WildeVet, SOUTH AFRICA

Embark on an unforgettable adventure in wildlife conservation, where you'll dive into hands-on experiences with expert veterinarians. 

For 10 days you will become a wildlife vet - shadowing a qualified wildlife vet with over 20 years experience. You'll assist with thrilling tasks like rhino dehorning and predator collaring, removing snares, treating wounds. translocating animals, and more - all while gaining firsthand insight into wildlife management. 

Guided bush walks will teach you how to identify animal tracks and signs, while you'll also have the unique opportunity to learn reptile medicine, diagnosing and treating reptiles, as well participating in calls out when occurring and snake handling.

As part of the program, you'll support a local domestic animal outreach clinic, providing vital care and gaining valuable experience in field operations. 

Throughout your journey, you’ll participate in a necropsy when available, deepening your understanding of wildlife health and disease management, and continue contributing to fieldwork and ongoing animal care. 

Your adventure will take you to the iconic destination of Kruger National Park, where you'll experience South Africa’s stunning wildlife and landscapes up close. 

At the Endangered Species Centre, you’ll learn about critical conservation and rehabilitation efforts aimed at protecting endangered species. 

You'll also have the chance to take part in game capture operations, learning key wildlife management techniques in the field. To top off your experience, you'll receive helicopter safety training and get the chance to dart animals from the air, offering a unique perspective on wildlife conservation.

1. Staffing and Supervision

• Qualified wildlife veterinarian (program lead and clinical supervisor)
• Licensed domestic animal veterinarian
• Specialist veterinarians and care takers (e.g., reptile medicine, wildlife rehabilitation)
• Conservation and game capture professionals
• Program coordinator and logistical support staff

2. Clinical and Field Equipment

• Dart guns (CO₂-powered, gas-powered, and helicopter-compatible)
• Telemetry equipment for animal tracking and monitoring
• Immobilization and tranquilization drugs (administered under supervision)
• PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) for fieldwork
• Capture and transport equipment (nets, crates, stretchers, trailers)
• Veterinary kits for field diagnostics and treatment
• Surgical instruments and supplies for minor procedures and necropsies

3. Facilities and Infrastructure

• Mobile veterinary units for field operations
• On-site wildlife holding and recovery enclosures
• Access to local veterinary clinics for domestic animal outreach
• Accommodation with comfortable amenities for students and staff
• Transport vehicles equipped for field travel

4. Educational Resources

• Theoretical lectures on:
  • Wildlife conservation and ecology
  • Ethical wildlife capture and handling
  • Species-specific anatomy, physiology, and disease
  • Zoonoses and One Health principles
• Case discussions and debriefs after field procedures
• Access to reading materials, research articles, and field guides
• Certificates of participation and performance feedback

5. Partner Sites and Collaborations

• Endangered species rehabilitation and release centers
• National parks (e.g., Kruger National Park) and private game reserves
• Community outreach partnerships for domestic animal care
• Local conservation NGOs and academic institutions

WildeVet is a 10 day course that includes shadowing the wildlife vet each day. A full day in Kruger National Park is included, as well as a behind the scenes tour of the wildlife rehabilitation centre, a full day course on reptile veterinary medicine, necropsy (if available), domestic animal outreach clinic and darting from a helicopter are included. 

Old Gravelotte Rd
Tzaneen
0895
South Africa