The Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium (OHDZA) veterinary externship program is designed to familiarize 4th year veterinary students, from accredited institutions, with a veterinary program in a zoological setting. Under the direct supervision of the veterinarians, students will have the opportunity to utilize their medical knowledge and skills in the diagnosis and care of the exotic and wildlife species included in the collections at the OHDZA and the Lee G. Simmons Conservation Park and Wildlife Safari, a drive thru park 30 minute outside of Omaha. The collections contain a variety of animals including hoof stock, great apes, primates, carnivores, small mammals, pachyderms, pinnipeds, birds, reptiles, amphibians, invertebrates, and multiple aquatic species.
*Two zoo shirts will be provided. Jeans are not allowed.
Some of the things an extern can expect to participate in or learn include:
- routine case evaluation/workups/treatments
- limited case management as determined by the veterinarians
- participation in procedures/surgeries
- avian, herp and/or mammal venipuncture
- anesthetic monitoring
- record keeping using the ZIMS medical record system
- participation in chemical immobilizations
- the use of remote darting and capture equipment
**The project or paper can be something that benefits the zoo and/or something that can be utilized to fulfill a school requirement. The proposed topic should be mutually acceptable to the extern and the veterinarians.
The Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium (OHDZA) veterinary externship program is designed to familiarize 4th year veterinary students, from accredited institutions, with a veterinary program in a zoological setting. Under the direct supervision of the veterinarians, students will have the opportunity to utilize their medical knowledge and skills in the diagnosis and care of the exotic and wildlife species included in the collections at the OHDZA and the Lee G. Simmons Conservation Park and Wildlife Safari, a drive thru park 30 minute outside of Omaha. The collections contain a variety of animals including hoof stock, great apes, primates, carnivores, small mammals, pachyderms, pinnipeds, birds, reptiles, amphibians, invertebrates, and multiple aquatic species.
*Housing will be provided.
*Two zoo shirts will be provided. Jeans are not allowed.
*Proof of a current TB test (within 1 yr prior to the externship) is required.
*Rabies vaccinations or a current titer are recommended.
*Each student may complete a written paper or project during their externship. **
Some of the things an extern can expect to participate in or learn include:
- routine case evaluation/workups/treatments
- limited case management as determined by the veterinarians
- participation in procedures/surgeries
- avian, herp and/or mammal venipuncture
- anesthetic monitoring
- record keeping using the ZIMS medical record system
- participation in chemical immobilizations
- the use of remote darting and capture equipment
**The project or paper can be something that benefits the zoo and/or something that can be utilized to fulfill a school requirement. The proposed topic should be mutually acceptable to the extern and the veterinarians.
Three full time vets, ultrasound, endoscopy, digital radiography, surgery
Externships should be at least 4 weeks in duration and will conclude at a time mutually agreed upon by the Senior veterinarian at the zoo, the student, and his/her mentor. Each student will have a unique experience based on the routine health checks and medical and surgical procedures that take place during their rotation. Not all students will work with all species but every effort will be made to provide a well rounded experience during their stay.
Proof of a current TB test (within 1 yr prior to the externship) is required.
Rabies vaccinations or a current titer are recommended.
Each student may complete a written paper or project during their externship. **
Hours are typically 8:00am to 5:00pm, Monday through Friday. Students may be asked to come in early or to stay late when necessary to accommodate procedure schedules and unforeseen emergencies. No pets, alcohol, smoking, visitors. Laundry, private room and bath, kitchen, wi-fi- provided.