Hands-On Rural Veterinary Experience | Animal Medical Centers, (Spencer, IA)

Practice Details:

Animal Medical Centers – Spencer is a well-established mixed animal practice in Northwest Iowa, part of a 10-doctor team that values quality medicine, teamwork, and strong community relationships.

Species Mix

· Bovine (Beef): 22%

· Bovine (Dairy): 4%

· Small Animal: 21%

· Swine: 21%

· Equine: 21%

· Small Ruminant: 11%

DVM Team

• Dr. Mark Rees (Iowa State ‘95)
• Dr. Jeremy Bedford (Iowa State ‘01)
• Dr. Janessa Mechler (Iowa State ‘09)
• Dr. Victoria Foerster (Iowa State ‘11)
• Dr. Katie Kiepe (Iowa State ‘22)
• Dr. Jeremy Stuart (Kansas State ‘06) – Hartley, IA
• Dr. Aaron Nystrom (Minnesota ‘10) – Hartley, IA
• Dr. Katie Paulus (Iowa State ‘11) – Hartley, IA
• Dr. Lisa Yeske-Livermore (Iowa State ‘15) – Hartley, IA
• Dr. Sandra Schmith (Iowa State ‘87) – Sheldon, IA
• Dr. Rebecca Cuperus (Minnesota ‘03) – Sheldon, IA
• Dr. Megan Klein (Iowa State ‘24) – Sheldon, IA

Housing Provided: off-site, (hotel/Airbnb/Rental)

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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/