Veterinary Extern - General Practice

About the Role

This externship at Mitchell Animal Hospital puts you right in the middle of real veterinary practice. You'll shadow and work closely with Associate Veterinarians, gaining practical experience across the full scope of general practice — from patient histories and physical exams through treatment planning, diagnostics, dentistry, and surgical procedures. It's designed to bridge the gap between classroom and clinic, giving you a realistic window into how a busy practice operates day to day.

Most externships run two to eight weeks, depending on your schedule and the hospital's needs. You'll develop clinical skills alongside communication abilities, working with the medical team, support staff, and clients. This externship is specifically structured for clinical-year veterinary students.

Key Responsibilities

• Gather and document patient histories under veterinarian supervision
• Perform physical examinations and assist in diagnostic procedures
• Participate in creating and executing treatment plans
• Assist with and observe surgical procedures
• Support medical management and follow-up care for patients
• Practice professional communication with the medical team, support staff, and clients
• Perform or assist with dentistry services as appropriate

Requirements

• Currently enrolled in the clinical year of a veterinary medicine program

Benefits

• Travel and living expense stipend (amounts vary by location — check the NVA Canada stipend list for Kitchener details)
• Hands-on mentorship from experienced Associate Veterinarians
• Exposure to a supportive practice environment committed to excellent medicine
• Real-world clinical experience across general practice disciplines

About the Practice

Mitchell Animal Hospital is part of NVA Canada, a network of veterinary hospitals dedicated to providing exceptional service to animals and the people who love them. Each NVA hospital operates independently while sharing a commitment to supportive teamwork and high-quality medicine. The Kitchener location welcomes clinical-year veterinary students for externships year-round, offering a genuine learning environment rather than a transactional internship.

NVA Canada is committed to diversity, inclusion, and accessibility — both in the workplace and throughout the recruitment process.