crane Department Intern, SSC Animal Department Intern, Laboratory Animal Holding Intern (Domestic Cats). All internships are 12 weeks long and require a 5 day per week (40hr) commitment. The care of animals is a job that takes place 7 days a week 365 days a year and interns will be required to work weekend days and holidays side-by-side with staff. These are unpaid internships but housing is available at no charge.
Birmingham Zoo
2630 Cahaba Road
Birmingham, AL 35223
https://www.birminghamzoo.com
The College Intern Program is designed to give college students or recent graduates, who are 18 years of age or older, the opportunity to have an in-depth, hands-on experience working in the zoo profession with animal husbandry. This internship program offers interns the opportunity to learn about Zoos, animal care, and the chance to obtain some entry-level experience. The main responsibility of interns is to assist the Birmingham Zoo keepers with daily routines and animal husbandry. The interns will work in their assigned areas for the duration of their internship. The internships will be for the college term, semester or quarter, and will also be available for the summer months.
Boise State -REU Site in Raptor Research (REU-RR)
Dr. Jim Belthoff, REU-RR
Department of Biological Sciences and
Raptor Research Center
Boise State University
Boise, ID 83725
Email: reu-rr@boisestate.edu
https://biology.boisestate.edu/reu/
The REU Site in Raptor Research (REU-RR) is funded by the National Science Foundation and Boise State University. REU-RR is a 10-week summer research program located at Boise State University, Boise, Idaho. Field and laboratory research projects are available for students.
The goal of the REU-Raptor Research site is to engage undergraduates in biological research using birds of prey (hawks, owls, falcons, and eagles) as model systems. Though partnerships among the Department of Biological Sciences and Raptor Research Center at Boise State University, The Peregrine Fund, Inc., Intermountain Bird Observatory, College of Western Idaho, and the Morley Nelson Snake River Birds of Prey National Conservation Area, undergraduates will spend 10 weeks conducting field and/or laboratory research under the guidance of experienced mentors from academia, government, and NGOs. Students also participate in a core program that includes workshops on the biology of diurnal and nocturnal birds of prey, endangered species restoration, responsible conduct of research, applying to graduate school, the publication process, and communication in science. The summer research experience for REU-RR participants culminates with a statewide interdisciplinary summer undergraduate research conference (ICUR) that provides participants the opportunity to communicate their work to a diverse audience of students and scientists.
Bronx Zoo Department of Ornithology
2300 Southern Blvd.
Bronx, NY 10460
Zoo Summer Interns learn how to do behavioral research on birds, train with animal keepers, work with a captive collection, use and further develop observational, analytical and writing skills.
Chicago Zoological Society/Brookfield Zoo—College Experiential Learning Opportunities
3300 Golf Road
Brookfield, IL 60513
https://www.czs.org/czs/Educational-Programs/Internships.aspx
interns@czs.org
The Zookeeper Internship program at Brookfield Zoo was established in 1975. It was one of the first in the nation to allow students pursuing careers in animal care the opportunity to work side by side with professional zookeepers, learning the skills and techniques necessary to manage exotic zoo animals. Since that time, it has expanded to become the College Experiential Learning Opportunities (CELO) program and now provides an array of Zookeeper and Non-Zookeeper experiences each year.
To date, over 900 participants have successfully completed internships, and many have moved on to successful careers involving animal care, conservation, and other fields. Zookeeper internships are available in a variety of animal areas that vary annually depending on season and staff needs: Seven Seas, Australia House, The Fragile Kingdom, Children’s Zoo, Veterinary Services, The Living Coast, Habitat Africa!, the Bird Department, Tropic World, The Swamp, and Zoo Nutrition Services. Zookeeper interns must commit to a 12 week term, 40 hours per week.
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
4250 CMZ Road
Colorado, Springs CO 80906
https://cmzoo.org
The Cheyenne Mountain Zoological Society was founded in 1926 by philanthropist Spencer Penrose. The wide variety of opportunities in animal care and education in the nation’s only mountain zoo provides interns with an exciting array of new experiences for career development. Daily responsibilities include cleaning, feeding and husbandry of animals, public interpretation, and possible opportunities in outreach education and other Education Department programs.
Chimpanzee and Human Communication Institute
400 E. University Way
Ellensburg, WA 98926
https://www.cwu.edu/~cwuchci/apprentice.html
Dr. Mary Lee Jensvold: Jensvold@cwu.edu
The Institute has a 10-week summer apprentice program running from the middle of June through the end of August. The program at CWU is focused on work with four chimpanzees who use American Sign Language (ASL). A class in ASL is suggested but not required. Apprentices are responsible for cleaning enclosures, preparing meals and enrichment, making observations of chimpanzees, and participating in at least one research project. Apprentices are also trained in humane care and research techniques. The program fee is 1800 dollars and does not include housing and transportation. However, low-cost housing is available on-campus.
ChimpanZoo
1717 E. Speedway Blvd.
Babcock Bldg., #3106
Tucson, AZ 85721
www.chimpanzoo.org/
Founded in 1984, ChimpanZoo is an international research program dedicated to the study of chimpanzees in zoos and other captive settings. Approximately 200 chimpanzees are involved in ChimpanZoo, making it the largest ape research program ever undertaken. Trained by participating zoos and the Jane Goodall Institute, students, caretakers and volunteers record behavioral observations and work with zoo keepers to improve the lives of captive chimpanzees and compare their behavior to that of chimps in the wild.
The results of the studies are presented at annual ChimpanZoo conferences, the location of which changes each year. It serves as a forum for discussing and exchanging new information and ideas. The conference attracts the academic and zoological communities, as well as the public. Guest lecturers are also invited to speak about their latest research, and findings are published in scholarly journals. The database is also accessible to zoos, students and instructors.
Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife
P.O. Box 150
Sanibel Island, FL 33957
www.crowclinic.org/
C.R.O.W. is a nonprofit veterinary hospital dedicated to providing medical, surgical, and rehabilitative care to the injured, ill, and orphaned native wildlife of Lee County. Responsibilities include rehabilitation and animal husbandry (cage maintenance, diet preparation, orphan hand-raising), education (animal rescues and releases, presentations and facility tours), and clinic work, assisting in diagnostics, laboratory work, anesthesia, surgery and necropsy.
Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden Internship Program
https://www.cincinnatizoo.org/
3400 Vine St.
Cincinnati, OH 45220
The Intern Program at the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden offers college students and recent graduates a wide range of experiences. Opportunities exist in Animal Care, Business, CREW, Development, Environmental Education, Horticulture, Marketing, Special Events and Veterinary Technology. Following a two to three day orientation, the students work with the staff during their ten-week internship in all aspects of their assigned area(s). the knowledge and experience gained while working at the zoo often provide career direction and opportunities.
CREW interns will experience high tech research at one of the most sophisticated centers for plant and animal research in the world. Interns will assist professionals using research techniques on the cutting edge of science, including cryopreservation, embryo transfer and plant cloning. Interns also help with routine laboratory work and plant/animal care.
College of Charleston
66 George Street
Charleston, South Carolina 29424
843.805.5507
https://reu.cofc.edu
The Fort Johnson Undergraduate Summer Research Program is a ten week internship combining independent research with activities to promote career development and communication skills. Participants will investigate impacts of climate change, natural disasters, pollution, and coastal development on the health of marine organisms as individuals, communities, populations and species, using a wide variety of laboratory and field techniques. Up to 10 fellowships are awarded each year through the cooperative efforts of the marine laboratories at Fort Johnson and supported by funds from the National Science Foundation and the College of Charleston School of Sciences and Mathematics.
Dolphin Institute
P.O. Box 700694
Kapolei, Hawaii 96709
www.dolphin-institute.org/
Senior College Level and Post-College Humpback Whale Research Internship Programs: Field research with humpback whales in Maui, Hawaii. Interns will assist in the 32-year-long continuing research project by The Dolphin Institute (formerly Kewalo Basin Marine Mammal Laboratory) on the winter assembly of North Pacific humpback whales in Hawaii. Dr. Adam Pack and Dr. Louis Herman are the principal co-investigators. Dr. Pack additionally acts as the field director. Historically, our research has investigated a variety of topics including migratory destinations, distribution, inter-island movements, habitat preferences associated with different classes of whales, residency characteristics, competitive behavior, male escorting strategies, song and social sounds, body size and social roles, and individual life histories.
Send cover letter indicating why you are seeking this internship and why you feel you are qualified, complete resume, college transcripts, and three letters of recommendation. Send applications or inquiries by email to Dr. Adam Pack at pack@hawaii.edu.
Eko Traks: Volunteer and Internship positions
https://ekotracks.com/volunteer/
Elmwood Park Zoo
1661 Harding Blvd
Norristown, PA 19401
www.elmwoodparkzoo.org/
Animal Care Interns will be paired with full time keeper staff who will mentor them during their internship. They may be involved in assisting in conservation projects. Job Responsibilities include daily cleaning of exhibits, holding areas, and zoo grounds; food preparation and animal feedings; daily observation and reporting of animal behaviors; maintenance of exhibits and animal areas; routine animal handling; assist veterinary staff with capture and restraint. You can download the online enrollment form to apply for volunteer opportunities.
Esther Honey Foundation
https://estherhoney.org/
EHF established and continues to support the only veterinary clinic for the Cook Islands’ thousands of companion animals. Since the Foundation established the Esther Honey Foundation Animal Clinic in 1995, hundreds of veterinarians and thousands of technologists, interns and animal advocates have traveled to the South Pacific island nation to treat more than 3,000 animals annually.
Fossil Rim Wildlife Center
2155 CR 2008
Glen Rose, TX 76043
www.fossilrim.com
Interns will gain practical experience caring for captive wildlife. There are four intern positions available within Fossil Rim’s animal care department: Animal Care Intern (wolves, coati, ocelot), Children’s Zoo Intern (wolves, ocelot, birds, herps, domestics), Rhino Intern (black rhino program) and Avian Intern (Attwater’s prairie chicken breeding program). Experiences include feeding, cleaning, endangered species management, chemical immobilization, record-keeping, enrichment, training, and many other related activities. Stipend and housing available. Applications are available online.
Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institution, Inc.
5600 U.S. 1 North
Fort Pierce, FL 34946
https://www.fau.edu/hboi/
Harbor Branch offers a Summer Internship Program to qualified undergraduate and graduate students interested in marine-related fields. The major portion of the funding for this program is provided through the generosity of the Link Foundation. The Gertrude Skelly Foundation provides major support for interns in marine biomedical research.
Our Internship Program is designed to provide students work experience in a research environment. The areas of study may include, but are not limited to: aquaculture, biomedical marine research, marine biology, marine mammal research, marine natural product chemistry, marine microbiology, ocean engineering, ocean technology, and oceanography. Applications are available online.
Hawk Mountain
1700 Hawk Mountain Rd.
Kempton, PA 19529
To apply, contact: Dr. Keith L. Bildstein
Sarkis Acopian Director of Conservation Science
570-943-3411 or bildstein@hawkmtn.org
https://www.hawkmountain.org/about/careers/traineeships-internships
Summer Field Experience Internships
Ideal for undergraduates, the two-month Summer Field Experience offers exposure to and training in one or more aspects of fieldwork or data management at the Sanctuary. Emphasis is on training, and in particular, experiential learning with a focus on the Sanctuary’s ecology. Trainees work shoulder-to-shoulder with professional mentors, and each individual completes a collaborative project while at the Sanctuary.
Summer field experience internships are designed specifically for upper-level North American college undergraduates who wish to contribute to Hawk Mountain’s conservation efforts while learning aspects of conservation science. Summer field experience interns receive no stipend or pay, but do have access to resources at the Acopian Center for Conservation Learning.
Hinsdale Humane Society
22 North Elm Street
Hinsdale, IL 60521
https://www.hinsdalehumanesociety.org/default.aspx
The Hinsdale Humane Society is a 50-year-old nonprofit agency dedicated to the care and adoption of unwanted and abandoned animals and the offering of humane education programs to prevent suffering and neglect. The Hinsdale Humane Society offers an internship for undergraduate students planning to enroll in a veterinary school and an externship for those already attending a veterinary school. Shelter veterinary medicine involves the skills needed to treat companion animals in large populations. Decisions need to be made to help the individual patient while balancing the needs of the group. Both of these programs are unique and offer opportunities to gain knowledge and experience working in a shelter environment. For information on either of these programs please visit their website.
Indiana University Bloomington
Summer Research Experience for Undergraduates
May 23 – July 30, 2016
107 S. Indiana Avenue
Bloomington, IN
47405-7000
Phone: 812-855-4848
https://www.indiana.edu/~animal/reu/REU.php
The REU program in Animal Behavior brings about 10 undergraduate students to Indiana University each summer to engage in animal behavior research. Located in the heart of Bloomington, IU is a Big Ten university with a national reputation for research in the sciences. The city is nestled in the hilly, wooded countryside of southern Indiana near local lakes, state parks, and the Hoosier National Forest. It is conveniently located one hour south of Indianapolis (home of the Indy 500, the Colts and the Pacers, and the largest children’s museum in the US), 2.5 hours from Cincinnati, and 4 hours from Chicago. The area offers a variety of outdoor activities including biking, boating, caving, camping and hiking, as well as a rich cultural life of music, museums, and restaurants. An extensive public bus system can take you anywhere you want to go. Apply online before MONDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2016.
Indianapolis Zoological Society, INC.
1200 West Washington Street
P.O. Box 22309
Indianapolis, IN 46222
www.indyzoo.com
The Intern Program offers individuals a truly unique opportunity to college/university students and recent graduates to become actively involved in the conservation, education, and research efforts of the Zoo. Interns will be able to enhance their knowledge and experience necessary for today’s job market in the many fields making up Zoo & Aquarium Sciences, Non-profit Management, Communications, Marketing, Education, Horticultural Sciences, and more! Internships can be the essential key to gaining employment in Zoos and Aquariums when coupled with a related Bachelor’s degree. Internships are currently available to college students studying within the United States only.
Many positions are offered year round and can take place in one of three sessions: Winter/Spring (January-April), Summer (May-August), and Fall (September-December). Typically, Interns work 20-40 hours per week for a minimum of 12 weeks in length, depending on the position. However, these 12 weeks must be consecutive in length. Intern positions are experience based and are therefore unpaid. Housing and transportation are the responsibility of the Intern, although the Zoo can assist in the arrangement of such services if requested. For more information, please visit their website.
International Exotic Feline Sanctuary
P.O. Box 637
Boyd, TX, 76023
www.bigcat.org
There are four to six positions available within the International Exotic Animal Sanctuary animal care department. The International Exotic Animal Sanctuary is the first sanctuary ever to be granted certification by the AZA. The Sanctuary cares for 67 exotic animals encompassing 13 different feline species and two different bear species.
Candidates should have at least two years of undergraduate program studies in zoology, animal management, biology, or a related field or three years of experience at an AZA accredited facility. Interns must be able to perform regular, strenuous duties in 90 to over 100 degree weather and must be able to lift 50lbs. Interns will gain practical experience working with exotic animals, will be involved with our educational program and will be involved in our emotional and behavioral enrichment programs. Interns will be able to learn as much about exotic animals’ behavior as they choose to learn within the three month session.
Experience includes feeding, cleaning, animal health, animal management, behavioral studies, chemical immobilization, record keeping, assisting in construction and habitat modification, and related activities. Interns will also be involved with the volunteer program and formal and informal presentations. Vehicles, housing and stipend are available. Housing is in a new luxurious four bedroom-four bathroom air-conditioned dormitory home with a large kitchen. Applications are available on their website.
Kentucky Reptile Zoo
200 L&E Railroad
Slade, KY 40376
www.kyreptilezoo.org
The Kentucky Reptile Zoo internship program offers college students or recent graduates the chance to receive hands-on training experience at a facility with one of the most extensive and diverse reptile collections in the world. We have available internships for the fall, spring, and summer seasons. Starting dates are flexible, but a minimum of three months covering spring (April-June) summer (June-August) and fall (September-November) is required.
The intern will assist in the captive maintenance of the zoo’s reptile collection, collect admissions to the exhibit, give interpretive talks and interact with the public, assist with educational outreach programs, and perform other duties as assigned. In addition, the intern will be responsible for the completion of at least one research project related to the field of herpetology. The intern will not be involved in the handling of any venomous species.
Lincoln Park Zoo Internship Program
P.O. Box 14903
Chicago, IL 60614
https://www.lpzoo.org/index.php
The zoo’s Research Internship program provides unique opportunities for undergraduates and recent graduates to gain research experience on exotic species in a captive setting. The internship program is based in the Conservation & Science Department and offers a unique opportunity to conduct work in a variety of areas and gain valuable experience while being a part of the zoo’s team approach to research and management of small populations. Interns have the opportunity to conduct research projects under the guidance of staff scientists in one or more of the following areas: demography, population genetics, population modeling, animal behavior, animal cognition, epidemiology, endocrinology and conservation.
Internships are between three months and two years. Our three-month internships are usually filled in the summer months by college sophomores, juniors or recently graduated seniors. In these internships, a student is mentored by a zoo scientist on a single research project in one of the above areas. These short internships usually focus on data collection and/or analysis of an ongoing research project.
New England Wildlife Center
19 Fort Hill Street
Hingam, MA 2043
https://www.newildlife.com/
The Center hosts approximately 40-50 student interns each year, internships are variable in length and are free of charge. Housing is available on a very limited basis for a fee of $50.00 a week. The Center treats approximately 3,000-5,000 native and naturalized wild animals representing 225 species per year. Student interns perform as the primary work force of the Center. They are responsible for all aspects of the daily operation of a nonprofit wildlife animal hospital. All skills are taught to the students by full-time, on staff veterinarians, a certified veterinary technician, an office manager and a resource development officer. Interns are responsible for foraging for wildlife foods, dietary design and preparation, cleaning, husbandry, administration of medications, assisting with medical and surgical procedures, hospital maintenance, and release of patients into appropriate habitats.
Northwest Trek Wildlife Park Zoological Internships
11610 Trek Drive East
Eatonville, WA 98328
https://www.nwtrek.org/
The intern reports to the zoological curator and will have experiences in captive animal management. Duties will consist of assisting animal care technicians with: preparing animal diets, feeding animals, cleaning enclosures, operating pool filtration systems, assisting veterinarian and administering medications as prescribed. Work will also include enclosure maintenance, preparing reports, oral presentations to the public, observing animal behavior, recording data and working with the education department. If you are interested in applying for an internship position, feel free to utilize the convenient on-line application form. If you have any questions, please contact Dan Belting at 360-832-7162 or dan.belting@nwtrek.org
Northwoods Wildlife Center, INC.
8683 Blumenstein Road – Highway 70 West
Minocqua, WI 54548
https://www.northwoodswildlifecenter.com/
The Northwoods Wildlife Center, a non-profit wildlife rehabilitation and education center located in the beautiful Northwoods of Wisconsin is now accepting resumes for fall 2009 internships. Interns will work with injured and orphaned wildlife AND help educate the public through guided tours of the Center.
Interns will be involved in all phases of wildlife rehabilitation, including emergency care, daily feeding and cleaning, rehabilitation, and releases. This includes care of non-releasable animals kept at the Center for educational purposes. Interns will also work with visitors who wish to tour the Center, help give short programs at the center, and may assist in programs given at other locations. Interns may help in the development of further educational opportunities for the public. The position will be approximately 50-60% wildlife rehabilitation and 40-50% public education.
Oregon Zoo Conservation and Research Internship
4001 SW Canyon Road
Portland, OE 97221
https://www.oregonzoo.org/Intern/conservation.htm
The Organ Zoo Conservation and Research Internship program is looking for undergraduate or graduate level college students wishing to earn course credits for work in the zoo’s Living Collections division. The internships include animal care, horticulture, animal behavior, conservation, and research.
The Conservation Research Section accepts a limited number of interns each year who assist in our own research and conservation projects. We have an ongoing understanding with Michigan State University and sponsor students from MSU who wish to fulfill their Zoo and Aquarium Science Internship requirement at the Oregon Zoo. Upper division and graduate students from other institutions seeking research or conservation internships at the Oregon Zoo are evaluated on a case-by-case basis depending on the needs of our current conservation and research projects. To be considered for a Conservation and Research Internship, a student must be receiving academic credit from or be fulfilling an academic requirement of an accredited Institution of Higher Education. It is the responsibility of the intern to ensure that all university or college requirements are met to receive credit.
PAWS Wildlife Center
P.O. Box 1037
Lynnwood, WA 98105
https://www.paws.org/
PAWS advocates for animals through education, legislation and direct care. A Northwest leader in protecting animals since 1967, the Progressive Animal Welfare Society shelters homeless animals, rehabilitates injured and orphaned wildlife, and works to end animal abuse and exploitation. There are a variety of opportunities for individuals to gain valuable experience in the fields of companion animal sheltering, public affairs/community relations, and wildlife rehabilitation and veterinary medicine. Please check out the opportunities below. Companion Animal Services Internships – assist with our work with homeless dogs and cats. Public Affairs/Community Relations Internships – assist with communication, advocacy and outreach. Wildlife Rehabilitation Internships – assist with caring for injured and orphaned wild animals
Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium
5400 N. Pearl St.
Tacoma WA 98407
https://www.pdza.org/
The Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium’s Internship Program offers individuals a unique opportunity to become actively involved in the mission of Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium. Internships provide college students or recent college graduates practical experience in a zoological environment while gaining valuable knowledge related to his/ her career goals. This exciting and challenging atmosphere offers you the opportunity to supplement and apply your classroom knowledge.
Typically, internships are 3 to 4 months long with a 32-40 hour workweek. Interns must be flexible with their schedule and have the ability to work weekdays, weekends, and holidays.
All positions are unpaid with no housing provided. If accepted into the program you must provide proof of a negative TB test given within the last year (does not apply to Education Internships). Interns are accepted each academic quarter for most positions. Since the summer season is the most competitive, we encourage interested students to consider other times of the year. More information and an application can be found on their website.
Philadelphia Zoo
3400 West Girard Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19104
https://www.phillyzoo.org
The college internship program is one of the many ways the Philadelphia Zoo demonstrates a commitment to its mission of conservation, education, science and recreation. The Animal Care Internship’s duties include: assist in the care for more than 60 exotic and domestic mammals, birds and reptiles in the Zoo’s teaching collection. Internships are available in the summer, spring and fall semesters. This opportunity is available to college freshmen through seniors as well as recent college graduates majoring in biology, zoology, environmental education or a related field. A grade point average of 2.5 or higher and demonstrated interest in working with animals and basic biological knowledge are required. Application is available online.
The Tulane National Primate Research Center – Undergraduate Fellowship Program
18703 Three Rivers Road
Covington, LA 70433
https://www.tnprc.tulane.edu/training_summer.html
The Undergraduate Fellowship Program is offered to pre-baccalaureate students who are currently enrolled in a college-level educational institution and who are interested in biomedical research as a possible career choice. The Undergraduate Fellowship Program entails one-on-one mentored participation in a research project. This is an annual three-month summer program. A small stipend is offered.
The Undergraduate Fellowship Program for pre-baccalaureate students interested in a biomedical research experience will be offered during the months of June, July and August. Positions will be available in each of the following five Divisions of the TNPRC: Bacteriology & Parasitology, Comparative Pathology, Gene Therapy, Immunology, Microbiology.
To be eligible for the Undergraduate Fellowship Program a student must have completed at least one year of undergraduate coursework in biology or a biomedical related field. All applicants must currently be undergraduate or graduate students in good standing and be strongly motivated to participate in on-going research projects at the TNPRC. Participants will have an opportunity to present their research at the End-of-Summer Research Symposium. Application information is available online.
UC Davis Pre-Vet Summer Internship
https://www.vetmed.ucdavis.edu/students/admissions/pre_program_opportunities.cfm
University of Missouri
Miller Summer Program in Animal Sciences
150 Bond Life Sciences Center
Columbia, MO 65211
Michael Cohen, 573-882-5979, CohenME@missouri.edu
William Lamberson, PhD, 573-882-8234, LambersonW@missouri.edu.
The objective of the Miller Summer Research Internship program is to introduce students to animal sciences research, emphasizing food and fiber producing animals. Animal Sciences faculty research a variety of areas, including: ruminant and nonruminant nutrition; reproductive physiology; genetics and molecular biology; environmental physiology; and production and management. Each student will be working directly within a laboratory under the supervision of an internationally recognized researcher. Eligibility:
Applicants must meet the basic eligibility requirements. Students are expected to have a minimum of a 3.0 GPA and have completed 2 years of college. Selection is partially based on the applicant’s potential and motivation for future graduate study (PhD level) in animal sciences.
Pay:
The internship provides a stipend of $3,800, one hour of academic credit, travel to and from Columbia, on-campus housing and meals.
Walt Disney World/Disney’s Animal Kingdom/EPCOT Living Seas
https://disney.go.com/disneycareers/internships/
Advanced internship opportunities are available in the following areas: Marine Mammals, Aquarium, Aquaculture, Aquatic Research, Aquatic Vet Hospital, Conservation Education, Chemistry, Animal Behavior, Reproductive Biology, Animal Nutrition, Vet Medical Records, Vet Hospital, Education Presenters, Information Management, Life Support/Engineering, Cast Training and Development. Visit their website for more detailed information and an application.
Wildlife Conservation Society: Volunteer and Internship positions
https://www.wcs.org/about-us/careers/interns
The Wildlife Society: Internships and Jobs
https://careers.wildlife.org/home/index.cfm?site_id=8764
Wildlife Rescue & Rehabilitation – San Antonio, TX
Roger & Phyllis Sherman Animal Care Complex
137 Earl Street, San Antonio, TX 78212
Phone: 210.257.8823
https://wildlife-rescue.org/internships/
Applications are now being accepted for the position of Animal Care Intern at Wildlife Rescue & Rehabilitation’s (WRR) San Antonio facility. This internship is unpaid and no housing is provided. This opportunity is appropriate for individuals who have an excellent educational background but lack substantial experience working with animals and who are interested in pursuing a career in animal care or wildlife rehabilitation.
This internship involves work with native Texas wildlife, including feeding, cleaning and daily monitoring of squirrels, songbirds, pigeons and doves and other species as necessary. Other responsibilities include recordkeeping and telephone work, performing animal rescues and releases, and transporting native animals between facilities. This internship involves substantial physical labor (must be able to lift 50 pounds) and flexibility to work in a variety of conditions with variable hours. Rabies pre-exposure vaccinations are strongly recommended. A valid drivers license and a good driving record are also necessary.
Wolf Education and Research Center
208.743.9554
PO Box 217
Winchester, Idaho 83555
www.wolfcenter.org
Desired candidates are mature individuals with the ability to handle physically and emotionally stressful situations, a demanding workload with long hours, and can work independently or as part of a team. Applicants should possess a strong personal work ethic, a high level of integrity and great customer service skills. Prior wildlife rehabilitation experience is a plus. Minimum term requirement is two months and 10 hours per week.
The Wolf Education and Research Center is dedicated to providing public education and scientific research concerning the gray wolf and its habitat in the Northern Rocky Mountains. The Center will provide the public with the rare opportunity to observe and learn more about the wolf in its natural habitat. It is our goal to be an inclusive organization that offers factual and balanced information. We seek to enhance public awareness of threatened species in the region and to develop in concert with residents ways to coexist with these species.
The intern positions with the Wolf Center are intended to complement an individual’s transition from the academic studies to the professional working environment. Our captive wolf pack resides on a three hundred acre site, leased from the Nez Perce Tribe. The facility is located approximately one mile west of the town of Winchester, Idaho. Our visitor center is primarily an educational facility with the focus on wolves, gray wolf reintroduction in Idaho, the culture and history of the Nez Perce Tribe along with other regional environmental and multi specie issues. Fill out an application online.
Wolf Hollow Internship Program
Post Office Box 391
Friday Harbor, WA 98250
https://www.wolfhollowwildlife.org
Wolf Hollow offers 10 animal care internship positions for summer/fall 2009. Closing date for applications is Feb 28th 2009. An internship at Wolf Hollow provides the opportunity to gain hands-on experience working with many different wildlife species and to learn skills such as handling techniques, diets, food preparation and feeding methods and to assist rehabilitation staff with treatment procedures. The internships are intended to provide on-the-job training in basic rehab skills, not to teach advanced veterinary theory or techniques. The organization provides on-site housing and working hours can range from 9:00 am-5:00 pm in the winter to 8:00 am-10:00 pm in the summer. Interns will also be on-call 24 hours a day for emergency calls and works some evening shifts and night feeds throughout the week. Each intern is given two days off each week when possible,
The organization’s busiest time is “Baby Season”, which usually begins in about May and runs through October. During this period they receive a considerable amount of orphaned and separated young wild creatures in addition to a steady stream of injured animals.
Interns who come to Wolf Hollow during different parts of this season will gain different types of experience. It can be highly variable from year to year, but in early summer they mostly caring for young orphaned raccoons, fawns, nestling birds etc. By mid summer we are spending much of our time working with harbor seal pups, while in early fall we are mainly involved in caring for juvenile animals prior to release, as well as any injured animals that are brought in to us for treatment during this time.
Additional Resources to Search Research and Summer Opportunities:
https://www.aavmc.org/Students-Applicants-and-Advisors/One-Health-and-Research002DRelated-Student-Opportunities.aspx
https://people.rit.edu/~gtfsbi/Symp/vetag.htm
Veterinary Technician Programs:
https://asac.ucdavis.edu/PDF/Handouts/Pre-Vet/Vet%20Tech%20Programs.pdf
Shelter and Internship Opportunities in California: links from UC Davis pre-vet website:
Shelter Internships
Wildlife Internships and Exotics Internships
Additional Pre-Vet Opportunities: links from Tufts website:
https://uss.tufts.edu/hpa/ExperientialPrep/PreVeterinary.asp
International
Namibia
IE3 Global Internships
(541)346-1212
kpoole@darkwing.uoregon.edu
Cheetah Conservation Fund Research and Conservation Site: Work to preserve the habitat and future of the cheetah in the Kalahari bush. Interns will participate in a variety of tasks and operations of the programs based on interests and needs.
Cook Islands
IE3 Global Internships
(541)346-1212
kpoole@darkwing.uoregon.edu
The purpose of the Esther Honey Foundation (EHF) is to improve the health conditions of domestic animals in the Cook islands (South Pacific) by providing on a continuing basis, veterinarian and technicians for the island. EHF Animal Clinc offers affordable spay/neuter and immunization services, and introducing a comprehensive animal health education program.
Honduras
IE3 Global Internships
Robert.thurston@orst.edu
(541)737-1814
At the Pan American Agricultural School in El Zamorano one can work with the chief veterinarian to treat farm animals and hold clinics for livestock in surrounding communities. Reasonably priced housing and meals are available on campus. Advanced Spanish conversation ability is required