WildeMalawi, MALAWI

Description of Elective Experience

Live the ultimate wildlife and veterinary experience in Malawi! 

Join a passionate team at Malawi’s leading wildlife rescue sanctuary and clinic, working alongside a qualified wildlife vet and gaining hands-on experience with some of Africa’s most iconic species. 

From annual health checks and rescue intakes to suture work, sample analysis, and patient monitoring, you'll be immersed in real-world veterinary care. 

Expand your skills further by assisting in domestic animal outreach through the LSCPA—treating livestock, taking part in spay and neuter programs, and supporting rural communities. 

Deepen your knowledge through expert-led lectures on wildlife health, including parasitology, primate medicine, emergency care, pharmacology, and remote capture techniques

Between fieldwork, unwind at the sanctuary with full-board accommodation, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the animals you’re helping. 

Cap off your adventure with a thrilling 2-day/1-night safari through the spectacular Liwonde National Park

This is more than just volunteering—it’s conservation, education, and adventure rolled into one unforgettable journey.

Institutional and Educational Resources - staffing, equipment, etc.

1. Staffing and Supervision

  • Wildlife Veterinary Team:
    • One qualified wildlife veterinarian responsible for overseeing all wildlife clinical procedures, fieldwork, and student supervision.
    • One veterinary nurse providing clinical support in wildlife care.
    • Veterinary interns may be present, contributing to daily operations and assisting with care under supervision.
  • Domestic Animal Veterinary Team:
    • One qualified domestic veterinarian leading community outreach and clinical programs focused on livestock and companion animals.
    • Two veterinary nurses supporting domestic animal clinical work and outreach activities.
    • Interns may also assist within the domestic veterinary team.
  • Wildlife Rehabilitation Staff:
    • A dedicated wildlife rehabilitation care manager oversees the rehabilitation and recovery of injured or orphaned wildlife.
    • Additional trained staff support rehabilitation, husbandry, and enrichment programs.

2. Clinical and Field Equipment

  • Comprehensive veterinary clinic facilities equipped for diagnostics, treatment, and minor surgical procedures.
  • Veterinary instruments and supplies necessary for wound care, suturing, sample collection, and monitoring.
  • Immobilization and capture equipment for safe handling of wildlife.
  • Laboratory facilities for sample analysis, including parasitology.
  • Medical supplies and pharmaceuticals appropriate for both wildlife and domestic animals.
  • Field vehicles and equipment to support outreach programs and remote clinical interventions.

3. Facilities and Infrastructure

  • On-site veterinary clinic and wildlife rehabilitation centre equipped to handle a variety of species and clinical needs.
  • Full-board accommodation for students within the sanctuary grounds, providing a safe and immersive learning environment.
  • Access to lecture rooms and seminar spaces for educational sessions and case discussions.
  • Partnership with National Parks for extended field experience and releases when applicable.

4. Educational Resources

  • Structured lectures and workshops delivered by experienced veterinarians and conservation specialists, covering wildlife health, emergency care, pharmacology, and remote capture techniques.
  • Practical training opportunities in veterinary procedures, animal handling, and rehabilitation.
  • Educational materials and reference resources to support student learning.
  • Supervised clinical case management and reflective learning sessions.
Student Responsibilities - what is expected of students in terms of hours, days of the week, shadowing or actual support?

WildeMalawi is offered as a 7 day course that includes wildlife veterinary education only, or extend to a 14 day course that includes both wildlife and domestic learning. Each day includes working with the wildlife vet for all new patient intake and resident animal medical care, and domestic vet for both small and large animal care and surgeries. 

Supervisor
Kasey Pedersen (Wilde Tracks contact)
Contact email
Address

Kenyatta Rd
Lilongwe
Malawi

Is student housing available?
Yes
Hours of supervision by a licensed veterinarian per week
30+
Global engagement opportunity
Yes
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