Texas State Aquarium

Description of Elective Experience: 

Clinical experience in aquarium/zoo facility (birds, land and marine mammals, reptiles, fish) and wildlife rehabilitation facility primarily dealing with raptors and shorebirds (rarely includes sea turtles and marine mammals). Externs observe and assist in public facility and may have opportunity to practice case management in wildlife rehabilitation facility, according to experience and demonstrated skills.

Institutional and Educational Resources - staffing, equipment, etc.: 

Single staff veterinarian and veterinary technician, no board certification.

Radiology and gas anesthesia frequently routinely used. Endoscopy and ultrasound used rarely but available on-site. Lab work done routinely on-site includes cytology, fecal exams, minimal blood work; most blood work sent off-site.

Student Responsibilities - what is expected of students in terms of hours, days of the week, shadowing or actual support?: 

Nominally 40 hours per week; more may be available according to student interest in caseload but not required. Scheduling highly flexible according to patient needs.

Student Housing (include costs, amenities, pet friendly, contact info if different from elective contact info): 

In the past students have often been able to secure housing by renting a room from aquarium staff; however this can never be guaranteed to be available at any given time.

Supervisor: 
David Stelling, DVM
Website: 
texasstateaquarium.org
Contact email: 
Address: 
2710 N Shoreline Blvd
Corpus Christi, TX 78402
United States
Is student housing available?: 
No
Hours of supervision by a licensed veterinarian per week: 
Variable, usually 20 to 40