from 668€

Brilliant 4.7rating (17)

Veterinary Medicine Trainee

location
1 - 4 weeks  ·  Age 18 - 50+

rating  Brilliant 4.7  · 
  Verified by Volunteer World
  Excellent response rate

Highlights

  • Gain international experience and insight into Veterinary Medicine
  • Work closely with local vets, attending to domestic and farm animals

Especially suitable

Age 18+
Singles
Couples
Families
Groups
50+

About the program

Use your knowledge and gain international experience in veterinary medicine. Assist with operations and procedures and support vets with their duties.

About the Program

Use your skills to gain international experience in veterinary medicine in the Caribbean.  Assist with operations and procedures, support vets with their duties and provide care and affection to animals who have been abused, neglected, or abandoned.

Sadly, it is not uncommon to find ...

About the program

About the Program

Use your skills to gain international experience in veterinary medicine in the Caribbean.  Assist with operations and procedures, support vets with their duties and provide care and affection to animals who have been abused, neglected, or abandoned.

Sadly, it is not uncommon to find abused, neglected or abandoned animals in areas affected by poverty, and there are very few organisations dedicated to rescuing these animals.  V2 Volunteer & Vacation has developed partnerships with veterinary clinics in Jamaica who need helping hands to effectively carry out their duties.  You will help by feeding the animals, performing basic health checks on the animals, provide them with affection and company and carry out rescue missions to save abused animals.  

If you have been studying veterinary science, you can join us on our veterinary assistant program and receive invaluable first-hand experience of veterinary practice in the developing world.  Our partner organisation is an Associate Member of the RSPCA working to cure and rehabilitate injured and mistreated animals in Jamaica.  

Webinar

Volunteers are encouraged to think about their time overseas and how they can adapt to the culture where they will be staying.  The webinar is a chance for volunteers to ask any questions and for us to address any concerns before the adventure begins.

Orientation upon Arrival

Volunteers will have a one day orientation session that will cover the following topics:

  • How to adapt to a new culture and understand cultural differences
  • Local knowledge (local amenities, language skills, and embassies & consulates)
  • Personal safety and crime awareness
  • Crisis management, including how to handle medical emergencies, security risks, and natural disasters
  • V2 policies including complaints and code of conduct
  • Specific training for volunteering role
Training and Support

Both V2 and our partner organisation will support you throughout your placement. Our partner organisation will provide orientation and training sessions on arrival so that you will feel comfortable carrying out your duties. Each volunteer will be assigned a Mentor/Project Supervisor to guide them through everything they need to know.

Safety 

At V2, we take safety seriously. The V2 team are very well-acquainted with the islands we operate on and the highest priority for our local staff is volunteer safety. Their job is to ensure that risk assessment and health and safety checks are conducted before volunteers are placed. We conduct three main risk assessments:

  • Accommodation
  • Placement organisation
  • Third party providers

Carrying out these assessments helps V2 identify risks and mitigate their impact. These are reviewed after all V2 Experiences and any findings that may impact the success of our operations are addressed.

By the end of one of these placements you will have:

  • hands-on experience in the field of animal care and veterinary medicine
  • a better understanding of animal care in an international environment and the different regional approaches to veterinary medicine
  • raised awareness about responsible animal care in the local community
  • helped many local, wonderful animals in need!


Typical day

Volunteer activities for Animal Care Assistant include:

  • Basic animal training
  • Community outreach and educational programmes
  • Feeding, walking, and exercising the animals
  • Rescuing animals
  • Undertaking basic health checks on animals

Volunteer activities for Veterinary Surgeon include:

  • Carrying out health ...

Typical day

Volunteer activities for Animal Care Assistant include:

  • Basic animal training
  • Community outreach and educational programmes
  • Feeding, walking, and exercising the animals
  • Rescuing animals
  • Undertaking basic health checks on animals

Volunteer activities for Veterinary Surgeon include:

  • Carrying out health checks on animals
  • Conducting medical procedures and treatments
  • Rescuing animals
  • Promoting animal welfare

Volunteer activities for Veterinary Nurse include:​

  • Assisting Veterinary Surgeon with medical procedures and treatments.
  • Carrying out health checks on animals
  • Conducting minor procedures
  • Rescuing animals


Free-time activities

Free-time activities

V2 organises trips that highlight the best of Jamaican culture. Volunteers can trek through the island's stunning Blue Mountain (some say you can see Cuba on a clear day!), climb the beautiful Dunn's River waterfalls, and explore the city of Kingston, amongst many other options. ..

Free-time activities

Free-time activities

V2 organises trips that highlight the best of Jamaican culture. Volunteers can trek through the island's stunning Blue Mountain (some say you can see Cuba on a clear day!), climb the beautiful Dunn's River waterfalls, and explore the city of Kingston, amongst many other options. We are always on the look out for new trips and excursions and we are open to suggestions from volunteers. We can also help volunteers organise solo trips, if they wish.


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 (intermediate level)

Education Requirements

Veterinary Medicine, Animal Sciences, at least one year of university level completed at At least one year completed at bachelor degree level level

Criminal Background Check

required

Nationality Restrictions

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

Other Skills

Relevant work experience if no university study.

Time Commitment

Your helping hand will be required on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 09:00 - 15:00

What's Included

What's Included

Services by V2 Volunteer & Vacation

  • Orientation & training
  • Volunteer project
  • Airport pick-up
  • Breakfast
  • Accommodation
  • 24/7 staff support

Airport Pickup at Sangster International Airport

Please book your flights to arrive at the Sangster International Airport (MBJ) which is the closest airport to the volunteer accommodation. Airport pick up is provided on Sundays only.

When you arrive, you will be greeted at the airport by a member of the local team and transported to the volunteer accommodation (around 1.5 - 2 hours away).

Accommodation

Volunteers are accommodated alongside other international volunteers in a dormitory-style volunteer house. Living is comfortable in the volunteer house with electricity, running water, WiFi and western bathrooms. There is no air-conditioning in the accommodation, however fans are provided.

Bedrooms are comprised of single bunk beds and you can expect to share a room with one to three other volunteers of the same gender.

Food & Beverages

A basic daily breakfast (toast, spreads, cereal, milk, tea and coffee) you’re free to help yourself to these each morning at the volunteer house.

For volunteers who would like to have their dinners catered for, a home-cooked weekly dinner plan (Monday - Friday) is available for US$65 per week.

Internet Access

Good access at the project site

What's NOT included?

What's NOT included?

Flight Tickets

The nearest airport is Sangster International Airport (MBJ) in Montego Bay. We assist you to find cheap flights to Jamaica. 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 Jamaica provides security and is a plus to have. GET A QUOTE

Vaccines

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

Details on arrival

The V2 volunteer program orientation begins on the first and third Monday of each month and volunteers need to arrive in Jamaica on the Sunday before orientation.  Please book your flights to arrive at the Sangster International Airport (MBJ) which is the closest airport to the volunteer accommodation. Airport pick up is provided on Sundays only.

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

Program fees

1 week (min. stay) 668€
2 weeks 935€
3 weeks 1,157€
4 weeks (max. stay) 1,380€
Average fees 506€/week

Program fees

506€ per week 1 - 4 weeks Age 18 - 50+

Payment methods

Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

NO CREDIT CARD FEES


Duration

1 - 4 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 V2 Volunteer & Vacation during the application process. Common solutions are either via bank transfer or a cash payment at the project site.


Meet your organization

V2 Volunteer & Vacation

Brilliant 4.7 rating (17 reviews)

Agency - founded in 2013

Verified by Volunteer World

  Excellent response rate

Coordinated by

Jade

Spoken languages: English

About the project

V2 Volunteer & Vacation combines volunteering programs that respond to local concerns with a unique vacation experience in the Caribbean.

Meet your organization

Experience the Caribbean

Feel the rhythm of the Caribbean! Join us for an amazing volunteering experience on the islands of Jamaica or Trinidad and Tobago. Discover their natural beauty and stunning landscape while supporting a community project, connecting with local people and giving back.

V2 partners with community-led sustainable projects to offer volunteers enriching, meaningful and rewarding experiences coupled with an authentic Caribbean vacation.

We welcome volunteers from all over the world with varied skills, experiences and educational backgrounds. Make your next holiday count!

The Team

We are a dynamic team with vast experience working with charities and development organisations. We have extensive local connections in Jamaica and Tobago and we are committed to providing the best experience and service for our volunteers.​

We work closely with our partners and volunteers through a process based on shared principles, collaboration, mutual trust and respect for the environment. We make a positive contribution to the communities served by our programmes at every stage.

We also have local staff in both Jamaica and Trinidad & Tobago who work with us whenever our programmes take place.

Why take a volunteering vacation?

Little else can enhance the learning experience like a volunteer project abroad! Volunteering naturally brings out your confidence and independence, while offering the opportunity to learn and have fun.

Whether you are most interested in the work experience or simply the adventure, volunteering with V2 will bolster your academic credentials with invaluable first-hand involvement in the communities on the stunning islands of Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago.

1. Life Experience

A gap year does not have to be a year long. Two weeks can be all it takes to gain insight into a country and its people. Not only will the experience you gain overseas be life-enhancing, but you will develop invaluable life skills and knowledge to boost your professional prospects.

2. A Unique Opportunity 

Combining a volunteering experience with a vacation gives you the best of both worlds: you will delve deep into local culture and support local organisations whilst experiencing the islands that bring millions of tourists every year

3. Make an Impact 

We partner with local organisations to ensure V2 volunteers make a positive impact. Find out more on how you are supporting local communities (Link to how you contribute

4. Feel Supported 

Whether you are an intrepid explorer or new to independent travel, always travel with trustworthy, reliable operators. As specialists in creating short-term placements, V2 offers pre-departure and ongoing support. We are on hand for information, advice or help so that you are never stuck.

5. Explore a Caribbean Island

These small, renowned islands offer amazing attractions, extraordinary scenery, and a vibrant culture.  Most visitors stay behind the walls of large hotels chains, reluctant to experience the real Caribbean. The V2 experience allows you to get to know Jamaica and Tobago off the beaten track.

Who Can Volunteer?

At V2 Volunteer & Vacation we welcome volunteers of all backgrounds, nationalities, and ages.  We are great believers in cultural exchange, we appreciate the diversity that our volunteers bring to our programmes.  We also tailor each programme so that all of our volunteers, regardless of age, level of formal education or work experience, are able to contribute effectively whilst also learning from the partner organisation and most importantly contributing to a great cause

Alongside organising fulfilling and productive volunteering placements, V2 cater for adventurers, explorers, and those looking to relax on one of the Caribbean’s many beautiful beaches.  Whilst no one is obligated to join in on the trips and excursions, we arrange a wide range of activities, from laid-back cooking classes and beach trips to energetic mountain treks and tubing through rivers in the rainforest.

So whether you’re a student, a recent graduate, looking for a sabbatical from work or a retiree who wants go on a holiday with a difference, we have the perfect experience waiting for you; just click through the menu above to see why a V2 Volunteer & Vacation is right for you.

Students

Volunteering with V2 will bolster your academic credentials with invaluable first-hand involvement in the communities of the stunning islands of Jamaica and Tobago.

You can choose from a wide range of programmes including coral reef conservation, sea turtle conservation, teaching, equine therapy and veterinary and animal care.  We tailor each project to suit each volunteer so that you can be sure you’re contributing in the best way possible.  We also have staff on-hand to support you every step of the way. 

We understand how nerve-wracking it can be to take your first solo trip abroad.  We’re always available before departure to contact our volunteers so that you can be assured that you’re in safe hands, and we organise a webinar so that you can familiarise yourself with your chosen destination and our safety protocols.  All of our accommodation providers have Internet installed so that you can keep your loved ones up to date on your adventures, and we give all of our volunteers a mobile phone so that they can stay connected with V2 staff and volunteers on the island. 

Professionals

Sometimes people need to do something different, take a break from their daily routine, or stop for a moment and take stock of what they want to do next.

V2 can help! Rather than staying behind the walls of hotel chains, the V2 experience allows you to get to know Jamaica and Tobago off of the beaten track. You will partner with local organisations to make a positive impact, combining a rewarding volunteering experience with a vacation in two of the world’s natural paradises. We encourage professionals to volunteer so that they can use the skills they have gained in the workplace to help our partner organisations achieve their goals, and to further their own professional development by learning from their Caribbean colleagues. 

Mature Volunteers

Gap years are not just for students and young people; you’re never too old to get out there and experience new and exciting things. Retirement can allow for time to be given to exploring, relaxing and sharing skills acquired over the years within an environment chosen by you. The Caribbean has islands of great natural beauty, warm climates, and vibrant community life.

Volunteering through V2 allows for close interaction with projects within the very heart of the communities, whilst also offering all the relaxation and cultural experiences of a Caribbean holiday. Get involved with marine conservation, equine therapy, or teaching, using your invaluable life-long skills or learning completely new ones. From day one you will find that it is an inspiring, interesting and rewarding experience.

Here at V2 we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all package holidays. We understand that older volunteers have the experience and skill sets that are much needed on our projects and we strive to tailor each V2 experience to fit each volunteer.  We match our volunteers and their skill sets to our programmes; what you will do will depend on your strengths.  If you are a teacher, you can lead a classroom by yourself.  If you work in management or are a natural leader, you can head up a community development project and direct younger volunteers.

17 reviews · rating4.7

Sherie rating4.8

2017 at Veterinary Medicine Trainee

Jamaica was without a doubt one of the best experiences of my life. Fantastic and friendly people, amazing food and music in every corner. It nerver gets boring. ..
John rating4.6

2017 at Veterinary Medicine Trainee

International volunteering in particular is truly charatcer building as you are so far from your comfort zone and you have to adapt to whatever comes your way. I have learned and experienced a lot through volunteering which I will never forget and would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for ...
Annette Bonneau rating4.8

2016 at Veterinary Medicine Trainee

I was very hesitant to go on my own to Tobago even though I have travelled extensively. I was very impressed with the whole set up from the get go. The team were very professional and actually cared about our well being whilst on the program. I would love to go again and am planning my next ...
Anna Germer rating5

2022 at Teaching Assistant & Education Help

Was a volunteer teacher for a month and I’ve never had so much fun! Everybody were so sweet and welcoming, other volunteers, teachers and kids at school alike and I just felt completely home! If you’re thinking of going I would definitely recommending just doing it - best decision I ever ...
Niklas Burri rating4.6

2020 at Animal Care

I really enjoyed my time with V2 Volunteering. Because I had to quarantine in the first 1-2 weeks, there was little to do by the house, yet the company of the two lovely dogs Flicks & Blacks, Mark, Jade and Miss Fay it was not too bad, even though it got boring sometimes. The accommodation was a ...
I have found volunteering an extremely valuable experience in developing my skills and employability. Volunteering benefits the volunteer, the organisation and community you are working for. It allows you to give back whilst developing personally. ..

Location

Americas > Caribbean > Jamaica > St Mary

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