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Rhino Connect Veterinary and Conservation

Pretoria, South Africa
Wildlife and Conservation
Upcoming
Flexible Dates12 placesLion, Cheetah, Elephant, Rhinoceros, Antelope species, Zebra, Goat, Wild canids (e.g., fox, wolf)Fee: 3200 (lump sum)

Duties & Activities

Rhino Connect offers an immersive veterinary and conservation experience designed for those passionate about wildlife medicine. Participants gain hands-on clinical exposure while working alongside experienced veterinarians in diverse field settings, contributing directly to the care and management of a wide range of species. A unique feature of the program is its involvement in advanced reproductive research, including rhino IVF initiatives aimed at combating extinction. Alongside clinical work, participants engage in conservation efforts, research opportunities, and real-world wildlife challenges—developing both practical skills and a deeper understanding of global conservation medicine.

Summary

Flexible

Deadline: Rolling

12 places (max 12 apps)
Lion, Cheetah, Elephant, Rhinoceros, Antelope species, Zebra, Goat, Wild canids (e.g., fox, wolf)
Financials

Fee: 3200 Lump Sum

Logistics
Accommodation

Schedule

No two days are ever the same on the Rhino Connect Veterinary Program—each day brings new species, new challenges, and unforgettable experiences. A typical day may begin with an early wake-up to bottle-feed orphaned rhinos, followed by medicating and caring for any wildlife patients in the on-site hospital. Mid-morning, you may head out into the field for a relocation operation, working with species such as buffalo, antelope, elephant, rhino, or even lion, depending on conservation needs. In the afternoon, participants attend an engaging lecture covering topics such as wildlife pharmacology before taking part in hands-on training, such as a darting workshop. As the day winds down, the group comes together to cook dinner over the campfire before a good nights rest. Given the nature of wildlife work the schedule may change at any given moment due to emergency call outs.

Species

  • Lion1 animal
  • Cheetah1 animal
  • Elephant1 animal
  • Rhinoceros1 animal
  • Antelope species1 animal
  • Zebra1 animal
  • Goat1 animal
  • Wild canids (e.g., fox, wolf)1 animal

Logistics

  • Accommodation Provided
  • Free — Participants stay on a dedicated rhino sanctuary, where they are directly involved in caring for orphaned, sick, and injured rhinos in need. Accommodation is in single-gender dormitories with attached bathrooms, designed for comfort and practicality. One of the dorms is located within the wildlife hospital, allowing quick and easy access to assist with patients in the ICU at any time.
  • Catering Provided
  • Free — Meals are included within the program cost, ensuring participants have access to all essential food supplies throughout their stay. In keeping with the immersive, community-focused experience, participants are responsible for preparing the meal together either around the campfire or in the on-site kitchen.
  • Transport Provided
  • Driving Required
  • Student Insurance

Application Details

Deadline:RollingTotal places:12Max. applications:12

Requirements

  • Pre-vet Accepted
  • Minimum Year

    Year 1

  • CV Required
  • References Required
  • Cover letter Required

Nearest Medical Facility

Bela-Bela Hospital

57 Voortrekker Rd, Bela-Bela, 0480, South Africa, Pretoria, 0480, South Africa

Catering
Transport
Requirements
Pre-vet OK
Year 1+
CV

Complete student verification to apply