Impact Made From an Animal Welfare Internship in Costa Rica
“I wanted to immerse myself in a different culture, try a new way of life, and learn as much as I can in another country. I can definitely say I…
VETERINARY INTERNSHIP IN COSTA RICA
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PROGRAM OVERVIEW
GAIN HANDS-ON KNOWLEDGE IN THE WORLD OF ANIMAL CARE
This Veterinary Internship is designed for students passionate about wildlife conservation and takes place in Costa Rica’s Puntarenas province, home to 6.5% of the world’s biodiversity. Based at a nonprofit wildlife sanctuary, the program focuses on rescuing and treating injured, abused, and disabled animals, with the ultimate goal of releasing them back into their natural habitats.
As a Veterinary intern, you’ll play an important role in this mission by caring for a wide variety of wildlife species, providing essential medical attention, and learning valuable veterinary practices. Your daily work will be dynamic and hands-on, including health assessments and treatments, assisting in surgeries, administering medication, helping with physiotherapy, and responding to emergencies.
Beyond the clinical experience, this internship offers meaningful insight into wildlife conservation and the delicate balance of ecosystems. By working alongside experienced veterinary staff and supporting the sanctuary’s daily operations, you’ll develop your professional skills while contributing to the preservation of biodiversity in Costa Rica. When you’re not at the sanctuary, you can enjoy the laid-back pace of coastal life, explore the local wildlife, and soak up the sun on Costa Rica’s beaches.
ORGANIZATION
Based in Costa Rica, this nonprofit organization is dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of wildlife in the Alturas region of the Puntarenas province. This area loses a lot of its wildlife due to road accidents, electrocutions, domestic animal attacks, and the pet trade.
The organization runs a 24/7 veterinary clinic where they treat injured, sick, or orphaned animals with the primary goal being to release them. In cases where re-release isn’t possible when the animal has been domesticated or disabled, the sanctuary also serves as a refuge. Established in 2014, they have already established themselves as a valuable asset to conservation efforts in the region and have saved over 3,500 animals.
TASKS & REQUIreMENTS
During your veterinary medicine internship you’ll engage in a blend of responsibilities, including animal care tasks in the clinic, shadowing veterinary staff during rehabilitation, and supporting the daily operations of the center. The specific emphasis of your internship can be customized to align with your unique interests and skills, providing a broad spectrum of experiences in various tasks and duties.
Responsibilities
Interns committing to a one-month duration can anticipate to:
- Provide nourishment to neonate and juvenile animalsÂ
- Assist and observe animal emergencies and surgical procedures
- Observe and gain insights into necropsy proceduresÂ
- Prepare syringes and administer prescribed medicationsÂ
- Support in the care and management of animals Â
- Address dietary requirements and nutritional needsÂ
- Maintain detailed recordsÂ
- Gather foliage and leaves for the animalsÂ
- Participate in weekly educational lectures and workshopsÂ
Interns committing to more than one month can expect these additional responsibilities to those mentioned above:
- Conduct independent necropsiesÂ
- Develop essential critical care skills, including bandaging techniques, inserting catheters for IV procedures, and fluid therapy.Â
- Practice and gain insights into various suturing techniquesÂ
- Practice veterinary medicine and pharmacology for wildlife
- Assist with physiotherapy efforts
OPTIONALÂ INTERNSHIP ADD-ON
If you’re interested in wildlife monitoring, in-field research, community engagement, and disease ecology, you can opt to participate in the Health & Conservation Medicine Fieldwork program. The minimum duration is 3 weeks and will be completed following your Wildlife Husbandry internship. This internship add-on is ideal for individuals with a background in veterinary science or wildlife conservation who are eager to gain hands-on field experience alongside seasoned conservationists working with Costa Rican wildlife. Get in touch to learn more about the program & pricing.
Requirements
- Must be studying towards or have completed a degree in veterinary studies, biology, or a related field
- Two email addresses of academic and/or professional references UPON APPLICATION
- Ideally prior experience in wildlife rehabilitation, veterinary work, or animal husbandry
- Ideally clinic experience, preferably in a rehabilitation centerÂ
- A passion for wildlife conservation and community outreach work
- Hardworking and responsible
- Strong team player
- Fluent English language skills are required, Spanish is a bonus
- Minimum age requirement of 18 yearsÂ
WHERE YOU’LL STAY
Interns will stay in the Wildlife Sanctuary’s on-site volunteer house. Here, you’ll enjoy private or shared bedrooms, a well-equipped kitchen, laundry services and Wifi. You’ll also be able to embark on a range of outdoor activities like surfing, yoga, hiking, and waterfall tours.
Safety & Support
Safety & Support
Costa Rica is generally considered a safe travel destination although you have to keep the normal safety precautions in mind (take care of your valuables, don’t go out alone after dark, etc.). Make sure to visit your doctor and dentist for a check-up before your internship and to get all the recommended vaccines and/or medications necessary to stay healthy. Malaria risk is low, but consult your local health on whether or not to take any malaria medication.
Communication
Communication
Free Wifi is available at your accommodation to stay in touch with family and friends while abroad.
Meals
Meals
Three vegetarian meals a day from Monday to Sunday are provided. During the week, a chef will prepare lunch and dinner for you. You will need to prepare you own breakfast and meals over the weekend using the food provided (special requests for groceries can be made).
Location details
Location details
The organization is situated in the biological corridor that connects the Pacific Rainforest to the Osa Peninsula. This area houses 6.5% of the world’s biodiversity and contains the highest density in the world. The accommodation for this internship provides an up-close experience of one of the most exciting, and scientifically significant ecosystems on the planet.
DATES & RATES
Fee Breakdown
Arrival is always on Wednesday or Sunday (midday to 8PM). The exact start and end dates will be discussed with you during the selection process.
NOTE: this internship has limited availability; it is recommended to apply AT LEAST 10-12 months prior to your ideal arrival date
What you’ll pay (2026 rates)
4 weeks USD 2,272
6 weeks USD 2,954
8 weeks USD 3,607
10 weeks USD 4,264
12 weeks USD 4,896
Get in touch for the Health & Conservation Medicine Fieldwork internship add-on rates
Inclusions
- Careful matchmaking. It takes time to find the right internship for each person, and we take this process very seriously.
- Initial interview with one of our team to gauge your skills, interests, and desired learning outcomes.
- An academic internship eligible for university credit. Check with your university to confirm if this internship qualifies for credit or alternatively we can assist you with purchasing transfer credits.
- Accommodation based on a double room. If you prefer a single room or A/C, please contact us for availability and prices.
- Three vegetarian meals a day from Monday to Sunday (NB. During the week a chef will prepare lunch and dinner for you, during the weekend you prepare your own meals using food provided)
- Wifi access
- Guidance with your visa arrangement and other preparations
- Onboarding with your supervisor
- Regular check-ins
- Support from the Roots team remotely
- A certificate of completion at the end of your internship
- A reference letter upon request
Exclusions
- Flights to Juan SantamarÃa International Airport
- Transfer from the airport to the organization (private taxi, shuttle bus, or public bus)
- Visa and medical/travel insurance costs for the duration of your placement – must include cover for repatriation
- Drinks, snacks, and items of personal nature (f.e. curios, gifts, clothing)
- Costs for additional excursions or activities
FAQs
Some of our most commonly asked questions for programs in Costa Rica.
What can I expect from an internship in Costa Rica?
During your internship, you can expect to gain a mix of professional development and cultural exploration. Also, throughout your internship, you’ll gain hands-on experience in your chosen field, collaborating with locals and fellow interns, building relationships and a strong network.
How will a nonprofit internship in Costa Rica boost my career development?
As you engage in meaningful projects that contribute to sustainable development and environmental causes, you’ll gain a sense of purpose and passion for creating a positive change. Also, you’ll get to use and sharpen your professional skills, as well as your interpersonal skills. If you wish to know more about how doing a nonprofit internship is good for your career, make sure to check this blog out!
While on an internship in Costa Rica can I receive university credit?
Yes, but you must ensure with your university supervisor that the internship meets the needed requirements. You can also choose to purchase transfer credits to supplement your internship experience.
Will I receive compensation of any kind during my internship?
Unfortunately, it is not possible to receive any sort of stipend. When interning for a nonprofit organization, you will not be paid, but here are some ways to fund your internship. Your experience will bring opportunities for both professional and personal growth and a wealth of new knowledge which is invaluable!
REVIEWS
Spending time in Costa Rica was incredible as everyday brought something new to learn. From caring for the animals to helping across the sanctuary, I was able to gain hands-on experience that went beyond practical skills. I came away with valuable experience, unforgettable memories, and a deeper appreciation for the care and commitment involved in this field.
Alexander, Spanish – Bangor University
Wildlife Husbandry Internship, Costa Rica
Getting to work directly with animals in Costa Rica was an incredible experience. I was able to learn about animal behavior and husbandly while also being part of a passionate, supportive team. Contributing to a research project made it an unforgettable experience and confirmed my love for wildlife conservation and care. And the friendships and memories I made will stay with me forever.
Isabella, American – University of Florida
Wildlife Husbandry Internship, Costa Rica
I would definitely recommend this internship for people who have a passion for animal care and rewilding. It was an amazing experience that taught me so much. It was rewarding whilst also providing time to explore Costa Rica as a tourist. The internship has helped to focus my university studies and has confirmed that I want to work in wildlife conservation after graduation.
Amelia, British – University of Liverpool
Orphan Care Internship, Costa Rica
QUICK FACTS
LOCATION: Puntarenas Province, Costa Rica
PROJECT FOCUS: Animal Welfare & Conservation NGO
TASK FOCUS: Veterinary Assistance, Reporting, Animal Care
LENGTH: 4-12 weeks
COST: From USD 2,272
FEATURED REVIEW
My internship was invaluable for developing clinical skills and gaining hands-on experience with species I’d never encountered before. While many tasks like feeding and cleaning were repetitive, the opportunity to assist with animal exams and emergencies, and especially to witness the rehabilitation and release of a rescued bat, deeply impacted me. This experience has strengthened my commitment to becoming a wildlife veterinarian and taught me the importance of keeping an open mind, resilience, and compassionate care.
Larissa, American – Northeastern University
Veterinary Internship, Costa Rica
HOW TO APPLY
If you’re ready to apply for this internship, here’s what to do:
APPLY
Fill in the application form (it will show in a new screen) which includes sharing your CV to us.
SPEAK WITH AN ADVISOR
We’ll set up a call with you to go through your application.
INTERNSHIP MATCHING
If we feel it’s a good match, we’ll set up a call between you and the supervisor for this internship.
PAYMENT
If everyone’s happy, we’ll provisionally confirm your placement! We’ll then send you the invoice for the deposit, getting started with the booking process and all the info you need.
CONFIRMATION
Only once we receive payment of the deposit your placement will be confirmed.
NEED TO MAKE AN ENQUIRY FIRST?
Or if you’d just like to ask us some questions about this internship first, just fill in the contact form below. We’ll be happy to assist!
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