Veterinary Extern

About the Role

Ready to bridge the gap between classroom and clinic? This externship gives you a genuine window into daily practice operations while working closely with supervising Associate Veterinarians. You'll move beyond observation into meaningful clinical work—gathering patient histories, performing physical exams, developing treatment plans, assisting with diagnostics and surgical procedures, and managing medical cases alongside the team.

Beyond clinical skills, you'll sharpen your communication with colleagues, support staff, and pet owners—the human side of veterinary medicine that textbooks can't teach. Most externships run 2–8 weeks depending on your schedule and the hospital's needs.

Carnegy Animal Hospital is part of NVA Canada, a network committed to excellent medicine and exceptional animal care. The practice offers a supportive environment where learning is prioritized and you'll see firsthand what it takes to run a thriving general practice.

Key Responsibilities

• Gather patient histories and perform physical examinations under supervision
• Participate in the creation of treatment plans and diagnostic workups
• Assist with or perform dental procedures
• Observe and assist with surgical procedures
• Support the medical management of hospitalized patients
• Communicate with the medical team, support staff, and clients to develop professional communication skills

Requirements

• Currently enrolled as a 3rd or 4th year veterinary student in an accredited program
• In the clinical portion of your veterinary education

Benefits

• Travel and living expense stipend (amount varies by location; see NVA Canada stipend program details)
• Hands-on clinical experience in a supportive learning environment
• Mentorship from experienced Associate Veterinarians
• Exposure to full-spectrum general practice cases

About the Practice

Carnegy Animal Hospital is part of NVA Canada, a network of veterinary practices built on a shared commitment to supportive work environments, excellent medicine, and outstanding service to animals and their families. The hospital values diversity and inclusion as core to its everyday practice.

Located in Halifax, Nova Scotia, the practice offers students the chance to gain real clinical experience in a collaborative setting where learning is genuinely supported.