Vet Students
The Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital's motto is "save one, save the species", and it is with this in mind that we offer several vet student placements.
Due to high demand
all placements
are closed for 2012.
What can I expect?
Students are based in the clinic, working alongside our qualified experienced veterinarians. You will have the opportunity to observe and assist with procedures, gaining unique experience with native Australian wildlife. You will be required to commit a minimum of five consecutive days for this program, working from 8:00am – 5:00pm daily.
How do I apply?
Applications are accepted up until the end of April of the proceeding year. No applications are accepted after the end of April, and placements will be confirmed by the end of May.
These placements are offered to international, interstate and Queensland 5th year vet students, and a limited number of 4th year UQ vet students only. Placements are very competitive and selections are based on the merit of a written application addressed to kathyw@wildlifewarriors.org.au.
Placements at the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital are in high demand, so it is recommended that you apply early! Make sure you check out the profiles of recent vet students below for a feel of the program.
Vet Student Profiles
Name: Jess Ford
From: Berkshire, UK
University: Royal Veterinary College, London
Prac Studies: From 26th March 2012
Why the AZWH?: I wanted to try something a bit different and you never know when you might get some wild animals into your practice. Plus, Australia has much more exciting wildlife than England!
Goals: I would like to do an internship and residency after graduating and specialise in medicine, neurology or cardiology, but I keep changing my mind!
Memorable Patient: On my first triage shift a ringtail possum named Sunny came in with hind limb paralysis. She was a lovely girl and I just really like possums.
Advice: As long as you don't take your placements too seriously, they are actually quite fun!
Have you enjoyed your time at the AZWH working with our staff and vets?: Yes, absolutely! Definitely the most exciting placement I have ever done!
Name: Emily Farrow
From: Suffolk, UK
Prac Studies: From 26th March 2012
Why the AZWH?: To see and be involved in a dedicated wildlife hospital and to learn handling skills and treatment protocols, hopefully transferable to wildlife and exotic pets back in the UK.
Goals: Perhaps to look for an internship to develop small animal critical care and referral knowledge. Either way, to find a small animal practice where I can be involved in as much exotic animal and wildlife care as possible.
Memorable Patient: Mr Glee, a young male koala undergoing daily physio following spinal surgery after he was found at the base of a tree. He is incredibly determined, tries to do everything at a run and loves his leaf!
Advice: Become as involved as you possibly can. The lengths AZWH goes to for wildlife is amazing and there is an awful lot to learn, but don't be afraid to ask questions (and bring a pair of sturdy leather boots or wellies for outside work!).
Have you enjoyed your time at the hospital working with our staff and vets?: Definitely! AZWH is an inspiring place to see practice at, and the work with the koalas in the outside barns made my face ache from smiling!
Name: Sara Neumann
From: New York City, USA
University: University College Dublin
Prac Studies: 5th-16th March 2012
Why the AZWH?: I have always loved working with wildlife and hope to be a wildlife vet in the future. So, coming here to this hospital could give me just a little taste of my future.
Goals: I want to travel the world, working with wildlife as a veterinarian. Also, helping communities where I can to develop better livestock.
Memorable Patient: "Corrine" - I have seen her many times while here. She had a recurring infection due to a bone spavin that was surgically removed.
Advice: You need to be open to new experiences and many different kinds of veterinary medicine, you never know what you may end up loving.
Have you enjoyed your time at the AZWH?: Yes!! I have loved my stay; if I could have stayed longer I would have!! School, always getting in the way!!
Name: Laura Pritchard
From: Adelaide, SA
University: University of Adelaide
Prac Studies: 13th-24th February 2012
Why the AZWH?: I have always had an interest in Australian wildlife and this seemed like a fantastic opportunity to learn from.
Goals: I am hoping to be able to work with wildlife in some capacity as it feels very rewarding.
Memorable Patient: It's hard to pick just one, but I think the sea turtles are amazing! They are just so gently for such a large creature.
Advice: If you have an interest in something you should try to get experience while you can.
Have you enjoyed your time at the AZWH?: Absolutely. Every day there is something new to learn. The staff and volunteers are obviously really passionate about what they do and it really shows. All of the animals are so well looked after and there is always something to do. Everyone is so friendly and willing to teach you. Thank you so much for having me. It was all an amazing experience.
Name: Katherine Makowski
From: Buffalo, NY (USA)
University: University College Dublin
Prac Studies: From 20th January 2012
Why the AZWH?: I have done a lot of wildlife rehabilitation in the United States and have always wanted to come to Australia. My veterinary school gave me four weeks to spend anywhere in the world as part of my final year and I knew this was my opportunity to travel here and work with the native wildlife.
Goals: I am interested in a lot of areas of veterinary medicine and will eventually specialise, but for now I plan to enter a small animal practice that also treats exotics and wildlife.
Memorable Moment: Drawing up 160ml of A/D food for a big loggerhead sea turtle, pulling her out of the water with three other people and dropping the food in the water - all that effort for nothing!
Advice: I would tell every vet student not to get discouraged. Keep reminding yourself about the end goal and always to do your best because that's all anybody can ask of you. Follow your heart and your passion.
Have you enjoyed your time at the AZWH?: Definitely - the veterinary team at the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital are a very talented group and are great at what they do. They are always helpful and willing to teach. Thanks for having me on board!
Name: Cassandra Lappin
From: Chiltern, Victoria
University: University of Queensland
Prac Studies: From 23rd January 2012
Why the AZWH?: I wanted to learn more about the treatment of Australian wildlife!
Goals: I'm not 100% sure, but I will most likely go into mixed practice after graduation and see where it takes me.
Memorable Patient: Demeter - a common brushtail possum with rodenticide. She was almost dead and her PCU was only 8 but we gave her a blood transfusion and she survived.
Advice: Make the most of your time at clinical placement, ask lots of questions - you can learn so much!
Have you enjoyed your time at AZWH?: Yes! It has been an amazing two weeks! I have learnt so much and seen so many interesting cases. The vets and nurses have been really helpful and kind. It is great to see so much care and effort towards our beautiful wildlife.
Name: Jordyn Bradshaw
From: Sunshine Coast
University: University of Queensland
Prac Studies: From 16th January 2012
Why the AZWH?: I consider knowledge of Australian native wildlife to be of major importance to attain regardless of the field in which I choose to practice post-graduation. Having recently completed an anatomy subject which featured Australian wildlife, I felt a desire to expand my knowledge through practical experience in a wildlife hospital. The Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital was ideal as it not only provides initial treatment for injured wildlife, but also endeavours to rehabilitate animals before releasing them back into the wild.
Goals: At the moment I am simply keeping my mind open to all possibilities. I am trying to avoid developing tunnel vision on a single path to only discover at a later date that I no longer like the direction in which it is leading me.
Memorable Patient: To be honest, I could not pick a favourite anything. There were so many patients that were unforgettable; from everybody's favourites, Whistler and Cody, down to the adorable, yet allusive, baby platypus staying in the nursery overnight. I must admit though, I had a real soft spot for the kangaroo joeys.
Advice: Expect to get your hands dirty! Behind every job and activity is a purpose. It is important to utilise the moment and approach everything as if it were a learning experience.
Have you enjoyed your time at the AZWH?: Absolutely, the hospital staff were simply amazing to work with. It is inspiring to see such a degree of commitment and pasison in all those who work at the hospital. Everyone who I had the chance to work alongside and watch were not only accommodating and convivial, but were also great teachers.
Name: Claire Madden
From: Gold Coast
University: University of Queensland
Prac Studies: From 9th January 2012
Why the AZWH?: Large case load of native wildlife.
Goals: Conservation medicine and/or zoo medicine.
Memorable Patient: Watching surgery (exploratory laparotomy) of a young female koala.
Advice: If you're truly keen to get wildlife medicine experience, this is the place to come.
Have you enjoyed your time at the AZWH?: All the vets were fantastic - all very willing to teach, I never felt shy to ask questions and all the vets were very encouraging to get me involved. Likewise, all the nurses were very patient with their teaching and allowed me ample opportunity to get hands on experience. Thank you everyone!
Name: Rebecca Martens
From: Brisbane
University: University of Queensland
Prac Studies: From 26th December 2011
Why the AZWH?: Wildlife is something I am quite passionate about and I wanted to broaded my learning and practical experiences beyond small animal practice.
Goals: To work in a mixed practice on the outskirts of the city and to be competent in treating wildlife, with the hope to one day become a wildlife vet.
Memorable Patient: Button the swamp wallaby joey - bloating of the stomach and intestines, unrelated to eating. He died on the table whilst being prepared for an exploratory laparotomy (cardiac and respiratory arrest) only to come back to life just as we were about to give up on ventilating him. He then survived the surgery a few days later and is now recovering well. Miracle joey and incredibly cute.
Advice: Definitely consider wildlife as a potential career path, as it can be just as diagnostic as small animal practice and is so important. Apply yourself and try to get as much experience as possible!
Have you enjoyed your time at the AZWH:? Yes! I have loved my time at the hospital. The staff have been so lovely and incredibly helpful explaining procedures and laboratory results. There is such a vast variety of animals that come in, it has been so interesting and always keeps you on your toes.
Name: Lucia Ya
From: Brisbane
University: University of Queensland
Prac Studies: From 26th December 2011
Why the AZWH?: So I could broaden my knowledge and experience with Australian wildlife.
Goals: To travel, see and learn about the animals of the world.
Memorable Patient: The exploratory laparotomy I was a part of to remove fishing line from a green sea turtle. Unfortunately the turtle was euthanased due to the extent of the entanglement in its intestine. It was a sad reminder of human ignorance and its impact on wildlife.
Advice: Broaden your knowledge of wildlife as they need as much help from us as any dog or cat!
Have you enjoyed your time at the AZWH?: It has been such an enjoyable learning curve, thanks to the wonderful vets and nurses here. Thank you for a fabulous two weeks!
Name: Alexandra Doulman
From: Wagga Wagga, NSW
University: Charles Sturt University
Prac Studies: From 5th December 2011
Why the AZWH?: As I have an interest in wildlife care and rehabilitation I wanted to learn more from a veterinary perspective. The Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital seemed the most suitable place to achieve this.
Goals: To be a mixed practice veterinarian in rural NSW. When I graduate I hope to be able to treat some of the thousands of sick and injured animals that get put to sleep due to lack of funding and knowledge of the native species medicine.
Memorable Patient: Where to start? Each day and every patient was incredible. Every day was topped by the next. A shy albatross was probably one of my favourite patients as it is so rare for them to come to land and end up in the hospital. It was also very easy to fall in love with all the koalas and watching surgery on a juvenile bettong was also pretty incredible.
Advice: I think it is a must for all vet students. I believe that all vet students should come and do at least some prac here even if it is a long way from home for some of us. No matter where we end up people are going to expect us as veterinarians to have some knowledge and appreciation of native species, and we have a responsibility to them.
Have you enjoyed your time at the AZWH?: Yes I had a great time. I loved the experience and the knowledge I am going to take away from such a placement. I hope I can encourage my fellow classmates to do prac here. It was amazing to see so many people with such knowledge and passion for our wildlife.
Name: Charlotte Maunder
From: Brisbane
University: University of Queensland
Prac Studies: 5th December - 16th December 2011
Why the AZWH?: Born in England, I have always had a passion for the amazing native wildlife that Australia has to offer. Our curriculum provides very little in the way of wildlife medicine and I think it is an area that all vets need some experience in.
Goals: Ultimately I would love to work in wildlife or exotics, but in the meantime I am looking forward to graduating and hopefully starting off in mixed practice.
Memorable Patient: Zelda the Shy Albatross. She was blown off course in a storm (we think) and showed up in north Brisbane! After a quick checkover and some fluids, she was able to be released in a more appropriate place.
Advice: Try to get some experience in as many fields as possible, even if you think you know where you want to be. You never know what you'll end up loving!
Have you enjoyed your time at the AZWH?: Absolutely! All the staff were incredibly helpful and willing to teach and demonstrate whatever they were doing. I was amazed and inspired by how passionate and knowledgeable the staff were about every single species presented. My visit definitely reaffirmed for me that this is something I want to do in future!
Name: Denise Lilwall
From: Brisbane
University: University of Queensland
Prac Studies: 21st November - 2nd December 2011
Why the AZWH?: Although our university curriculum covers comparative anatomy, there really isn't a lot to offer in the way of medicine or treatment techniques for wildlife and speices that are not domesticated. I chose this prac placement to gain a basic understanding and even competencies in wildlife medicine as it's something I know I will have to face once I graduate. I have always held a keen interest and appreciation for native wildlife, and to have the knowledge to be able to help and give a little something back is a good feeling.
Goals: To become competent as a mixed practice veterinarian, and be able to provide the highest level and quality of care for whatever my patients may be. I'm hoping after a few years of practising I will find my real interest and nice, but for the meatime becoming a zoo veterinarian is still the dream.
Memorable Patient: Poor little Winney-Moo the koala with his two broken legs!! When I first started at the AZWH he couldn't move around much in his casts, but by the time I left he was wandering around the hospital on his own. He didn't mind the odd cuddle either.
Advice: At some point as a veterinarian you're going to have injured wildlife passing through the clinic doors, and they will more than likely need treatment, whether it be fluids or pain relief. Don't turn a blind eye to wildilfe, read up on your stuff or even volunteer somewhere. It will be very rewarding, and as veterinarians we have a huge responsibility and the ability to preserve some of our native animals. The staff at the wildlife hospital have a lot to offer; take the opportunity to learn from them!
Have you enjoyed your time at the AZWH?: Yes, very much - the vets, nurses and staff have been fantastic, and of course who wouldn't want to have the opportunity to interact with all the critters that pass through the hospital?
Name: Claudia Mueller
From: Germany
University: Justers-Liebig-Universitaet Giessen
Prac Studies: 22nd August - 16th September 2011
Why the AZWH?: I wanted to learn more about how to treat and handle wild animals, and a wildlife hospital like the AZWH is just the perfect place for that. I am a big fan of Australia Zoo and Australia Zoo Wildlife Warriors, so the choice was easy.
Goals: I would love to work with wildlife, but if that is not possible, I'd like to treat birds and reptiles which are kept as pets. I will try to learn something about the local wildlife in my area, so I will be able to treat it, if I have to.
Memorable Patient: Roo Roo (red kangaroo joey) with a broken leg. The vets could fix the bone with an external fixateur, although the bone was very thin.
Advice: If you are interested in wildlife and want to get an insight on the work with it, you should definitely come to the AZWH. I think it is important to get to know how to treat wildlife and every vet should be able to do that. I definitely feel more confident now in handling and treating wild animals.
Have you enjoyed your time at the AZWH?: I had a great time here. The vets and staff are very friendly and answer every question. I really enjoyed working here.
Name: Anja Znidarsic 
From: Slovenija
University: University of Ljubljana
Prac Studies: 22nd August - 2nd September 2011
Why the AZWH?: I find Australian wildlife very unique and special. I thought this would be a great opportunity for me to gain some experience and knowledge about handling and treating wild animals. I want to experience as much as possible before deciding what kind of work as a future veterinarian suits me best.
Goals: I plan to finish my degree. I am not sure yet which animals I want to work with, but I do know that if I stay in clinical work I would like to be an orthopaedic surgeon.
Memorable Patient: A female koala, hit by a car, had a joey in her pouch. She was in a really bad condition with multiple fractures to her skull, maxilla, palate and cheekbone, with her entire upper jaw split in half. Nevertheless, she was fighting for life all night with the help of a caring nurse. Because she had too many unrepairable fractures she was euthanased. Her joey fortunately was okay and given to another koala for adoption.
Advice: Be adventurous and inquisitive, and try to do as much practical work as possible.
Have you enjoyed your time at the AZWH?: I have had an awesome time. I wish I could stay longer. The vets, nurses, volunteers and other staff were really friendly, and helpful and willing to teach me. I was really inspired by the passion you have for the work you do. I would like to thank you all for the great experience.
Name: Leanne Penney
From: Northern Ireland, UK
University: University of Glasgow
Prac Studies: 1st August - 13th August 2011
Why the AZWH?: With a keen interest in the exotic and wildlife side of veterinary, I wanted to experience the diversity of wildlife in Australia. This world renowned hospital was the only place I felt I could fully achieve this experience and teaching.
Goals: After graduating I hope to work in mixed practice for a few years in the UK. From here I hope to continue exploring my exotic interests and who knows, I could be back in Australia before too long.
Memorable Patient: Peppermint, a green sea turtle who came into the hospital because he suffered from Floater Syndrome, meaning he could not dive in order to search for food. After a number of weeks of hard work by the vets, he recovered and was tagged and chipped for release! It was a special moment when we released him into the big pond where he took a dive to the very bottom.
Advice: Explore your opportunities to see practise in veterinary hospitals all over the world. Broaden your knowledge of the global veterinary scene and enjoy the travelling as you go. The more experience you have now as a student, the more opportunities will present in the future.
Have you enjoyed your time at the AZWH?: I have loved every minute of my time at the hospital, and wish I didn't have to leave so soon! I head home with a greater understanding of all aspects of wildlife care, in particular emergency critical care and triage, which will benefit me immensely as I start my veterinary profession. I'd like to thank all the vets and nurses for their commitment and encouragement towards me, and to all the volunteers who work tirelessly day in and day out to keep the hospital running smoothly.
Name: Lim Yi Yu (Avril)
From: Malaysia
University: Melbourne University
Prac Studies: 28th June - 8th July 2011
Why the AZWH?: To enhance my wildlife knowledge and apply it to the wildlife that I encounter in mixed practice.
Goals: To become a mixed practitioner in the country.
Memorable Patient: Asha the koala. He was hit by a car and suffered from a fractured jaw. He had a mandibular repair and a g-tube placement while I was here. Hopefully he will make a full and healthy recovery and get released back into the wild.
Advice: Apply early in order to guarantee your spot for the placement.
Have you enjoyed your time at the AZWH?: Yes, it has been an enjoyable two weeks in the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital. It has also been a privilege to work with such a professional and dedicated team of wildlife rescuers. Thank you so much!
Name: Cindy Hung
From: Brisbane/Taiwan
University: University of Queensland
Prac Studies: From the 11th July 2011
Why the AZWH?: Due to the diversity of the veterinary industry, I am still not sure where I want to head off. So I would like to expose myself to as many different areas as possible and have a peak at the different opportunities that are out there.
Goals: Hopefully I can continue my career as a vet and no matter where I am, can become a vet that cares for my patient, my client and my colleagues and will always have passion for what I do.
Memorable Patient: I think Asha caught my eye after I gave him a bum bath. He has a special personality, cute face and singlet.
Advice: We are heading towards an amazing career. Don't be afraid. Believe in yourself, work hard and have fun!
Have you enjoyed your time at the AZWH?: Definitely yes! Most of the vets, nurses and volunteers have been friendly. I can feel that they make an effort to ensure I have good learning opportunities as well as allow me to have fun with all the different, amazing animals we meet.
Name: Jo Clapham
From: Cairns/Brisbane
University: University of Queensland
Prac Studies: From the 27th June 2011
Why the AZWH?: To learn more about the care and treatment of wildlife.
Goals: To be a good vet and maintain compassion.
Memorable Patient: Assisting in orthopaedic surgery on Asha the koala.
Advice: Be enthusiastic!
Have you enjoyed your time at the AZWH?: I certainly have. Thank you!
Name: Monika Janssen
From: Ontario, Canada
University: The Ontario Veterinary College, Guelph, Ontario
Prac Studies: 9th May - 13th May 2011
Why the AZWH?: I've had the chance to help out with several wildlife projects in Canada and work with a variety of native Canadian wildlife species. I wanted the chance to expand that base and learn about Australian wildlife and the different challenges wildlife vets face in comparison. Plus, as a veterinary student I could not pass on the opportunity to apply for the program specifically designed for vet students to be involved with the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital at Australia Zoo, a place that is legendary and widely known across Australia and throughout the world.
Goals: I'm aspiring to become involved in zoological and wildlife medicine in the future, and am aiming to do a DVSc shortly after graduating from veterinary college.
Memorable Patient: Shanay was an orphaned young koala joey that was brought in after a mysterious but rapid decline in her condition. When she arrived her prognosis was not good, but Shanay was given around-the-clock care and the wildlife team collaborated really well to try to figure out the best treatment for Shanay. Her case demonstrated how dedicated wildlife rehabilitators are to protecting and helping native Australian species and how much effort wildlife veterinarians put into every case. Shanay's illness proved to be too much for her in the end, but I will always remember her case fondly.
Advice: Keep an open mind! Don't be afraid to try different opportunities that come across your path - there's so much to be learnt from all areas of veterinary medicine. Even if you already have an idead in your head of what you want to do, don't be afraid to also gain experience in other areas while you have the change - you never know what you could take away from it!
Have you enjoyed your time at the AZWH?: Yes - I've had the chance to really appreciate the hard work that goes into operating such a large scale wildlife hospital. I've been able to meet and work with some truly dedicated and wonderful people from all over the world and I'm really grateful for my experiences here!
Name: Nicole Diehm
From: Germany
University: Ludwig - Maximilians - Universitat Munchen
Prac Studies: From 18th April 2011
Why the AZWH?: I want to gain more experience in caring for and treating wild animals, especially reptiles.
Goals: To work in a mixed veterinary practice, but I also imagine working in a zoo.
Memorable Moment and Patient: As a child I was frightened of snakes. I think the most memorable moment for me was the moment I treated my first snake - Legacy the carpet python. From that moment on I was no longer afraid of snakes and couldn't wait to treat the next one. Actually, I can also imagine working only with reptiles in the future.
The most memorable patients for me are Angelina and Tana the huge sea turtles weighing almost 150kg. I think I will keep their beautiful eyes always in my mind.
Advice: Make the most of your fifth year! Gain as much practical experience as you can. Have the heart to be self confident and ask questions; sometimes the vets are too busy to explain.
Have you enjoyed your time at the AZWH?: I had such a great time at the wildlife hospital. I've learnt so much about caring, handling and treating wildlife animals. During my time at the hospital I got the chance to improve my skills in medial treatment.
Name: Julia Kamy
From: Germany:
University: Justus-Liebig, Giessen
Prac Studies: 21st March - 16th April 2011
Why the AZWH?: I'm very interested in wildlife and conservation medicine and especially Australian wildlife, as it is so different and interesting. I think this experience will be a great help for me.
Goals: I'm not really sure about my specialisation... there are so many different animals I'm interested in! I could imagine myself working in a zoo or with exotics.
Memorable Patient: The sub-adult wedge-tailed eagle Mudslyd! This bird had a severe open fracture of the left metacarpals and a necrotic wing tip. The tip was amputated and therefore the eagle can't be released. Now Mudslyd will be placed on a species management plan and hopefully will make a great addition to a zoological garden.
Advice: Don't give up just because somebody tells you that it is impossible. Realise your dreams!
Have you enjoyed your time at the AZWH?: Yes - it was a great time and I learned so much! Thank you for all the memories!
Name: Carolyn Lawford
From: Bacchus Marsh, Victoria
University: Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga NSW
Prac Studies: 14th February - 18th February 2011
Why the AZWH?: To gain some experience and knowledge when caring for and treating Australian wildlife and be able to use this in practice in the future.
Goals: To work in a mixed veterinary practice in rural Australia, particularly beef cattle and equine.
Memorable Patient: Feeding Fanta the rare Olive Ridley Turtle.
Advice: Keep persevering! The road may be long and winding but the experiences and rewards at the end of the journey are endless. Most importantly, you only get out what you put in, so put everything you have into it and you will benefit immensely.
Have you enjoyed your time at the AZWH?: I have had a great experience at the hospital and got to see a wide range of patients, from green tree frogs to green sea turtles, carpet pythons, kookaburras and most of all the koalas!
Name: Hugo Murrell
From: Brisbane
University: University of Queensland
Prac Studies: 31st January - 4th February 2011
Why the AZWH?: I thought it would be interesting and I hoped to learn some basics in treating wildlife in general practice.
Goals: To start working in mixed practice and eventually becoming an equine practitioner.
Memorable Patient: "Mudslyd" the wedge tail eagle
Advice: Have fun, don't take any of it too seriously.
Have you enjoyed your time at the AZWH?: It has been interesting, thank you.
Name: Bethany Price
From: Brisbane
University: University of Queensland
Prac Studies: 31st January - 4th February 2011
Why the AZWH?: I chose to do practical work at the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital as being a mixed practice vet in rural/semi-rural regions a baseline knowledge of wildlife is expected as often the animals will come straight to you. To be able to gain practical experience with wildlife is very important, so not every single case has to be a euthanasia case.
Goals: To become competent as a mixed practice pet and from there hopefully specialise in either equine internal medicine or small animal medicine.
Memorable Patient: "Mudslyd" the wedge tail eagle
Advice: Don't close down doors too quickly. So often you think you may be destined to only work with small animals and end up thoroughly enjoying say equine medicine, or wildlife medicine!
Have you enjoyed your time at the AZWH?: Yes, it has been good. Thanks!
Name: Jamie Hamilton
From: Perth, WA
University: Murdoch University
Prac Studies: 24th January - 28th January 2011
Why the AZWH?: I have a keen interest in conservation and the wildlife hospital is unique and at the forefront of veterinary conservation efforts.
Goals: I hope to further my studies in conservation and work with endangered animals around the world.
Memorable Patient: Many memorable patients were at the hospital during my visit. If I had to choose, Aussie the koala would be a favourite. She was spritely and cantankerous, regardless of a nasty dog attack wound.
Advice: Learn as much as you can from the experienced staff at the hospital, because veterinary school lacks slightly in wildlife education.
Have you enjoyed your time at the AZWH?: Yes, immensely. I will hopefully come back to learn more one day.
Name: John Ham
From: Brisbane
University: Griffith University
Prac Studies: 17th January - 28th January 2011
Why the AZWH?: To increase my general clinical knowledge and experience with wildlife for future practice.
Goals: To become a mixed practice of small animal vet in the city or country.
Memorable Patient: Audrey the green sea turtle. She was admitted because she was found on the beach at Moreton Island. On examination she was found to have ingrown barnacles on her shell.
Advice: Make the most of 4th and 5th year by applying and involving yourself constantly.
Have you enjoyed your time at the AZWH?: Yes, it has been a really informative and enjoyable week.
Name: Sheridan Manion
From: Sarina Beach, Qld
University: James Cook University, Townsville
Prac Studies: 3rd January - 21st January 2011
Why the AZWH?: I am very interested in wildlife and exotic animal treatments. I hope to specialise in these fields in the future.
Goals: I would like to travel and volunteer at vet practises around the world. I have already volunteered at Esther Honey Clinic in Rarotonga and hope to go to a Galapagos Islands clinic later in the year.
Memorable Patient: It is very hard to choose as I have had many memorable learning experiences at the hospital. I particularly enjoyed working with the native birds and sea turtles. But the cutest patient was Harmony the koala. She had a small hole in the roof of her mouth connecting it to her nasal cavaity, leaving her at risk of aspiration every time she drank. Over my three weeks at the hospital I saw a big improvement in her condition. I also got lots of cuddle time with her when she was recovering from anaesthetic!
Advice: Veterinary science is a very hard degree, but if you really want it and are willing to put in the effort it is worth it in the end! Also, be sure to choose your clinical placements well, it pays off and you will get to experience amazing places like the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital.
Have you enjoyed your time at the AZWH?: Yes, very much! I have learnt so much about wildlife including alments, treatments and how to handle them. All the staff were very willing to teach me and I felt I was working with a very experienced group of animal professionals.
Name: Michael Valentine
From: Sunshine Coast
University: University of Queensland
Prac Studies: 20th December 2010 - 24th December 2010
Why the AZWH?: Although I have enjoyed my studies at university, I feel that vet students do not get enough education about how to assess and treat wildlife. I chose to do my prac at the AZWH because I wanted to broaden my knowledge about the treatment of wildlife in a setting that I knew would provide a first class example of best practice in wildlife medicine and surgery.
Goals: To graduate as a veterinarian who is able to provide the best quality care to all animals great and small, wildlife, production or domestic. My time at the AZWH has made me realise a passion for the provision of best quality care to those animals that are amongst the most vulnerable within our ever-expanding and industrialised world... WILDLIFE.
Memorable Patient: Experiencing the passion of the countless volunteers (from all walks of life) who dedicate countless hours of their time to the AZWH in order to ensure the protection, safety, welfare and health of Australia's wildlife... Good on you guys!
Advice: When you graduate do not be dismayed when an injured wild animal presents at your practice door. The AZWH is only a phone call away and the vets and nurses working there are an oracle knowledge. They will be more than willing to offer advice on how to administer appropriate treatment, and where possible will likely be ale to treat the animal themselves.
Have you enjoyed your time at the AZWH?: My time at the AZWH has been awesome. The vets, nurses and ancilliary staff are so knowledgeable about how to treat and care for the unfortunate animals that end up having to come to the AZWH for treatment and rehabilitation. All your staff and volunteers have a true passion for the work they are doing and I have found this to be a truly inspiring experience.
Name: Lisa Sedlaczek
From: Germany
University:Justus-Liebeg University, Giessen, Germany
Prac Studies: 29th November 2010 - 10th December 2010
Why the AZWH?: As I'm very interested in wildlife, I wanted to do my prac studies in a clinic which focuses on wildlife. Because of its unique variety of wildlife I thought Australia would be the best place to do it. I watched a TV show about the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital back in Germany and got interesting in their work.
Goals: I am not sure yet, whether I want to work with wildlife, horses or small animals. But because of this amazing experience in Australia, I can definitely see the medical care of wildlife as a future option for myself.
Memorable Patient: I think there have been too many to pick just one. I liked that I got to see so many different species and a huge range of cases. And of course it was always the best feeling, when the vets could save a patient's life. Getting so close to the koalas was really great as well. I was always surprised, that most of them weren't too scared of humans even though they are wild animals.
Advice: If you are interested in wildlife, I reckon that there's no better place to learn about it than Australia. As the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital takes care of so many patients and is as well-equipped as a good small animal clinic, it is definitely worth a visit for your prac studies. If you decide to come here though, make sure to stay longer than a week, because one week is just not long enough.
Have you enjoyed your time at the AZWH?: I had an amazing time at the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital, even though there were a few students at the same time. Nonetheless the vets and nurses always answered any questions I had and also got me to help them with the lab work and x-rays. During my tijme at the hospital I also got the chance to improve my skills at giving injections, drawing blood and euthanizing an animal. I really liked working with all the wildlife here and I feel that I've learned quite a lot about wild animal medicine.
Name: Andres Townsend
From:Peru
University: University of Queensland
Prac Studies: 22nd November 2010 - 3rd December 2010
Why the AZWH?: It's funny, in a way, this is why I came to Australia. I knew I wanted to be a veterinarian since I was very young and I grew up watching Steve Irwin on TV. I always admired him and his interminable will to help animals all over the world. I always looked up to him and wanted to follow his example. So for me having the opportunity to work here is a dream come true. Before I even came I knew this is what I wanted to do and I am very thankful it finally happened.
Goals: I plan to finish my degree and possibly find an internship on surgery. I dream of one day going to Africa and working there as a veterinarian. If not I would like to travel all over the world and nourish my knowledge by working with all sorts of animals. My objective is to continue giving the example that Steve Irwin gave me and try to continue his job of world conservation.
Memorable Patient: I think the most amazing thing I have witnessed in my short time at the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital would be the wonderful work that carers do and their enormous will to sacrifice their time and effort to help animals in need. I have met a lot of people of all ages and nationalities with one thing in common - that is helping animals. Not only the people that spend the entire day working in the hospital cleaning, feeding, organising and making sure the animals are in the best condition possible, but also the carers the adopt orphan joeys, young possums, bats, birds and injured animals which they take home and dedicate their time to make sure they survive. It is overwhelming how much these people care for their animals and it is really amazing how they keep on bringing them to the hospital for every check up with only one objective, which is to finally release them. I really think these are the most important people and the ones that really took my breath away.
Advice: To follow your dreams, to pursue what you want in life and don't let anything keep you from that. I will recommend to all vet students to at least try working with wildlife even though it is probably not in your plans. This is a very difficult job but when an animal is saved and released into their habitat it's the most rewarding thing ever. I can say that working in the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital was not only a dream come true, but I have also learned a lot of things and made great friends. This is an opportunity that no one should miss and I can assure you no one will regret.
Have you enjoyed your time at the AZWH?: For a veterinarian, and I am sure that for most of the people working in the hospital, this is a serious job and there is no time to waste. Animals are being injured or worse, are left orphaned and it depends on us to give them quality of life and a chance of being released. Although there is always a time to lay back and joke with colleagues, once a patient arrives it becomes the centre of attention and everybody concentrates to try to do the best for him. In this tiype of job time passes really fast and you are able to work with very competent people that work as a team and do everything they can for the wellbeing of the animal. It is a constant rush and I love it.
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