At a glance
- Join our Veterinary Medicine Internship in Sri Lanka. This is a great opportunity to gain experience observing and assisting local vets and to add value to your CV.
- Either you will be placed in a government run or a private clinic that provides their services free charge, which enables disadvantaged people to access treatments for their animals. The clinics work with both domestic and farm animals and you will be able to witness different procedures and conditions.
- You will be living with a host family. This will be a good opportunity to get an insight into the local culture of Sri Lanka and make new memories and meet new people.
Is a Veterinary Medicine placement in Sri Lanka right for me?
Are you a student studying veterinary medicine? Or perhaps you’re a recent graduate looking for work experience? If so, this is the internship for you.
You will have the chance to learn directly from experienced vets. They’ll explain the illnesses and conditions you see, and walk you through their treatment methods. You’ll gain a deeper insight into how animals are cared for in developing countries. This will boost your CV, and give you interesting points to talk about in interviews and applications.
In addition to the guidance from your supervisor, you will also receive a thorough induction upon arrival. Our staff will make sure you’re prepared for the experience. Please note that the amount of hands-on work you can take part in depends on your experience and level of related studies.
This project is available year-round. Our start and end dates are flexible, so you can choose a time that suits you.
What will I do at my Veterinary Medicine placement in Sri Lanka?
During this internship, you’ll be able to work with both domestic and farm animals. You can get involved in:
- Observe local vets and veterinary staff as they go about their daily tasks
- Assist with minor procedures such as vaccinations or tests
- Take part in fieldwork and travel to farms
Your work will focus on the following areas:
Observe local vets and veterinary staff as they go about their daily tasks
You’ll observe vets and other staff going about their day. You will observe procedures, and we encourage you to ask questions and learn as much as you can from them. It’s a great way to broaden your knowledge of practical veterinary medicine.
Assist with minor procedures such as vaccinations or tests
Once you have settled in, you may have the chance to take part in more hands-on activities. This will depend on your previous experience and knowledge. You can assist with sterilising pets, giving vaccinations, testing for disease, and other minor procedures.
Take part in fieldwork and travel to farms
Sometimes, you may need to accompany vets on farm visits to treat goats, chickens, pigs, and cows. This is a great opportunity to gain field experience outside of the clinic environment. You might help vets to correct low cholesterol in the farm animals, check for infections, or administer injections.
Where in Sri Lanka will I work?
Colombo
On this placement, you’ll be based at veterinary clinics in the town of Kuliyapitiya. The town is situated around 80 km north of Colombo. You can either work at a government or a private clinic, which treat both domestic and farm animals.
Kuliyapitiya is a small town, but has all the amenities you might need. These include banks, restaurants, and convenience stores. It also has bus links to many other major cities in Sri Lanka, such as Colombo, Jaffna, and Anuradhapura.
Sri Lanka has much to offer visitors, from amazing natural wonders to historic and cultural monuments. For those who enjoy the outdoors, you can visit national parks, explore cave systems, and go scuba diving. Don’t miss out on a trip to one of the many ancient temples, bustling markets, and local restaurants.
A typical day on the Veterinary Medicine Project
A typical day on this internship runs from 8am - 1pm, if you’re based at a government clinic, and from 8am - 2pm at a private clinic, Monday to Friday. The private clinics also have an evening shift from 6pm - 9pm, usually for surgeries.
Your specific schedule and daily activities will vary according to the clinic you are placed at. The clinics mainly treat domestic animals on the premises. You will often travel with the vet out to farms to attend to animals such as cows, chickens, pigs, and goats.
Working under the supervision of qualified local vets, you’ll assist with a range of tasks during the day. These include spaying and neutering animals, giving injections and dispensing medication, and treating injured pets. The amount of hands-on work you will be given depends on your level of knowledge and experience.
Once you’re done for the day, you can soak in the atmosphere of the town. Spend time getting to know your host family over a delicious Sri Lankan style dinner. We run regular socials for our interns, where you can meet new people and take part in cultural activities. Or you can try out some of the local restaurants and visit nearby historic temples.
What are the aims and impact of this Veterinary Medicine Project?
The aim of this project is to provide you with a practical and educational experience.
Many of the people who join us on this placement are looking for hands-on experience which will prepare them for a career working with animals. You’ll get the chance to learn from skilled local professionals and take part in hands-on work in an entirely different environment.
There is also an altruistic dimension to this aspect. You’ll be treating domestic and farm animals, assisting in their recovery. Whether furry or feathered, you can play a vital role in their care. Furthermore, the government veterinary clinics provide their services for free. This means that many people who otherwise could not pay for treatment can now have their animals cared for.
Join us on a Veterinary Medicine Internship in Sri Lanka and build your skills in this field while enhancing your CV.
Measuring our impact
Our projects work towards clear long-term goals, with specific annual objectives. Every volunteer and intern we send to these projects helps us work towards these goals, no matter how long they spend on our projects.
Every year we take a step back and look at how much progress we've made towards these goals. We put together a Global Impact Report, which documents our achievements. Find out more about the impact our global community of volunteers, interns and staff make, and read the latest report.
Food and accommodation
You'll stay with a host family in Sri Lanka. They will welcome you into their home, eager to share their customs and have you teach them about your own culture. We believe that this is the best way to immerse yourself in the culture of Sri Lanka and have a truly unique experience.
We will always try to let you live alongside at least one other Projects Abroad volunteer or intern at the same host family. Your room will be modest, but comfortable, clean, and safe.
Your programme fee includes three meals a day.
Find out more about our accommodation.
Leisure activities and free time
Sri Lanka is well-known for its diverse landscapes. From beaches to tropical jungles, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant country.
The buzzing Pettah Market is a must-see. You can chat to friendly vendors, buy handmade products, and enjoy the electric atmosphere around you. For cultural enrichment, you can spend an afternoon in the National Museum of Colombo. The Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple is also a highlight, with its vast collection of artefacts.
The town of Galle is a sea port with a strong Dutch heritage and plenty of old colonial buildings to explore. You can also venture inland to hike in the hills, swim in the cool waterfalls, and visit traditional hill towns.
Sri Lanka's national parks include safari parks where you can spot wildlife like leopards and elephants. Or spend an early morning bird-watching in one of the wetland sanctuaries. There are also rainforest reserves crammed full of tropical biodiversity.
You’ll be sharing this unique experience with many other volunteers. This means you can travel solo or spend your free time with the friends you make during your trip.
Safety and staff support
Your safety and security is our prime concern. We have many procedures and systems to ensure you have the support you need to enjoy your trip with peace of mind. Our Projects Abroad staff are available 24 hours a day to help, and will be on hand to make sure you settle in well at your accommodation and placement. If you encounter any problems, they will be available to help at any time.
Find out more about safety and backup.
This placement is fully researched, safety audited, and risk assessed in accordance with the British Standard BS8848 for the Adventure Travel Sector.
Meet the team in Sri Lanka
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