Veterinary Extern - General Practice

Externship Experience At An NVA Hospital

An externship experience at an NVA hospital will give students the unique opportunity to understand the day-to-day operations of the practice, and to gain valuable hands-on clinical experience. Although every NVA hospital is unique, we all have some things in common: an environment that is supportive, committed to excellent medicine, and provides exceptional service to animals and the people who love them.

One of the things that makes our hospital special is that our entire staff from our receptionists to our veterinarians are all Fear Free Certified.

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. Externships at The Paw Patch Place are only offered to veterinary students in their final clinical year of veterinary school.

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