Economico Animal Hospital, CA

This elective experience takes place in a dynamic veterinary hospital that bridges the gap between general practice (GP) and emergency medicine. Our hospital specializes in small animal care, primarily focusing on feline and canine patients. As a hybrid facility, we provide comprehensive wellness and preventive care while also managing urgent cases and emergencies.

Students participating in this elective will gain hands-on experience in a fast-paced clinical setting, where they will be exposed to a diverse caseload ranging from routine GP appointments to complex medical cases requiring urgent intervention. Our hospital is equipped to handle a variety of surgical procedures, including both soft tissue and orthopedic surgeries. This provides an excellent opportunity to observe and assist in surgical procedures, anesthesia monitoring, and perioperative care.

Participants will engage in client communication, diagnostic procedures, and treatment planning under the supervision of experienced veterinarians. The elective will also provide exposure to in-house laboratory diagnostics, radiology, and advanced patient care protocols. This experience is ideal for individuals looking to enhance their clinical skills, critical thinking, and adaptability in a setting that blends the structure of general practice with the unpredictability of emergency medicine.

Our hospital is well-equipped to provide students with a comprehensive learning experience in both general practice and emergency medicine.

• Staffing: Our team consists of experienced veterinarians, licensed veterinary technicians, veterinary assistants, and client service representatives who work collaboratively to provide high-quality patient care. Students will have the opportunity to learn from GP veterinarians, gaining insight into a wide range of medical and surgical cases.
• Equipment & Facilities: The hospital is equipped with digital radiography, ultrasound, in-house laboratory (CBC, chemistry, urinalysis, cytology), anesthesia monitoring equipment (ECG, pulse oximetry, capnography, blood pressure monitoring), and a fully stocked pharmacy. Our surgical suite supports both soft tissue and orthopedic procedures, offering students exposure to a variety of surgical techniques.
• Educational Support: Students will have access to case discussions, rounds with veterinarians, and hands-on training in diagnostics and treatment protocols. Our team is committed to fostering a supportive learning environment where students can ask questions, develop clinical skills, and gain confidence in their decision-making abilities. 

Students participating in this elective experience are expected to commit to a structured schedule that ensures they gain hands-on exposure to both general practice and emergency cases.

• Hours & Schedule: Students are expected to work approximately 8 hours per shift, with shifts typically covering 5 days per week. Or 10 hours per shift and 4 days per week completing about 40 hours per week. Given our hybrid hospital model, students may be scheduled for a mix of daytime general practice shifts and evening or weekend urgent care shifts.
• Shadowing vs. Hands-On Support: While initial shifts may focus on shadowing to understand hospital workflow and protocols, students are encouraged to actively participate in patient care as their comfort and knowledge grow. This includes assisting with diagnostics, treatments, and surgical procedures under supervision.
• Clinical Involvement: Students will engage in client communication, triaging urgent cases, participating in patient assessments, assisting in surgeries (soft tissue and orthopedic), monitoring anesthesia, and contributing to hospitalized patient care.
• Professionalism: Students are expected to demonstrate a proactive attitude, maintain professionalism in client and team interactions, and adhere to hospital protocols, including dress code and hygiene standards.

1451 W Artesia Blvd Suite #3
Gardena, CA 90248
United States