The Blank Park Zoo’s Zoological Medicine rotation provides a diverse clinical experience with zoological species under captive and semi-captive conditions. Students will spend 4 weeks with zoo staff observing and participating in procedures; however, the degree of participation will vary depending on the experience, interest, and skill level of the student. Students will gain experience in conducting physical examinations on a variety of non-domestic species. Students will be able to observe anesthesia of captive wildlife under various conditions, as well as a variety of capture and restraint methods. Students will be exposed to the Daninject remote delivery systems including dart and field procedure safety. Students will gain experience monitoring anesthesia in a variety of species. Students may have the opportunity to collect blood samples and perform minor procedures such as endotracheal intubation and catheter placement. Students will assist in laboratory testing and hospital cleanliness. Students will spend time with keepers to gain exposure to appropriate species-specific animal husbandry. Students are encouraged to give a presentation on an approved topic of choice to staff at the end of the rotation.
Students will spend 4 weeks with zoo staff observing and participating in procedures; however, the degree of participation will vary depending on the experience, interest, and skill level of the student.
Prerequisite: Students must have completed and passed an elective exotic animal/zoo medicine course and provide documentation and proof of satisfactory completion.
Health Requirements: A negative TB test within the last year, and up-to-date vaccinations for tetanus and rabies, are all required.
Veterinary students will be collegial and respectful in all interactions with staff, colleagues, and visitors. Professional behavior and appearance are required. Students are not permitted to interact with or handle zoo animals, except under the direct supervision of zoo staff and when instructed to do so. All questions are encouraged, although students with questions should attempt to seek answers through self-guided research prior to asking staff.
While on rotation, students are expected to research appropriate information on the species with which they work, review medical records to identify pertinent information, create appropriate anesthetic protocols, recommend an appropriate examination and treatment plans, and be prepared for all cases scheduled for the day. Students will maintain a complete and concise electronic journal of all cases seen throughout the rotation. Daily attendance is required Monday through Friday.
Students on rotation at the zoo should expect to perform strenuous physical activity including walking long distances, working in all-weather types, standing for long periods of time, and lifting animals or equipment, up to 50lbs in weight. Finally, enthusiastic and motivated attitudes are appreciated and encouraged.
Following the rotation, students should have a basic understanding of the challenges of zoological medicine including proper husbandry, nutrition, welfare, medical care, and training for captive exotic animals in a zoo environment.
On-site housing option may be available. A deposit of $125.00 is collected on the initial day and $100.00 is refunded back to the student pending the completion of checkout list. Please arrange this with zoo staff at least two weeks prior to the rotation if on-site housing will be needed.
Occupancy of a room is permitted ONLY for Occupants to whom the room is assigned by the Zoo. The Occupant may NOT share his or her assigned room with any other individual(s) not officially assigned to that room. Overnight guests of the Occupant are strictly prohibited. The Occupant is responsible for the care of the room and the furnishings and equipment in the Facility. The Occupant shall keep the assigned room in a clean and sanitary condition (This includes washing linens, washing dishes, cleaning up messes, and taking out the trash).
Pets are NOT allowed at any time.
Smoking is NOT permitted within or outside the Facility.