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Paws & Tusks: Veterinary Conservation Experience at Adventures With Elephants

Get Hands-On Experience with Wildlife in the Heart of South Africa

Adventures With Elephants invites veterinary students to participate in an exclusive Paws & Tusks: Veterinary Conservation Experience designed to provide up-close and hands-on experience with some of Africa’s most iconic wildlife. This immersive program offers a unique opportunity to work alongside expert handlers, conservationists, and a local wildlife veterinarian while gaining valuable insight into elephant care, cheetah and rhino conservation, and wildlife medical treatments.

 

Program Highlights:

  • Elephant Care & Behavior Training: Learn how Adventures With Elephants uses the ask-and-reward system for medical treatments, behavior management, and daily care.
  • Cheetah & Rhino Conservation: Assist in conservation efforts, gaining firsthand experience in the protection and well-being of these magnificent species.
  • Wildlife Veterinary Exposure: Spend time with a local wildlife vet, learning about the special needs of wildlife care and assisting in routine and emergency medical procedures.
  • Venomous Snake Handling includes First Aid for Snake Bite
  • Bushveld Experience: Engage in practical, field-based learning in an authentic South African bush environment, providing a deep understanding of wildlife behavior, management, and conservation.

 

What’s Included?

  • Backpacker-Style Accommodation: Comfortable, shared accommodation with access to essential amenities.
  • Daily Meals & Chef: Nutritious meals prepared by an in-house chef.
  • Transport: All necessary transport for program activities.
  • Daily Cleaner: Ensuring a clean and comfortable living space during your stay.
  • Guided Learning & Practical Involvement: Hands-on training, mentorship, and interaction with experienced professionals.

 

Cost & Enquiries

 

This program is an invaluable opportunity for veterinary students seeking practical, real-world experience in wildlife medicine, conservation, and behavioral management. Whether your passion lies in wildlife rehabilitation, field conservation, or veterinary science, this experience will provide the knowledge, skills, and connections to enhance your future career.

 

Join Us!

Take part in this once-in-a-lifetime veterinary student program and contribute to meaningful wildlife conservation. Limited spaces are available—apply today!

10 Day Veterinarian Program

Day 1: Arrival & Acclimatization

– Airport Transfer: Travel from the airport to Adventures With Elephants.
– Accommodation: Settle into the Backpackers-style lodging featuring a boma and
swimming pool.
– Orientation Session: Safety briefing, program overview, and a chance to meet fellow
participants.
– Evening: Authentic South African Braai (barbeque) around the boma fire, featuring local
flavors and a warm welcome to the African bushveld.

Day 2: Elephant Care & Behavior Training

– Meet the Herd: Introduction to the Adventures With Elephants family.
– Training Workshop: Learn about the ask-and-reward system used for:
– Medical treatments
– Behavioral management
– Daily care routines
– Hands-On Experience: Participate in feeding, grooming, and health checks.

Day 3: MHERA – Emotional Well-being in Animals

– Workshop Overview: Introduction to MHERA (Mental Health and Emotional Risk
Assessment) – a practical framework for evaluating an animal's emotional state.
– Skills Training: Learn to assess and address behavioral and emotional needs in elephants
and other wildlife.
– Case Studies: Review real examples and observe the application of MHERA in the field.

Day 4: Venomous Snake Handling & First Aid

– Safety Briefing: Introduction to the local snake species and their ecological role.
– Handling Course: Learn safe and humane handling techniques.
– First Aid Training:
– Identifying venomous species
– Emergency procedures in case of snake bites
– Field first-aid kits and protocols

Days 5 - 7: Wildlife Veterinary Exposure

– Field Work: Shadow a local wildlife veterinarian.
– Learning Modules:
– Routine health checks on wildlife
– Emergency medical procedures
– Darting and sedation techniques
– Practical Experience: Assist in treating various species, gaining hands-on veterinary skills.

Days 8 - 9: Cheetah & Rhino Conservation

– Cheetah Conservation:
– Learn about cheetah behavior and conservation challenges.
– Assist in feeding and health monitoring.
– Rhino Conservation:
– Participate in anti-poaching efforts.
– Involvement in health assessments and horn trimming (if scheduled).
– Insights into the complex care and protection of rhinos.

Day 10: Farewell & Departure

– Morning: Relax and enjoy final moments with the elephants.
– Shopping: Visit local craft markets for souvenirs.
– Transfer: Return journey to the airport for departure.

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