Unique institution, as student would be immersed in the two dairy facilities and two calf ranches that Holsum operates. Holsum employs three veterinarians, student would predominantly interact with Dr Stollen (the staff veterinarian), the other vets are responsible for primarily managerial projects.
Veterinarians work on farm with equipment at each site as needed, so a non-traditional dairy production medicine externship. The student would participate in herd checks for the dairies (Mon 5:30AM-NOON) and heifer checks (Tues 6:45-10AM), the rest of the week would be divided up into time spent working with herdsmen in the hospital and maternity areas, opportunities to treat calves, observe hoof trimmers, etc. based on student interest. Students are included on any emergency work or surgical procedures. In the past this has included obstetrical cases (with fetotomy/caesarians as needed), displaced abomasum correction (both roll and toggle and surgical management), umbilical hernia resection, fracture management, enucleation and laceration repairs. Because we are a working dairy there is variability in the presentation of said procedures.
We regularly have team meetings on the dairies and students are welcome to come and observe our interactions with herdsmen, milkers, and upper management staff. We have bilingual translation for training, feedback and meetings. Any students looking to practice Spanish are especially welcome and employees are happy to share their cultural experience.
3 veterinarians, hospital and obstetrical equipment, farm facilities & approx 90 farm employees across the 4 sites.
Students are expected to be present Mon-Fri roughly 6AM to 2:30PM with flexibility on afternoon finish time based on caseload/meetings/ER calls. Students can be called after hours and on weekends to observe/assist with ER cases and are welcome to assist with hospital cow management, but weekend availability is not mandatory. Students are expected to be respectful of employees, cows and facilities during their visit.
We accept students for 1 week long externships. Paid summer internships (10 weeks in duration) are also possible, with students receiving a research project to complete in their time rotating through locations on the dairies, under veterinary supervision. Applications accepted through Jan 15th of each year with decisions made by March 15th.
Local hotel is available in Chilton, WI located within a 10 min drive from the dairies. Student would have to pay the going rate for hotel, plus meals (one or two meals would be provided by the farm).