from 565€

Great 4.4rating (17)

Veterinary Internship With Wildlife

location
1 - 12 weeks  ·  Age 18 - 50+

rating  Great 4.4  · 
  Verified by Volunteer World
  Very high response rate

Highlights

  • Students gain invaluable hands-on experience caring for a variety of species in one of the world's most biodiverse countries, Costa Rica, home to up to 6% of global biodiversity.
  • The program offers the opportunity to face daily challenges and learn by doing, with over 400 animals requiring care, allowing students to develop unique skills in tropical wildlife care.
  • Participation in this program adds significant value to students' careers, providing experiences that set them apart in the job market and potentially opening doors in zoos, parks, and rescue centers
  • Students not only work together but also create memories, sharing with peers from around the world and enjoying recreational and cultural activities such as visits beautiful beaches, vocanoes, etc
  • Cultural immersion is encouraged through weekly activities that allow students to learn about and appreciate Costa Rican culture and explore the country’s wonders on a personal level.

Especially suitable

Age 18+
Singles
Couples
Families
Groups
50+

About the program

The internship offers training in veterinary medicine, emphasizing wildlife care, rehabilitation techniques, and conservation practices in a vibrant sanctuary setting.

NATUWA Macaw Sanctuary stands as a beacon of hope in the verdant heart of Aranjuez, Puntarenas Province, Costa Rica—a tranquil country town renowned for its friendly locals and picturesque dirt roads. Our sanctuary emerges as a vital haven, providing refuge and a new lease on life to wild animals ...

About the program

NATUWA Macaw Sanctuary stands as a beacon of hope in the verdant heart of Aranjuez, Puntarenas Province, Costa Rica—a tranquil country town renowned for its friendly locals and picturesque dirt roads. Our sanctuary emerges as a vital haven, providing refuge and a new lease on life to wild animals that have fallen victim to the dire consequences of hunting, deforestation, and displacement from their natural habitats. Nestled in the lush landscapes of Costa Rica, our veterinary program offers a unique blend of hands-on wildlife care, cultural immersion, and practical veterinary education under the guidance of an esteemed veterinary doctor who leads our students through daily tasks with dedication and expertise.

Interns are welcomed into a structured program designed to span several months or a minimum of two weeks, offering a profound dive into the world of tropical wildlife rehabilitation and veterinary science. This commitment not only promises a transformative journey but also ensures that the skills and knowledge gained are comprehensive and deeply rooted in real-world experience. In the midst of this rich biodiversity, our Veterinary Internship Program unfolds as a critical component of our mission. Interns engage directly in the care and rehabilitation of our diverse inhabitants, which includes a myriad of exotic species: six species of macaw, including the vibrant Scarlet Macaw, a symbol of the wilderness of the Americas; umbrella cockatoos with their enchanting crests; four species of the chatty Amazon parrots; seven species of the nimble parakeets; the charismatic Eclectus parrots; and a variety of primates ranging from spider monkeys to the dexterous tamarin monkeys. Our enclosure also provides a safe habitat for terrestrial species like collared peccaries, graceful deer, sturdy tapirs, ocelots, and majestic jaguars.

Volunteers have the invaluable opportunity to become involved in specialized behavioral management for each species, a key technique that enhances the quality of life of our animals and provides volunteers with technical skills that are highly esteemed in the fields of veterinary medicine and wildlife conservation. You will acquire direct experience in methods such as targeted training, using non-injurious practice darts, and learn the delicate art of animal care, tailored to meet the varied needs of our animals, from the careful handling of macaws, which require training for flying and performing acrobatics, to the cautious management of jaguars, whose stealthy behavior must be understood and respected.

Each day begins with a comprehensive round to ensure the well-being of all our animals, setting the tone for a day filled with meaningful interaction and care. Our established routine involves the meticulous feeding of various species, special attention to convalescing animals, and the provision of environmental enrichment to stimulate and promote natural behaviors.

A significant part of our program is the behavioral management of our animals, where students learn to administer training techniques that aid in medical care. For instance, monkeys are habituated to receiving yogurt through syringes, a practice that eases the administration of medication when necessary by blending it with palatable treats like honey. Students are actively involved in the healing and convalescence processes of animals, working alongside the veterinary doctor—our on-site expert who is a constant pillar of knowledge and support. The program is further enhanced by the weekly visits from another veterinary specialist, ensuring a comprehensive learning experience. Surgeries, when needed, are conducted in our clinic, which, while not as technologically advanced as those in more sophisticated zoological settings, is equipped for a variety of procedures such as blood sampling and laboratory analysis. Our microscope is an essential tool for conducting coprological exams, crucial for early parasite detection. Beyond the clinical aspects, students contribute to the maintenance of our sanctuary, including tasks like cleaning turtle shells and caring for reptiles. Any injured wildlife brought in by local community members is skillfully treated with the goal of rehabilitation and, if possible, release back into their natural habitat in accordance with government permissions. In their leisure time, students are encouraged to engage with the local community, whether by visiting the local sports plaza or venturing on cultural days out facilitated by rented minibusses for longer excursions. Embarking on this journey with NATUWA Macaw Sanctuary is not merely about developing veterinary skills but also about leaving a lasting impact on the environment, participating in a vibrant cultural exchange, and forging unforgettable memories while making strides in wildlife conservation. Join us in our endeavor to heal, protect, and understand the precious wildlife of Costa Rica and be a part of a story where every day is a step towards a brighter, more sustainable future. This veterinary program is not just a learning experience—it's an adventure that weaves animal care with cultural exploration, offering an unparalleled journey into the heart of wildlife medicine in one of the most biodiverse countries on Earth.


Typical day

Embark on a Day of Purpose and Passion at Our Sanctuary

At the NATUWA Sanctuary, every sunrise heralds a new adventure in wildlife care that's unlike any other experience in Costa Rica. With over 400 animals eagerly awaiting your dedication, there's never a dull moment. This project is tailored for ...

Typical day

Embark on a Day of Purpose and Passion at Our Sanctuary

At the NATUWA Sanctuary, every sunrise heralds a new adventure in wildlife care that's unlike any other experience in Costa Rica. With over 400 animals eagerly awaiting your dedication, there's never a dull moment. This project is tailored for those with a fervent passion for animal welfare and conservation—if that's where your heart lies, you're in the perfect place!

Our daily routine is robust and might test your limits, but rest assured, the fulfillment you'll feel from nurturing sloths, jaguars, tapirs, and an array of other incredible wildlife is nothing short of extraordinary.

A Snapshot of Your Day:

7:00 am - 8:00 am: Begin your day with the morning feeding ritual, where you'll bond with the animals as the sanctuary comes to life. After a brief orientation period, you'll quickly find your rhythm under our supportive guidance.

8:00 am - 8:30 am: Breakfast time! Recharge with a nutritious meal shared in the company of fellow volunteers.

8:30 am - 10:30 am: Roll up your sleeves for the day's tasks, which range from hands-on care to vital support activities. Continue your immersion in daily tasks, each one contributing to the well-being of our sanctuary's residents.

12:00 pm - 1:00 pm: Lunch break! This is your time to connect to Wi-Fi, catch a restorative nap, or simply relax in the tranquility of nature.

1:00 pm - 4:00 pm: Continue working with the veterinarian supporting the animals of the Sanctuary.

Post-Afternoon Duties: As the sun dips, your structured activities conclude, leaving you free to explore, reflect, or join in communal activities until dinner is served between 6:00 pm and 7:00 pm.

Diverse Daily Tasks Include:

1.     1. Morning Health Checks: Conduct initial health assessments of each animal to identify any overnight changes in behavior or appearance that may need attention.
2.     Dietary Preparations and Nutritional Assessments: Prepare specific diets for different species, taking into account their nutritional needs, and monitor their intake to ensure optimal health.
3.     Wound Care and Treatment: Administer treatments to animals with injuries, including cleaning wounds and applying necessary medications under the supervision of the veterinary doctor.
4.     Sample Collection for Laboratory Analysis: Gather blood, feces, feathers, and other biological samples to monitor health, check for diseases, and assess overall well-being.
5.     Enrichment Activities Design and Implementation: Develop and provide enrichment activities that stimulate natural behaviors and improve the quality of life for animals in rehabilitation.
6.     Assistance with Veterinary Procedures: Support the veterinary team during medical procedures, which may include minor surgeries, vaccinations, and health check-ups.
7.     Neonatal and Pediatric Animal Care: Feed and care for baby animals, which may require bottle feeding, temperature regulation, and constant monitoring.
8.     Parasite Control Programs: Participate in regular deworming and parasite control measures, including the administration of treatments and analysis of coprological samples.
9.     Animal Training for Medical Management: Assist in the training of animals to voluntarily participate in their own health care, such as teaching primates to accept oral medication in a stress-free manner.
10.  Habitat Maintenance and Sanitation: Clean and maintain animal enclosures to ensure a hygienic and safe environment, including sanitizing feeding stations and refreshing bedding materials.


Free-time activities

Each week, veterinary interns enjoy a day off, perfect for exploring Costa Rica's stunning landscapes, arranged with guidance from our Veterinary Doctor. Our staff is ready to help plan various excursions, from lounging on pristine beaches and hiking misty cloud forests to thrilling canopy tours and ...

Free-time activities

Each week, veterinary interns enjoy a day off, perfect for exploring Costa Rica's stunning landscapes, arranged with guidance from our Veterinary Doctor. Our staff is ready to help plan various excursions, from lounging on pristine beaches and hiking misty cloud forests to thrilling canopy tours and volcano visits, immersing you in the region's natural wonders.

Additionally, we have a dedicated 'Cultural Day' weekly, organized by our ecotourism department. This day is an opportunity to discover local culture and nearby attractions like the idyllic Isla Tortuga. For closer destinations around Natuwa, transportation is approximately $22, while personal expenses for activities and meals are handled independently.

Our sanctuary facilitates transportation to all essentials, including airports, pharmacies, and supermarkets. Full details and associated costs are available in our store. Note that the transfer service from JSMA International Airport to Natuwa is $120 per trip, which can be shared by up to three people.


Requirements

Requirements

Minimum Age: 18 years

In order to join the program you need to be at least 18 years old on the program start date. There might be exemptions if you can provide the permission of your legal guardian(s) or if your are accompanied by your parents.

Language Skills

You need to speak English (basic level) or Spanish (basic level)

Required Documents

CV

Nationality Restrictions

No restrictions. Helping hands from all over the world are welcome.

Other Skills

No formal education is required. Seek keen learners with respect and love for animals. English/Spanish and basic computer skills for record-keeping are desirable but not essential.

Time Commitment

Your helping hand will be required on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 07:00 - 16:00

What's Included

What's Included

Services by NATUWA Wildlife Sanctuary

The price is per person, per night, and encompasses:
  • three meals
  • accommodation in the residence
  • training
  • WiFi access
  • cleaning services for common areas as well as materials and medical equipment. 

This rate does not cover transfers, laundry services, or any additional expenses incurred outside of Natuwa.

Accommodation

Our volunteer accommodations comprise two distinct structures, each with its own charm. The first, a quaint Costa Rican country-style house, offers a cozy room with three bunk beds, a fan, generous storage, and windows, ideal for long-term volunteers (staying 4 weeks or more). The second, a creatively adapted shipping container, houses three rooms. Each room is outfitted with two bunk beds, a fan, and ample space for personal items.

We recommend volunteers bring their own mosquito nets for added comfort. Responsibility for cleanliness and respect for fellow volunteers' belongings in these shared spaces is paramount.

Adjacent to the container, you'll find the bathroom and shower facilities. Please be aware that showers are equipped with cold water only.

For your convenience, we provide laundry services, with costs varying based on the volume of laundry. Clothes are returned washed, and volunteers can dry them on the available clothesline.

Stay connected: Wi-Fi is accessible within the volunteer accommodations and at the sanctuary's gift shop, ensuring you're never too far from home.

Food & Beverages

Our accommodations for volunteers feature two welcoming dwellings. The first, imbued with the rustic charm of Costa Rican country living, offers a room with three bunk beds, a fan, ample storage, and windows—reserved for those joining us for four weeks or more. The second is a resourcefully converted shipping container, providing three rooms, each furnished with two bunk beds, a fan, and sufficient space for belongings.

For personal convenience, both housing options include a shared refrigerator where you can store snacks, fruits, beverages, and other personal food items. While we provide hearty meals, we encourage bringing extra treats like cookies and snacks to complement the provided cuisine.

Sanitation and mutual respect are essential in maintaining a harmonious living environment.

Bathrooms and showers are located in a separate facility next to the container. Showers are refreshingly cool as hot water is not available.

Our laundry service is based on the quantity of clothes, with washing included and a clothesline for drying.

Wi-Fi is available in volunteer residences and the sanctuary’s gift shop, allowing you to stay connected.

Meals reflect the rich culinary tradition of Costa Rica, with staples such as rice, beans, and salad accompanying most dishes, and beverages like juice or coffee served with each meal.


Sample Meals

Breakfast:

  • "Gallo pinto" with egg, plantain, or sausage
  • Cereal assortments
  • Fresh fruits like watermelon, banana, and papaya

Lunch:

  • Rice and beans with meat or spaghetti
  • Meat and vegetable soup paired with rice

Dinner:

  • Rice and beans complemented by meat
  • Hamburger delights
  • Satisfying cold cut sandwich

Please let us know of any dietary restrictions or food allergies so we can ensure your dining experience is both safe and enjoyable.

Internet Access

Good access at the project site

What's NOT included?

What's NOT included?

Airport Pickup at Juan Santamaria International Airport

An airport pickup isn't included within the program fees either.

Flight Tickets

The nearest airport is Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) in San Jose. We assist you to find cheap flights to Costa Rica. FIND CHEAP FLIGHTS

Travel Insurance

Going abroad is an adventure and it is always best to be prepared. Sudden illness or injury, cancellation or theft - a travel insurance for Costa Rica provides security and is a plus to have. GET A QUOTE

Vaccines

If you are intending to volunteer in Costa Rica you should seek medical advice before starting your social journey. Check your required vaccinations for Costa Rica. VACCINE CHECKER

Details on arrival

Start Dates and Arrival Information for Veterinary Interns

Welcome to your new adventure at NATUWA Sanctuary, where we embrace the dedication of our veterinary interns with open arms and utmost flexibility. Your journey into the realm of wildlife conservation can begin on any day that suits you best—be it during the lush green season or the vibrant sunny months, making it convenient to align with your personal and professional commitments.

Arrival by Our Transportation Service: For those seeking a stress-free transition from plane to sanctuary, our personalized transportation service is at your disposal for a fee of $120. This service is available for arrivals at Juan Santamaría International Airport in Alajuela, offering you a direct and comfortable ride to the sanctuary at any hour, ensuring that no matter when you land, your first experience in Costa Rica is one of comfort and care.

Arrival by Public Bus: For the intrepid at heart opting for public transport, we welcome you between the hours of 8 am and 4 pm. Embark on your journey with the warmth of the Costa Rican sun guiding you to our gates, where the real work and wonders of wildlife rehabilitation await.

Detailed Transportation Instructions: Once your reservation is secured, you'll receive comprehensive details outlining your journey from either San José or Liberia international airports to our sanctuary's embrace. This includes insightful guidance on navigating the local public transportation system, with timings, route suggestions, and fare information.

Should you wish to delve into the details of public transport options in advance, feel free to request this information at the time of booking your spot. Our aim is to ensure that every step of your journey is as smooth and focused as your mission to aid in the conservation of our precious wildlife.

Availability
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Program fees

1 week (min. stay) 565€
2 weeks 1,130€
3 weeks 1,696€
4 weeks 2,261€
5 weeks 2,826€
6 weeks 3,393€
7 weeks 3,957€
8 weeks 4,522€
9 weeks 5,087€
12 weeks (max. stay) 6,783€
Average fees 565€/week

Program fees

565€ per week 1 - 12 weeks Age 18 - 50+

Payment methods

Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

NO CREDIT CARD FEES


Duration

1 - 12 weeks

Deposit

The deposit is simply to reserve your volunteer placement. Payments are handled by PayPal, our trusted global payment provider. If you don't have a PayPal account, you can also pay using a credit card.


Final Payment

Your final payment will be agreed with NATUWA Wildlife Sanctuary during the application process. Common solutions are either via bank transfer or a cash payment at the project site.


Meet your organization

NATUWA Wildlife Sanctuary

Great 4.4 rating (17 reviews)

Agency - founded in 1994

Verified by Volunteer World

  Very high response rate

Coordinated by

Rodolfo

Spoken languages: English, Spanish

About the project

Natuwa Wildlife Sanctuary provides refuge and protection to wild animals that have been victimized by human actions.

Meet your organization

Transform Your World at Natuwa: Adventure and Conservation in the Heart of Costa Rica.

Natuwa is a unique Sanctuary located in the heart of Costa Rica, where nature and wildlife flourish in harmony. Founded by Rodolfo Orozco Vega and Mainor Khayyan, passionate defenders of nature, Natuwa is a refuge for endangered animals and a conservation center dedicated to preserving Costa Rican biodiversity and environmental education. Its name, which means "macaw," "parrot," or "parrakeet" in the Chorotega language, reflects its commitment to the safeguarding of these emblematic species. However, its mission extends to a much broader spectrum of flora and fauna.

At Natuwa, volunteers dive into an unparalleled experience, working closely with wildlife experts to rehabilitate and care for rescued wild animals, from majestic macaws and sloths to big cats like the jaguar and other species that have found a temporary or permanent home in the sanctuary. Volunteer work ranges from environmental enrichment to feeding and health monitoring of the animals and maintaining the sanctuary's vast and lush natural habitats.

Beyond its invaluable contribution to conservation, Natuwa offers volunteers a deep immersion into Costa Rican culture. Located near attractions such as cloudy Monteverde, the blue beaches of Punta Arenas on the Central Pacific, the sandy shores of Guanacaste, and the imposing volcanoes, Natuwa becomes a starting point for exploring Costa Rica's natural and cultural wonders. Volunteers can soak up Costa Rican life, learn about local traditions, enjoy typical gastronomy, and practice Spanish in a vibrant and welcoming environment.

The sanctuary itself is a biodiversity oasis. Trails winding through the jungle lead visitors through restored habitats that harbor an impressive variety of wildlife. Each enclosure is designed to provide a safe and natural environment for the animals and educate and inspire visitors about the importance of conservation. The facilities include quarantine areas for new rescues, spacious aviaries, rehabilitation areas, and a visitor center where Natuwa's mission is shared with the world.

Participating in Natuwa is more than just volunteer work; it's a life-transforming adventure enriched by a deep connection with nature, animals, and the culture of Costa Rica. It is an invitation to be part of something bigger than oneself, a call to contribute to preserving our natural world for future generations while living an unforgettable personal experience. Come to Natuwa and leave your mark on conservation while discovering the unparalleled beauty of Costa Rica and the warmth of its people.

17 reviews · rating4.4

A range of tasks with the full spectrum of exotic animals, incredible staff and lifelong friends with the other volunteers. The accommodation was basic but comfortable, the food was local style and plentiful, and the Cultural Days were ...
Emily Bate rating4.2

2024 at Wildlife Sanctuary and Rescue

Our time at Natuwa was amazing, all the people that we got to work with were lovely and made us feel a part of the team straight away. We spent time in both the normal volunteering programme and with the vet and learnt so much in both settings. The accommodation is basic however you do not spend ...
Willem Matzinger rating5

2024 at Wildlife Sanctuary and Rescue

NATUWA, was a very nice place to stay. I learned how to work with people from different countries to give food to animals and other nice stuff. It was so ...
Lilou Menu rating5

2024 at Wildlife Sanctuary and Rescue

After two crazy weeks, I can say that it was certainly one of the best experiences of my life. I had the chance to meet some wonderful people, work with colleagues who helped me practise my Spanish, and learn a lot about the animals and culture of this magnificent country. I'm grateful for the ...
Eva Cuendet rating4.8

2023 at Wildlife Sanctuary and Rescue

My time in Natuwa was amazing. The staff is friendly and the place is beautiful. I learned many things while I was there and had a really enjoyable time. The vet is really nice and tries her best to make every day different and interesting, all the while keeping it accessible to everyone (pre-vet ...
aimee berkhout rating4.6

2023 at Wildlife Sanctuary and Rescue

I really liked my stay at NATUWA. Made a lot off friends and it was a super experience. The work can sometimes be hard but overall I really enjoyed it. The food was fine, a lot of rice and beans but you can expect that when you are in Costa Rica. There could be a little bit more variation in the ...

Location

Americas > Central America > Costa Rica > Aranjuez, Pitahaya

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Contact Rodolfo
  Very high response rate
English, Spanish

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