Student Externship - West River (test) in Hettinger, North Dakota at Heritage Vet Partners

Hands-On Rural Veterinary Experience | West River Vet Clinic, (Hettinger, ND)

Practice Details:

A true mixed-animal practice in southwest North Dakota. State of the art facility built in 2016, allowing for 100% haul-in emergencies in a temperature-controlled environment.

Species Mix

· 50% Cow/Calf (including bison herds)

· 45% Small Animal

· 5% Equine & Small Ruminant

DVM Team

• Dr. Bleaux Johnson (Iowa State University; 2008);

• Dr. Jenna Innes (Auburn University; 2014);

• Dr. David Lensing (Kansas State University; 2004)

• Dr. Lindy West (Kansas State University; 2012); part time

• Dr. Dawn Kaiser (University of Wisconsin, 1992); part time/relief

Housing Provided: off-site, private house

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Expected Duties

Shadowing and Assisting:

• Shadow veterinarians during consultations, surgeries, herd checks and other medical procedures to gain practical knowledge and skills.
• Assist in patient examinations, medication administration, laboratory sample collection, diagnostic imaging and herd health consultations.
• Observe and participate in emergency and critical care situations.

Communication and Client Interaction:

• Accompany veterinarians in client communication and education.
• Assist in explaining treatment plans and offering medical advice to livestock/pet owners.
• Enhance interpersonal skills by interacting with clients in a professional and empathetic manner.

Administrative Support:

• Contribute to maintaining accurate and up-to-date medical records for each patient/herd.
• Assist in inventory management, including ordering supplies and restocking trucks/treatment areas/exam rooms.
• Collaborate with the administrative team to ensure efficient clinic operations.

Qualifications:

• Must be actively enrolled in a veterinary school program.
• Strong interest in livestock or mixed animal medicine and surgery.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work efficiently both independently and as a team member.
• Demonstrated willingness to learn and take initiative.
• Attention to detail and ability to follow instructions accurately.

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About the Program

Heritage Vet Partners offers veterinary students a rare opportunity to gain practical experience in rural mixed and large animal medicine. Our externships take place exclusively at livestock-based practices, giving you real-world exposure to the animals, clients, and communities that likely inspired your first vision and interest in veterinary medicine. Externships typically run 2-4 weeks in length, but customized plans are possible. Depending on your stage in veterinary school, some placements can be arranged for course credit, while others are non-credit opportunities — this is worked out directly with your host practice and your school. Most externships are unpaid, though a limited number of participating practices offer small stipends. Housing is generally provided in some capacity at every location, though exact arrangements vary practice to practice.

Before Applying

• Join our Student Network here — we ask all applicants to complete this before applying.
• Prepare a current resume. Tips: include your expected graduation date, relevant experience (previous externships, vet-related jobs, current clubs and organizations, any awards, honors, or publications).

Before Your Externship Begins

• Confirm coverage under the AVMA Student PLIT Program
• Complete a confidentiality agreement

Your host practice will coordinate directly with you on scheduling, on-site expectations, and any additional specifics about your placement. Want to learn more about other student opportunities? Visit https://heritagevetpartners.com/student-programs/