Veterinary Extern - General Practice

National Veterinary Associates; Troutville (VA); On-site; USD 8,900 - 18,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Travel stipend

Living stipend

Job summary

Botetourt Veterinary Hospital in Botetourt, VA offers a veterinary externship for students to gain hands-on experience in a community-based general practice. Under supervision, you will learn clinical skills, patient care, and client communication.

externs work closely with a supervising veterinarian across histories, exams, treatment planning, diagnostics, dentistry, and surgical observation or participation during a two to eight week period. Travel and living stipends may be provided.

Responsibilities

• Gather patient histories and perform physical exams.
• Create treatment plans and assist with diagnostics.
• Provide dentistry services and assist or perform surgical procedures.
• Support client communication and education.

Job description

Hospital Name: Botetourt Veterinary Hospital

Job Type: Veterinary Extern

Description & Requirements

Welcome to the Botetourt Veterinary Hospital Externship Program! Our program offers veterinary students a unique opportunity to gain hands‑on experience in a thriving, community‑based general practice. Our clinic serves a diverse clientele with a broad range of possible ailments, which allows students to deepen their knowledge and skills in small animal medicine. Through direct mentorship from our experienced team of veterinarians, you will gain invaluable insights into the day‑to‑day realities of veterinary practice, strengthen your clinical expertise, and enhance your confidence in patient care.

Students will work closely with the supervising veterinarian to gain experience in gathering patient histories, performing physical exams, creation of treatment plans, diagnostics, dentistry services, observing/assisting or performing surgical procedures, and medical management of patients. In addition to practicing their clinical skills, student externs will have the opportunity to practice their communication skills with the medical team, support staff, and clients.

Most externship experiences range from two to eight weeks depending on student and hospital schedules. All veterinary students (regardless of class year) are encouraged to participate in NVA externships.

Veterinary students who are in the clinical portion of their education are eligible for a travel/living expense stipend. Click HERE to view list of stipend amounts and HERE for details on the stipend program.