What are the responsibilities and job description for the Veterinary Extern - General Practice position at NVA?
Description & Requirements
North Country Veterinary Services is a mixed large and small animal general practice hospital in 2 different offices with 8-9 different DVMs.
Here is a testimonial from a recent student extern:
“The externship at North Country Veterinary Services was exceptional and I learned so much as a 4th year veterinary student during the 8 weeks I was there. The externship offered me an opportunity to learn new skills and each veterinarian taught me skills that I am currently using in my fourth-year rotations. The environment at North Country Veterinary Services is welcoming and fosters dialogue which is paramount for learning and communication. This placement was unique since I was allowed to follow different veterinarians daily and I was allowed to act independently such as conducting physical exams, making diagnoses (under veterinarian supervision), monitoring anesthesia during surgeries, and participating in spay and neuter surgeries as the primary surgeon. Additionally, I received important insight into veterinary hospital management, hospital-related finances, and the role of a veterinary manager as well.
The North Country Veterinary Services provided an extraordinary experience, especially since I had limited experience in a private practice. I received exceptional mentorship from every veterinarian.
The Small Animal services allowed me to gain experience with managing clinical cases, participating in anesthesia & surgery, completing medical records, and I was able to work with the veterinarians to diagnose and create a treatment plan.
The Large Animal services was a great experience since I was able learn more about rural practices and the importance of client communication. In addition, I was able to participate in dairy herd checks, treat lameness, give IM injections, collect blood from horses, and perform several equine physical exams.
I believe my time at the North Country Veterinary Services was an exceptional experience, especially for me and the mentorship provided by all the veterinarians gave me confidence and contributed to my knowledge in veterinary medicine."
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 for details on the stipend program. The stipend amount for North Country Veterinary Services – Oswego is $1,000.