Join the Frontlines of Saving Wildlife in Laos
Step into a state-of-the-art wildlife hospital in Laos, where rescued animals receive urgent care and rehabilitation before returning to the wild. Here, the focus is on the animals, from critical rescue cases needing immediate intervention to individuals undergoing longer-term rehabilitation in preparation for release. With modern veterinary technology and a hands-on clinical environment, the hospital provides care for a wide range of native species and offers real exposure to wildlife medicine in action.
As part of a small, close-knit team, you’ll be involved in day-to-day hospital operations and treatment of wildlife patients. From monitoring recovery and assisting with procedures to supporting rehabilitation efforts, you’ll work closely with animals whose needs change from day to day, each with their own story. This role provides meaningful exposure to real cases and the opportunity to build confidence in a supportive environment.
Outside of your clinical work, you’ll experience the relaxed pace and natural beauty of Laos in a setting that reflects the environment these animals are being prepared to return to.
Your responsibilities & learning opportunities
- Veterinary Support: Assist with treatments, procedures, and daily clinical duties alongside experienced veterinary staff in a busy wildlife hospital.
- Animal Care & Welfare: Support feeding, husbandry, and daily care for a variety of wildlife patients, including injured, sick, and recovering animals with different clinical needs.
- Rehabilitation Support: Assist with the care and monitoring of animals undergoing rehabilitation, contributing to their preparation for potential release.
- Operational Support: Maintain strict hygiene and biosecurity standards and ensure accurate medical and husbandry records.
- Work Schedule: Expect to work from 7:00 am to 4:00 pm six days per week, with flexibility required for emergencies, rescues, and incoming wildlife cases outside standard hours.
- Academic Support: We provide guidance for academic requirements and offer supervision and mentorship from qualified on-site veterinary professionals who can support project ideas and learning objectives.
♥ FULL-TIME, VOLUNTEER BASIS
♥ DURATION: min. 4 WEEKS
♥ LOCATION: XIENGLETHA VILLAGE, LAOS
♥ TRAINING PROVIDED
♥ PROFESSIONAL VET CLINIC
♥ £1,530 / 4 weeks (ACCOMMODATION & FOOD)
Please get in touch if you have any questions
[email protected]
Beyond the Hospital: Exploring Northern Laos
The wildlife hospital is based in Xiengletha, a rural area in northern Laos surrounded by forest, farmland, and natural vegetation. This landscape is not just a backdrop to the work but the environment from which many wildlife cases come, creating a clear connection between clinical care and conservation in the field.
Outside of work, life takes on a slower, more immersive rhythm. Free time is often spent exploring the surrounding countryside, walking forest trails, visiting nearby rivers and waterfalls, or simply taking in the natural surroundings. Interns also have opportunities to experience local life, from village markets to traditional activities such as drum-making workshops.
Evenings can include night walks through the forest, where the sounds and movement of wildlife offer a completely different perspective of the environment. Occasional trips to nearby towns provide a contrast, with small cafés and a glimpse into everyday life in northern Laos.
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START DATES:
All arrivals and departures are on Sunday morning.
Interns are accepted all year round.
MINIMUM AGE FOR THIS PROJECT: 18 years