Students spend three to eight weeks working in the Animal Health Department and are exposed to the multi-faceted nature of veterinary practice in a large public aquarium with over 20,000 animals. Preceptors gain experience with preventative and clinical medicine life support systems, and communication with husbandry staff. Hands-on experience is provided wherever possible but is dependent on the experience or speed of learning of the student and comfort level of the staff. Preceptors are also asked to attend clinical rounds, attend informal journal club rounds, and work on a quiz and presentation. Preceptors are shown routine clinical laboratory tests and necropsy protocols and are expected to then carry out these as necessary. They are expected to help maintain timely and accurate medical records using the Tracks software. 

The majority of the case load consists of reptiles, birds, fish and amphibians. The aquarium also manages bottlenose dolphins and small populations of tamarins and sloths.

Applicants must be in their clinical training years (generally 4th year, occasionally 3rd year) during their rotation.

Application deadline is October 15 the year prior to the requested externship. Externship are available for 3-8 weeks.

Email a cover letter stating your interest, CV, and 2 letters of recomendation to veterinarians@aqua.org.

Email: veterinarians@aqua.org