Veterinary Internship in Lisbon, Portugal

According to the national census for stray animals in 2023, there are an estimated 930,000 stray animals across Portugal, including 101,015 dogs and 830,541 cats. Often these animals are sick, starving, and rummaging through human waste, while reproducing uncontrollably and being defenseless against random acts of violence by humans. In recent years, numerous organizations in Portugal have launched initiatives to reduce the number of strays, including sterilization programs and awareness campaigns. However, approximately 42,000 animals are taken in annually, with only about 25,000 being adopted. Around 2,000 animals must be euthanized due to incurable illnesses, leaving approximately 15,000 animals in shelters.

As part of the veterinary internship at a nonprofit organization, you will help address this issue through your efforts. Your tasks will depend on your knowledge and experience in veterinary medicine. Students and graduates in veterinary medicine (or related fields) as well as participants aged 16 and older with no prior experience are welcome. During the internship, you will have a qualified supervisor. You will typically work 5 - 7 hours per day, Monday through Friday, with the exact schedule coordinated with the hosting organization.

Your tasks as an intern

Your responsibilities will vary based on your expertise. A key aspect of the internship is the development of skills in clinical case management. You will learn to monitor, evaluate, and discuss clinical cases, improving your diagnostic abilities and decision-making skills in real veterinary scenarios. These competencies are essential for handling animal patients and pet owners.

Another focus of the internship is surgical assistance and related techniques. You will assist with sterilizations, gaining practical skills in surgical procedures, aseptic techniques, and postoperative care.

Additionally, you will participate in various basic treatments, such as blood collection or bandage changes. This will help you build a strong foundation in administering and managing veterinary care. You will not only learn technical skills but also develop a responsible approach to working with animals in various treatment situations.

A particularly important aspect of this internship is the commitment to animal welfare. You will actively contribute to the care of neglected and abused animals, gaining a deep understanding of the ethical considerations and responsibilities associated with providing veterinary care in non-profit settings.

By working in an international or local non-profit environment, you will learn how veterinary practices can vary across different cultural and socio-economic contexts. 

At the end of the internship, you will receive a certificate of completion.

In addition to professional experience, the internship offers the opportunity to immerse yourself in Portugal’s rich culture. On your days off, you can explore the local way of life, experience traditional festivals, and savor culinary delights. By interacting with local professionals and other interns from various countries, you will establish valuable international connections that not only expand your professional network but also foster personal friendships.

How do you apply?

After booking the program, we will schedule a call to get to know you and find the most suitable internship placement for you. As soon as we found a suitable internship, you will receive more information about the proposed organization as well as the next steps.