Volunteer veterinarian at an Equine Therapy Centre in Argentina

What is the problem and how can volunteer vets help?

Equine Therapy

While Argentina is famous for its football and rugby, another pastime that has taken off in recent years is horse riding. Horses are becoming increasingly popular in Argentina but it seems that there is more than meets the eye when it comes to these fascinating creatures, with some people taking advantage of their therapeutic capacity. Projects Abroad Pro offer voluntary veterinary jobs in Argentina with the Equine Therapy Centre in Cordoba who specialise in using horses to help adults and children during their rehabilitation from emotional and physical problems. The centre aims to improve the quality of life for its patients and to encourage them to take up horse riding as a relaxing and psychologically beneficial hobby. As a volunteer veterinarian on this project you will use your experience and training to offer advice regarding the treatment of the animals and to ensure that the best possible care is given to every horse at the centre. We are committed to helping the centre prosper in the future and continue to carry out its important work to ever increasing standards. We believe that you can help us achieve this.

What is my role as a volunteer veterinarian in Argentina?

• Work with existing staff to coordinate the treatment of animals at the centre
• Analyse current facilities and working practice in order to outline and implement necessary improvements
• meeting and consulting with animal owners;
• carrying out diagnostic tests, such blood samples
• giving advice such as nutrition and health;
• maintaining records, raising and forwarding reports and certificates in compliance with current legislation;
• liaising with and referring to other professionals in the industry
• Take on non veterinary-related tasks and projects such as fund-raising and organising the purchase of equipment etc.

What skills or qualifications do I need?

In order to ensure high standards and help the project progress you will need a Bachelors Degree in Veterinary Medicine as an absolute minimum. Ideally, a qualified veterinarian on this project would also possess at least two years’ experience of practicing professionally. It is important that you are confident in your ability to organise, advise and provide quality treatment. It is also important for this project that you are able to speak Spanish to a good level. Naturally, this project involves substantial contact with horses and while it is not a pre-requisite, it would be hugely beneficial if you possess experience of horse riding. The person we have in mind would be confident, outgoing, friendly and creative, as well as having the patience required when working with less experienced staff and adapting to the challenges of a developing country.

Even if you feel you do not possess the required skills or qualifications for this role, you can still help on the same project. Please visit our website for more information about volunteer veterinary projects in Argentina.

What is unique about this project?

Equine Therapy Centre

At Projects Abroad Pro we believe that volunteer placements can and should be about much more than one person helping the less fortunate. Cultural exchange has always been paramount on our projects with volunteers spending time in local communities, learning about a new culture and experiencing a different way of life. Our Skilled Volunteer Placements offer a unique chance for you to work with fellow professionals in your industry, sharing your ideas and learning to adapt your working methods to face a challenging new environment. Naturally, some of your new peers will be less experienced than you and this will provide an opportunity to pass on some of your specialised knowledge and training. However, in many cases you will meet talented, well-respected professionals happy to engage in lively debate and offering you the chance to learn and apply valuable new skills.

What guidance and support is provided?

For many years now we have been offering unparalleled in-country support for our volunteers in over 500 projects worldwide. Every Projects Abroad Pro volunteer is covered by our comprehensive medical and travel insurance. Upon arrival in Argentina you will be collected at the airport by one of our team of staff and escorted to your new accommodation. All of our volunteers stay with local host families and you will be provided with plenty of food and clean drinking water. Our friendly and dedicated staff are on call 24 hours a day to ensure your safety and wellbeing and a member of the team will make frequent visits to check the standard of your accommodation. You will also be invited to social events such as parties and quizzes, giving you the chance to meet new volunteers and relax after work. Questions regarding any aspect of this placement are welcome and our UK office is more than happy to offer guidance and advice.