VETERINARY EXTERNSHIP PROGRAM

Veterinary externship program 

A collaboration with Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine – Tufts University

Education

Amici Cannis is committed to educating future generations about compassionate care and treatment of dogs and cats. We offer educational programs for all ages and abilities including humane education programs for Indigenous Peoples, a Pre-Vet Internship Program for students in Ecuador, and an externship program in collaboration with Tufts University.

Education

Amici Cannis is committed to educating future generations about compassionate care and treatment of dogs and cats. We offer educational programs for all ages and abilities including humane education programs for Indigenous Peoples, a Pre-Vet Internship Program for students in Ecuador, and an externship program in collaboration with Tufts University.

Amici Cannis Hospital is one of just 3 prestigious International Alum-Student Service Program options offered to Tufts Veterinary students for class credits toward their Veterinary Degree. The Tufts Externship Program is a 2-week opportunity for Veterinary students to experience hands-on surgical training and medical case handling, which veterinary school programs in the United States are trying to increase. 

Externs are partnered with Tufts Volunteer Veterinary Alumni, who are part of the integral training and mentorship of the veterinary student during the first week. The goal upon completion of the two-week intensive surgical program is that students have achieved the ability to independently sterilize dogs and cats, knowledge of medical case handling, and experience in other basic veterinary procedures while learning the cultural diversity of Ecuador as compared to a North American style of veterinary medicine.

Humane Education

When you teach an individual to be kind to animals, you pave the way to a brighter future for all living beings. Animals benefit because the next generation will treat them with respect and compassion. Children benefit because learning compassion and empathy builds moral character, reduces violence, and strengthens their sense of empowerment and responsibility. Society as a whole benefits when members respect and care for one another, and the animals who live among us.


Amici Cannis’ humane education programs teach children and adults how to be caring, thoughtful, respectful stewards of our world. Programs include workshops and school presentations.

Humane Education

When you teach an individual to be kind to animals, you pave the way to a brighter future for all living beings. Animals benefit because the next generation will treat them with respect and compassion. Children benefit because learning compassion and empathy builds moral character, reduces violence, and strengthens their sense of empowerment and responsibility. Society as a whole benefits when members respect and care for one another, and the animals who live among us.


Amici Cannis’ humane education programs teach children and adults how to be caring, thoughtful, respectful stewards of our world. Programs include workshops and school presentations.

Testimonials

"Practicing in Ecuador has enhanced my skills as a veterinarian by exposing me to new ideas and treatment plants not commonly seen in the US. I have been able to treat diseases not found in New England, create anesthesia protocols with limited drugs, and handle critical patients without all the resources available at a US academic hospital."     - Claire Brunner, DVM Candidate, Class of 2024


"This experience was truly eye-opening for me. I had the opportunity to practice surgery and other hands-on skills, and to see a variety of consults and emergencies. The staff at Amici Cannis, and the people in Cotacachi were so welcoming. My time in Ecuador has inspired me to participate in more community service trips like this one, to provide services for spay/neuter, and I would love to return as an alumnus!"    - Melissa Mello,

DVM Candidate, Class of 2024


"The experience for both the mentoring veterinarian and the veterinary student in this externship program is truly amazing, educational and unmatched. The soon-to-be doctor I had the honor of mentoring gained immense medical knowledge and empathy while helping the animals and people of Cotacachi. I was so inspired by the experience with the Ecuadorian veterinarians, staff, animals and people that I began volunteering more in my community at home as well as planning on participating in this program and returning to Ecuador every year."    - Dr. Marian Schenk, Alumnus - Tufts Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine

Pre-Vet Internship Program

In the spirit of systemic change, Amici Cannis offers the Pre-Vet Internship Program (PVIP) for students who show an aptitude and desire to pursue a career path in veterinary care. This program gives students an opportunity to build their skills, resumes, and university applications, ultimately opening the door to a brighter future.

Pre-Vet Internship Program

In the spirit of systemic change, Amici Cannis offers the Pre-Vet Internship Program (PVIP) for students who show an aptitude and desire to pursue a career path in veterinary care. This program gives students an opportunity to build their skills, resumes, and university applications, ultimately opening the door to a brighter future.

Collaboration with Tufts University

The Tufts Program Externship is a 2-week opportunity for Tufts Veterinary students to experience hands-on surgical training and medical case handling in a beautiful Ecuadorian town surrounded by indigenous culture.  Externs are partnered with a Tufts Volunteer Veterinary Alumni, who participate in the training and mentorship. Following this program,  externs will have learned how to provide high-quality veterinary care in low-income and remote areas.

Collaboration with Tufts University

The Tufts Program Externship is a 2-week opportunity for Tufts Veterinary students to experience hands-on surgical training and medical case handling in a beautiful Ecuadorian town surrounded by indigenous culture.  Externs are partnered with a Tufts Volunteer Veterinary Alumni, who participate in the training and mentorship. Following this program,  externs will have learned how to provide high-quality veterinary care in low-income and remote areas.

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