Externs will assist the veterinarians and veterinary technicians in the daily clinical practice at the Fort Worth Zoo. Minimum skills to be learned and practiced by students include examination, blood collection techniques, basic laboratory techniques, and chemical immobilization and anesthesia of zoo animal species. Students will complete and present a project by the end of the externship.

Highlights: 

• Three- to eight-week externships for veterinary students in their clinical years
• AZA-accredited institution with a diverse collection of over 7,000 animals and 500 species
• Veterinary team includes 3 veterinarians (including one Dipl. ACZM), 4 licensed veterinary technicians, 2 veterinary assistants, 1 hospital keeper, and 1 procurement keeper
• Fully-equipped veterinary hospital (rigid/flexible endoscopy, ultrasound, blood gases analyzer, digital radiography, OR, ICU room, necropsy room) with a full-service in-house laboratory
• This is a volunteer program; no monetary compensation, housing, transportation, or insurance will be provided

All students with a strong interest in zoo medicine are encouraged to apply. Self-motivated, self-starting students will have the greatest success in this externship. Application materials include:

• Cover letter, curriculum vitae, and two letters of recommendation
• Include 3 preferred time slots ranked in order of preference
• Submit application materials and prioritized time slots to Dr. Sarah Cannizzo by e-mail at
• scannizzo@fortworthzoo.org

Externs must have a negative TB test within 6 months of start date, be up-to-date with tetanus vaccine (within the last 10 years), and have a current rabies vaccine or titer within the past 2 years