Veterinary Extern - General Practice

About the Role

An externship at Park Veterinary Centre offers veterinary students a hands-on window into modern general practice. You'll spend 2–8 weeks (depending on your schedule and the hospital's availability) working alongside Associate Veterinarians, building the clinical skills and confidence you'll need as a graduate.

Your days will include gathering patient histories, performing physical exams, developing treatment plans, running diagnostics, assisting with dental and surgical procedures, and managing patient care. Beyond the technical work, you'll sharpen your communication skills—working effectively with the medical team, support staff, and clients is just as important as clinical competence. Park Veterinary Centre is part of the NVA Canada network, which means you'll be learning in an environment built on supportive collaboration and a genuine commitment to excellent medicine.

This is an opportunity available to all veterinary students, regardless of class year, who are in the clinical portion of their education. If you meet that criteria, you may also be eligible for a travel and living expense stipend to support your externship experience.

Key Responsibilities

• Work directly with supervising Associate Veterinarians on patient care
• Gather patient histories and perform physical examinations
• Assist in developing and implementing treatment plans
• Support diagnostic procedures and interpret findings under supervision
• Assist with or perform dental and surgical procedures
• Manage patient medical care and recovery protocols
• Communicate effectively with the veterinary team, support staff, and clients
• Gain exposure to the day-to-day operations of a general practice hospital

Requirements

• Currently enrolled in an accredited veterinary medicine program
• In the clinical portion of your education
• Commitment to a 2–8 week externship period (flexible based on your schedule)

Benefits

• Travel and living expense stipend (available to students in the clinical phase; amounts vary by location)
• Mentorship from experienced Associate Veterinarians
• Real-world clinical experience in general small animal practice
• Exposure to surgical, diagnostic, and medical management procedures
• Professional networking within the NVA Canada network

About the Practice

Park Veterinary Centre is part of NVA Canada, a network of progressive, supportive veterinary hospitals across the country. Every NVA location shares a common philosophy: creating an environment where excellent medicine and exceptional client service go hand in hand, and where team members feel valued and supported.

Located in Sherwood Park, Alberta, the practice serves the local community with comprehensive general veterinary care. NVA Canada is committed to diversity, inclusion, and providing an accessible, welcoming experience for every person who walks through the door—whether they're a client, a team member, or an extern student.