What are the responsibilities and job description for the Veterinary Medical Intern position at Animal Rescue League Of Iowa?
Kitten Nursery Medical Intern - Unpaid Seasonal Opportunity
The Animal Rescue League of Iowa (ARL) is seeking a dedicated and compassionate Kitten Nursery Medical Intern to support the Medical team in caring for kittens in our kitten nursery. This internship plays a vital role in advancing ARL’s mission by providing hands-on support to ensure the health, safety, and well-being of vulnerable neonatal and juvenile kittens in a shelter environment. The ideal candidate is passionate about animal welfare, eager to learn, and comfortable working in a fast-paced, emotionally rewarding setting.
In this role, you will work closely with ARL’s medical staff, interns, and volunteers to support daily care and operations in the kitten nursery. Responsibilities include assisting with specialized kitten care such as feeding, cleaning, and monitoring, as well as ensuring all animals receive proper care at all times. You will be responsible for maintaining a clean and sanitary nursery environment during your shift to ensure it is prepared for the next intern or volunteer team.
Individuals in this role are responsible for accurate and timely data entry related to kitten care and medical needs. You will participate in stress- and disease-reduction efforts through calm, purposeful, and compassionate handling of kittens in a shelter setting. Clear and proactive communication with medical staff is essential, as is assisting with the training and support of volunteers working in the kitten nursery.
Successful candidates will demonstrate knowledge of and adherence to ARL policies, procedures, and safety protocols, and will perform other related duties as assigned to support the Medical team and shelter operations.
Schedule: Sunday through Saturday opportunities to support around the clock care. This is a seasonal position generally from April through October.
Qualified candidates must be able to function effectively in a fast-paced and sometimes stressful environment while demonstrating excellent customer service, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills. The ability to perform basic mathematical skills and a working knowledge of the Microsoft Office Suite are required. Strong attention to detail, the ability to follow instructions accurately, and a clear commitment to the Animal Rescue League of Iowa’s mission and values are essential. An interest in veterinary medicine, animal care, or shelter medicine is strongly preferred.
The physical demands of this role include standing or sitting for extended periods of time and safely handling kittens of varying ages and health conditions. The working environment may involve frequent exposure to animal odors, waste, contagious diseases, bites, scratches, and moderate noise levels.
At the Animal Rescue League of Iowa, this internship provides meaningful, hands-on experience in shelter medicine while making a direct and immediate impact on the lives of vulnerable kittens. Interns gain valuable exposure to medical operations, animal handling, and teamwork in a mission-driven organization dedicated to improving the lives of animals and the people who love them.
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and applicable state regulations, the Animal Rescue League of Iowa provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages interns to discuss accommodation needs during the application process.
Multiple shift opportunities throughout the week.