Location:

Tena, Ecuador

Program Type:

Study Abroad

Degree Level:

Undergraduate

Term:

Summer

Program Overview

Program Description:

The two-week Amazon Veterinary Service Program is based at amaZOOnico, a wildlife rescue center located in the Ecuadorian Amazon rainforest that rehabilitates, reintroduces, and cares for animals who are victims of wildlife trafficking. In addition to learning about the animals of the Amazon and their conservation and care, you’ll also help to put on a free medical clinic for dogs and cats of the local community and get a chance to explore some of the most popular sites of Quito and Tena on this Ecuador adventure.

The program course, “Conservation of Amazon Wildlife”, is a 3-credit course that includes observing and learning about the animals at amaZOOnico and learning from your veterinary (DVM) trip leader in the classroom and in the rescue center.

Highlights:

• Live in the Ecuadorian Amazon
• Care for coatis, toucans, tapirs, and other Amazonian animals
• Research and create enrichments for monkeys
• Perform veterinary labs such as coprological exams and necropsies
• Help to provide free pet care and spay and neuter surgeries for locals
• Enjoy a fun weekend of rafting and caving in Tena
• Explore in and around Quito, including the Mitad del Mundo 
• Learn and practice veterinary Spanish (no experience required)

College credit is available. 

Participants will earn 50 veterinary hours and 10 research hours. You will receive a certificate for 70 service hours upon program completion.

Setting Description:

Program housing will include hostels or guesthouses in Quito and Tena on travel weekends. During our time in the Amazon, you will stay at a small guest lodge that is approximately a 10-minute walk through the rainforest from amaZOOnico. You will share rooms with students of the same gender but will have your own bed. The lodge has electricity in the main common area and hot water in all showers, but it does not have air conditioning. While there is internet and cell signal available for emergency communications, there is not a reliable option for personal use.

Cost:

Tuition is all-inclusive, less airfare.

Additional Program Information

Requirements:

The program is open to anyone age 18-23. Each group of up to 8-10 students will have its own veterinarian and the groups will share site staff. All programming is in English – no Spanish skills are required (but if you have them, you’ll definitely use them!)

Scholarships:

Yes

Scholarships Description:

Need-based scholarships and aid are available. Details can be found on our website or by contacting us for more information.