Veterinary Student Volunteer Program
The Amici Cannis Veterinary Student Volunteer Program offers students a unique opportunity to be fully immersed in the daily operations of a high‑impact nonprofit veterinary hospital. Designed to complement formal veterinary education, the program provides meaningful exposure to clinical practice, patient care, and hospital workflows in a supportive, hands‑on learning environment.
Student volunteers are integrated into every aspect of the hospital, working alongside our veterinary team and staff throughout their stay. Volunteers are welcome to observe and actively participate in medical case discussions, patient intake, diagnostics, treatment planning, hospital rounds, and post‑operative care. Under the guidance of our doctors and technicians, students gain valuable insight into clinical decision‑making, case management, and the collaborative nature of veterinary medicine.
While student volunteers do not perform surgical procedures, they are encouraged to observe surgeries, assist with patient preparation and recovery, and engage in discussions that deepen their understanding of anesthesia, surgical protocols, and operative outcomes. This approach ensures a safe, ethical learning experience while maximizing educational value.
Beyond clinical exposure, volunteers gain firsthand experience in a purpose‑built veterinary hospital serving a diverse community, offering a broader perspective on animal welfare, public health, and veterinary medicine in an international context.
The Veterinary Student Volunteer Program is ideal for students seeking immersive learning, mentorship, and a deeper understanding of how compassionate, high‑quality veterinary care is delivered—both inside and beyond the exam room.
Testimonials
"If you have the opportunity to work with Amici Cannis in Ecuador, take full advantage of everything the foundation, town, and country have to offer. Amici Cannis runs life-changing programs unlike anything I’ve seen, from vaccine campaigns in indigenous communities to the interactive Be Kind program for schoolchildren. The team is incredibly talented, empathetic, and resourceful. Their efforts focus on building community with compassion, and it’s truly inspiring to witness and be part of them."
Gloria Becerra-Cortes,
University of California, Davis -
DVM Candidate | Class of 2028

