Volunteer as a vet in South Africa

The project

Wildlife vets do far more than treat sick or injured animals. With much of Southern Africa's wildlife now living on smaller, fenced reserves, their ability to migrate naturally is severely limited - creating conservation challenges that didn't exist a few decades ago. Wildlife vets are perfectly placed to help solve these, playing a critical role in:

• Wildlife capture and release: relocating wildlife to prevent genetic bottlenecks and overpopulation
• Disease prevention: acting as the first line of defence against notifiable diseases, in disease-free zones
• Emergency care: attending callouts for injuries in the field and at busy clinics in local areas

What to expect?

You’ll join a small team of experienced wildlife veterinarians and assist with a wide variety of cases involving an array of South African wildlife, including antelope, buffalo, giraffe and even rhinos, all out in the field, allowing you to gain exposure to unique aspects of veterinary medicine.

Because this is real, everyday veterinary work, rather than a programme set up purely for volunteers, exactly what you will help with day-to-day is decided by the demand at your time of travel, but you can expect to be involved with the following activities:

• Wildlife capture and relocation
• Disease prevention for notifiable diseases such as tuberculosis
• Field clinical work such as injections, pregnancy testing, treatment of wounds and injuries, draining abscesses
• Assisting in a large, busy clinic at the heart of a local community

In your downtime, you'll have a chance to relax, explore the local town, or just ask the project staff to help you organise an excursion to see more of the stunning landscape that South Africa has to offer!

“I learned so much about wildlife veterinary medicine in the field. I also discovered what conservation truly means and involves. Some of the most thrilling moments were spent deep in the bush, taking part in wildlife captures and interventions.”

Who can be a wildlife volunteer?

This project is open to anyone with a curiosity for veterinary medicine. No prior experience is needed, and we welcome volunteers of all ages and walks of life. Whether you are just starting a career in conservation or revisiting a longstanding passion for wildlife, you are welcome to join us.

Since 1999, we’ve helped travellers take part in genuine conservation work at Africa’s leading wildlife projects. As qualified zoologists and conservationists, we only work with projects that meet the highest ethical and animal welfare standards. With guidance from our experienced teams, you'll work on the ground at respected conservation projects that protect threatened species and fragile ecosystems, many of which partner with global organisations like WWF and Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT).

What makes us different to other companies?

• We are southern Africa’s original conservation travel company, run by qualified conservationists.
• Your trip is financially protected through ABTA and ATOL, so you have full peace of mind that your money is safe.
• Every traveller receives personal guidance before choosing their projects, to find the right fit for their goals.
• 24/7 support from our in-country team who meet you on arrival, see you safely home and are always available in between.
• We work with a range of real projects, offering hands-on experience and meaningful work in animal care, wildlife research and monitoring and veterinary, so you know your efforts are truly making a difference.