Muddy Paws Rescue, a 100% foster-based dog rescue in New York City, offers a 2–4 week externship designed to provide veterinary students with immersive training in anesthesia, surgery, pain management, and shelter medicine. Unlike traditional shelter programs, we do not house dogs onsite, which allows students to focus on individualized care, surgical efficiency, and anesthetic monitoring. Students rotate through both anesthesia and surgery roles, gaining hands-on experience with pre-anesthetic exams, patient prep, monitoring, recovery, and selected surgical procedures under direct veterinary supervision. The program accepts up to four students per block, with priority for clinical-year students, and is especially suited for those with a strong interest in surgical practice within a community rescue setting.
Externs work alongside a small but dedicated medical team that includes one full-time veterinarian, one licensed veterinary technician, and one veterinary assistant. The clinic performs approximately 25–30 procedures weekly, including spays/neuters, dentals, and soft tissue surgeries such as mass removals, amputations, and cystotomies, in addition to providing affordable services for partner rescues. Facilities include a fully equipped surgical suite (CRIs are often used), X-ray capabilities, and advanced anesthesia monitoring systems (capnography, EKG, dopper and oscilometric BP, SPO2). Students benefit from two weekly lectures (1 hour each) on anesthesia, surgery, pain management, and shelter medicine, paired with reading assignments that reinforce core concepts and maximize practical learning.
Externs are expected to arrive by 8:00 a.m. Monday through Thursday and stay until the clinic closes, typically around 6:00 p.m., with staggered lunch breaks provided. Students assist with pre-operative exams, anesthesia planning, IV catheter placement, aseptic prep, and patient monitoring, as well as recovery care including vitals and pain scoring. Opportunities for student-performed surgery may be available for select foster animals, contingent on prior experience and demonstrated competency. Externs may also assist with non-surgical appointments such as blood draws, wellness exams, and vaccinations. To prepare, students must complete assigned readings in advance and be self-motivated, as in-person hours are primarily devoted to hands-on learning. Fridays through Sundays are free, giving students a three-day weekend to rest and explore the city.
821 9th Ave
FRNT 1
New York, NY 10019
United States