The Detroit Zoological Society offers externship training for veterinary students in the clinical phase of their education. Our program is geared toward students interested in pursuing a career in zoo and/or wildlife medicine and provides an opportunity for students to experience all of the facets of zoo veterinary practice and to gain knowledge and skills that will make them more qualified for advanced training programs.
The Detroit Zoological Society Department of Animal Health consists of four full-time veterinarians and three licensed veterinary technicians. One veterinarian is board-certified in zoological medicine under the American College of Zoological Medicine (ACZM). One of the veterinary technicians is a specialty technician in zoological medicine under the Veterinary Technician Specialists (VTS). The zoo has been hosting veterinary student externs for several years. The zoo has standard and advanced diagnostic equipment including digital radiography, cone-beam computed tomography, in-house laboratory capabilities, digital dental radiography, and ultrasound.
The student will spend a period of 3-12 weeks, where they will be working under the direct supervision of a veterinarian or veterinary technician. They will take part in the discussion of cases and the development of treatment plans. They will assist with medical and surgical care, anesthesia, necropsies and other duties as warranted.
Housing is available for out-of-state students (those who do not currently reside in the state of Michigan) in a shared house located on zoo grounds that has a full bathroom, full kitchen, backyard, and comfortable living quarters. Rooms are generally private but may need to be shared with another intern depending on availability. Housing is available on a first-come first-serve basis and should be requested at the time of application.