What are the responsibilities and job description for the Veterinary Extern position at NVA?
Description & Requirements
Mentorship that actually teaches. Medicine you actually practice. A location worth traveling for.
Red Hills Animal Hospital stands out for students who want more than shadowing. This is a hands-on learning experience led by Dr. Caleb Gwilliam, an adjunct professor at Washington State University College of Veterinary Medicine, who brings an educator’s mindset into everyday clinical practice. If you’re looking for thoughtful mentorship, real case involvement, and a team that wants you to learn why decisions are made — this is the place.
Why Red Hills Animal Hospital?
-
Direct mentorship from a veterinary educator actively involved in academic instruction
-
A culture that encourages questions, discussion, and clinical reasoning
-
Meaningful involvement in cases, not just observation
-
A supportive team environment where students are treated as future colleagues
What You’ll Be Exposed To
Red Hills Animal Hospital is a full-service companion animal practice with a diverse, practical caseload. Students gain experience with:
-
Preventive and wellness care
-
Dentistry services
-
Soft tissue surgery
-
Diagnostic workups and treatment planning
-
Medical case management
Working alongside Dr. Gwilliam, externs benefit from case-based teaching, clinical discussion, and mentorship designed to help bridge the gap between school and practice.
How You’ll Spend Your Time
Externs participate in patient histories, physical exams, diagnostics, treatment planning, surgical observation or assistance, and ongoing medical management. You’ll also develop the communication and teamwork skills that matter just as much as technical ability in real-world practice.
Externship experiences typically range from two to eight weeks, depending on schedules. All veterinary students, regardless of school or class year, are encouraged to apply.
Veterinary students in the clinical portion of their education may be eligible for a travel and living expense stipend.
Why This Location?
Red Hills Animal Hospital is located in St. George, Utah, where red rock landscapes, national parks, and year-round sunshine are part of daily life. Spend time off hiking in Zion National Park, exploring Snow Canyon State Park, or enjoying the water at Sand Hollow and Quail Creek. It’s an externship that feels like a professional investment and a reset.