Veterinary Extern - General Practice

is a friendly, close-knit small animal clinic located in a welcoming Southern community in East Tennessee. Our practice is just 45 minutes from the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine and under an hour from Lincoln Memorial University, making us an ideal externship site for veterinary students seeking strong mentorship with easy access to academic resources.

We’re conveniently located 5 minutes from Morristown, TN, and 25 minutes from Sevierville, gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg, and abundant outdoor recreation. Our clinic offers the perfect blend of small town charm and access to vibrant nearby communities.

Externship Overview

We are excited to offer a veterinary externship for motivated veterinary students interested in gaining hands-on experience in a supportive, educational environment. Externs will work directly alongside experienced doctors and staff in all aspects of small animal medicine and surgery.

This externship is well suited for students seeking:

• Exposure to real world general practice

• High quality mentorship

• Opportunities to build clinical confidence and practical skills

• A collaborative, positive clinic culture

Medical Team & Mentorship

Our veterinary team includes:

•1 Full-time Managing DVM (UTCVM graduate, Class of 2022)

•1 regular relief DVM (works every Tuesday; 25+ years of experience; UTK graduate)

•2 additional part-time relief DVMs, including: 

o A faculty member at LMU

o A veterinarian who also practices emergency medicine and previously owned a private practice

You’ll also work closely with our skilled support staff, including:

•1 part time Licensed Veterinary Technician (LVT)

•5 Veterinary Assistants

Our doctors and staff are enthusiastic about teaching and mentoring students at all stages of training.

Facilities & Equipment

•  Digital radiography (X ray) 

•  Ultrasound 

•  Fully equipped dental suite with dental X ray 

•  Surgical and orthopedic instrument packs 

•  Electronic medical records and online pharmacy capabilities

What Makes Us Stand Out

• Supportive clinic culture with a friendly, team oriented atmosphere

• No on call shifts

• Four day work weeks for doctors, promoting excellent work–life balance

• Wide case exposure, including routine and advanced surgery and dentistry

• Affiliation with NVA, providing: 

o Access to structured mentorship programs

o Competitive benefits for full time team members

o Connection to four NVA owned clinics within a 35 mile radius, offering expanded learning and networking opportunities

Who Should Apply

We welcome applications from veterinary students who are:

• Curious, engaged, and eager to learn

• Interested in small animal general practice

• Looking for meaningful mentorship and hands on experience

• Interested in exploring potential future employment within an NVA practice

Most externship experiences at range from two to eight weeks depending on student and hospital schedules. This externship is designed for 3rd and 4th year veterinary students.

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.