Veterinary Extern - General Practice

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.

Students will work closely with the supervising Associate Veterinarians 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 at Randall Road Animal Hospital 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. Housing may be available in some instances.

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

National Veterinary Associates is a leading global pet care organization united in the love of animals and the people who love them.

NVA, a community of approximately 1,400 premier locations consisting primarily of general practice veterinary hospitals in addition to equine hospitals and pet resorts, and Ethos Veterinary Health, which consists of 145 world-class specialty and emergency hospitals, are rooted in a culture of compassion and innovation.

NVA and Ethos Veterinary Health’s innovative, collaborative approach underpins a shared commitment to delivering exceptional veterinary care. For more information, visit

NVA offers a comprehensive benefits program including medical, dental, vision, a 401k with employer match, and paid time off (including sick time) for all eligible employees. The team can provide more information about compensation and benefits for your specific location during the process. For positions based in Colorado, NVA provides eligible employees with paid sick and safe leave and public health emergency leave in accordance with the requirements of Colorado's Healthy Families and Workplaces Act.

NVA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information. Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, Los Angeles Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and any other state or local hiring regulations, we will consider for employment any qualified applicant, including those with arrest and conviction records, in a manner consistent with the applicable regulation.