South Africa Zoo Medicine

It was a wonderful experience! I learned so much in just two short weeks. Everyone was so kind and experienced. This is without a doubt a once in a lifetime experience and I'm sad to be leaving so soon.

The staff is extremely friendly and they have all kinds of fun activities planned. We get to learn so much about the culture in South Africa and in veterinary medicine. One of the best Loop programs ever!

This experience was the best I've ever experienced in my life. I was not only able to learn more about my future career than I thought possible, but also learn the different culture which was amazing to me.

This program was an amazing experience for me because I have always wanted to pursue a career in vet med, but never had the experience I wanted. Coming on this trip has allowed me to gain experience with exotics!

There is still a part of my heart left behind in Africa. Each and every morning brought a new joy. Every activity broadened my perspectives. Every interaction made me into a whole new person! Thank you Lory Park!

I loved this journey so much and it was truly the best program on this trip. I thank everyone who came together and made this experience amazing. I will never forget this as long as I live.Thank you, Loop Abroad!

This trip has been an amazing experience with the welcoming staff and the amazing big cats. I have learned more about myself and veterinary medicine and this has helped me think about future pathways for my career.

Loop has been the best experience of my pre-vet years. I am glad that I stepped out of my comfort zone and came to South Africa. My advice, step out of your comfort zone and experience a once in a lifetime program.

I loved going to Kruger. It was such a life changing experience. I also loved the Big Cat Day and the cub lab. Our staff also helped us with our project and I can tell how much they love their jobs and the students!

This was one of the most magical experiences of my life. If I could do this every year I would. From the people to the experiences, everything was so informative and welcoming. The experience I gained here was invaluable.

Loop has been one of the best experiences of my life! I learned so much and met some amazing people. This is a trip I will remember for the rest of my life! The connections I made and experiences I had were unforgettable.

I really enjoyed all the activities we had, from dancings to vet practices. We really got hella opportunities to work with animals and do the procedures we wouldn't normally be able to do. Freda the python is my bestie now.

I am extremely grateful for all the opportunities this program has given me. I am grateful for the bonds I have created and the new information I have experienced. I get to take home and apply all of this to my journey in veterinary medicine.

I loved the relationships I made and I can't describe the family that I have truly made. We got many opportunities to learn and get an experience that is truly once in a lifetime. I can honestly say this program has changed my life for the better.

This program excited me in the veterinary field and allowed me to practice skills I could only develop on this trip. The staff was amazing and helped me every step of the way. I am so grateful for the opportunities given to me and i know these skills will aid my future!

The very first day, we got to watch a procedure and then take care of her afterward. From there, the great times with the staff kept going. Our program vet leader was so inspirational and gave us so much advice. I learned a lot from her and had a blast at the same time!

I had a fantastic time on this trip and learned so much about how a zoo runs day to day and how so many people come together to make things happen. I'm so glad I was able to be a part of this program and I wouldn't trade the skills, knowledge, and memories gained for anything.

I really enjoyed the program and the staff, everyone was super welcoming, patient, and friendly, making the whole time super nice. I learned so much and those experiences I'll keep and remember for life. Thank you for this wonderful opportunity and I hope to be able to participate in something like this again.

I had the absolute best time on this trip. I learned so much about so many different animals and it taught me that we need to care about all animals, not just the cute cuddly (not) big cats. If you are passionate about wildlife and would like to get an inside scoop, this once in a lifetime opportunity is for you!

Getting to see everything the zookeepers do from the moment they wake up gave me perspective. More appreciative towards the work the other people do that are connected to vets. I absolutely love South Africa and its culture. I can't wait to come back and see everyone. Thank you for opening my eyes and giving me a real experience.

Coming on this trip gave me the confidence and clarity I needed to create momentum towards my future career. The staff was so supportive and loving. This was a small part of my future career and I cannot wait to hopefully come back. Thank you Loop and Lory Park staff for creating a strong foundation for my future and giving me this childhood dream come true!

My Loop Abroad trip was truly life changing. From the zoo, the staff, and the friends to the animals and activities, I felt at home and excited. The skills and information I have gained will stay with me through my career and beyond.

Loop Abroad South Africa Zoo Medicine has changed my life. I had no clue I had a passion for so many things. You learn about once in a lifetime things with once in a lifetime experiences. The staff are amazing and Lory Park will always hold a piece of my heart!

This program has been one of the best things I've ever been a part of. It was absolutely eye opening and just so much fun. We got incredible opportunities to work with and be around the most cared for animals and the most caring staff. It truly is like a family and is an unforgettable experience.

Thank you for everything more. The group is a tight-knit family that showed what it means to be and work at a place where everyone is loved and feels like family. I learned more than I imagined, from veterinary medicine, zoo management, husbandry, and my favorite part, the culture of South Africa.

This program changed a lot for me. I learned so much and it confirmed I wanted to be a part of the zoo community or in a conservation job. I loved every minute that I was here, the staff was so sweet and accepting which made it even special. The experiences were unbelievable and a great opportunity to talk about and take in my future career.

Lory Park is a little zoo in South Africa. It has some of the most amazing animal species. Everyone at Lory Park has changed and made such a huge impact on my life and I will never forget the feeling of community there. My advice, listen to what they have to share and offer, because you will view everything differently and become a much better version of yourself.

This experience was absolutely amazing. Everyone was so nice and welcoming. I learned so much and have a better idea about what I want to do in the future. But most importantly I have made amazing friends.

This program broadened my horizons about what possible avenues of veterinary medicine I could study in the future. Working with these animals and the staff members made me realize that I would love a career in conservatin vet med. This was truly an incredible opportunity.

Lory Park was an unforgettable experience beyond what I ever thought it would be when I signed up. Their passion for conservation and education radiates through each and every person and has forever changed my perspective and has inspired a new passion within me. South Africa has always been a dream of mine and a part of me will always be left here.

I'd highly recommend this program for anybody that whats any future in animals! I learned so much about such a variety of species that I honestly couldn't have gotten anywhere else! All of the staff is so caring, loves to teach, and gives so many opportunities even outside of the set curriculum. I feel much more prepared and confident to become a vet.

I had an amazing time with Loop Abroad at Lory Park Zoo! I learned and did things I have never done before. I saw and handled animals I never thought I would. I also gained valuable experience and connections in my future field.

This was the most educational and enjoyable experience I have ever had. I cannot recommend it enough. The staff was incredible and have such passion for what they do. I have learned so much while also making unforgettable memories.

This program is insanely hands on. You learn so much in two weeks. The staff is amazing. It feels like home even after two days. I recommend stepping out of your comfort zone and flying over 15 hours. I will never forget about the people or memories I made here.

This program has completely affected my perspective on not only zoo med, but the world as a whole. Having never previously been out of the US, I have learned so much about the parts of society that I hadn't yet experienced. Learning about South Africa and all it has to offer has truly changed me.

Loop Abroad gave me a sense of home I hadn't felt in a while because I got to be in a place where I was able to do what I loved. I met people I will be connected with for the rest of my life and got to share memories I will never forget. This trip has enhanced my passion and love for vet med and animals in general. It's an experience of a lifetime.

This program allowed me to grow my confidence and clinical skills with diverse animals. It also allowed me to connect with the culture of this amazing country. I will forever be grateful for this opportunity.

If there was one program I would recommend above others it would be this program. In only two weeks this place felt a little like home. Lory Park is a tight knit family and I am beyond thankful they let us be a part of it.

This program teaches so much about husbandry and how to work with a variety of animals. I never felt looked over or unhappy because the staff and people put so much effort into teaching and caring for us. I will never forget this wonderful experience and can't wait to come back.

Lory Park Zoo is one big family and I'm so happy to have been a part of it for two weeks. They welcomed us with open arms and did everything in their power to make us comfortable. It would be a pleasure to return and serve them in the best way as they did for my education. Thank you so much!

I was able to grow immensely in my knowledge and experience on this trip. It was always a safe space that helped grow my confidence and others. I was able to learn and do things more fast paced than even vets I know from home have gotten to experience. It was a once in a lifetime experience.

This trip helped me grow so much and I wouldn't change anything about it, not even getting up at 5:45am everyday. I would recommend this program to anyone even slightly interested in vet med. It provided such a unique experience that I don't think you could find anywhere else. Everyone in the program is committed to helping you learn and thrive.

Such an amazing trip! This study abroad program has radically changed my life and who I am as a person. I feel like I have discovered a new and deeper sense of passion and purpose. I will forever look back on this as the most memorable two weeks I've ever had in my life. I have truly found my calling as a veterinarian and can't wait to put what I've learned here into practice. Thank you so very much, Loop Abroad! I'd do it again in a heartbeat.

We did so much hands on work that was so valuable for my future! And then there was the safari in Kruger National Park which was amazing! I would definitely recommend this program and want to come back as a vet in the future.

Lory Park is a wonderful place and a once in a lifetime opportunity. All the animals are so well loved and cared for. Every single staff member is amazing and no matter what you do, you will learn something valuable. Thank you, Lory Park.

You can tell this program and zoo care deeply about their animals and the students' learning. No matter how much you think you know, you will always learn more here. Everyone included in this program was exceptionally helpful throughout the entire trip.

I could not recommend this program any more! I got the opportunity to do hands on vet experience unlike anything I've ever done. I made friends that I will have for the rest of my life and my perspective on life has changed because of this trip and all the amazing people in it

My experience on this trip has been nothing short of amazing! I enjoyed getting to explore the field of conservation/zoo medicine and work with animals I've never even seen before. I am so grateful for the opportunity to be a part of this trip and get a sneak peek into what my future career holds!

What a phenomenal trip! It is without question the best trip I've ever been on and it gave me once in a lifetime memories! I gained so much hands on experience and medical training! I'm in love with all the staff and animals of course! Anybody who's thinking about doing this should just get out of their comfort zone and do it.

Loop Abroad has given me an experience I could never forget. The team Loop has and Lory Park's staff were the best I could have ever hoped for and I only hope to be as helpful to animals and the education of conservation to the public. Truly have learned things I never thought I would at 20, I know this will push me in my career to be even better.

Loop Abroad has brought me many close relationships and professional connections that I am so grateful for. I have gotten opportunities to work with animals that have affirmed my career goals in zoo med that I never would've gotten if it weren't for Loop or Lory Park. I will never forget my experience in South Africa, and I hope I get the chance to come back.

I had a great time on my Loop Abroad trip! I got to experience direct work with the animals which was amazing! I got to experience so much more than I thought I would. Getting to experience a different culture and hang out with the amazing staff made this trip so worth it!

The Loop Abroad trip taught me so much in relation to veterinary medicine. I feel much more confiednt in my suturing, blood drawing, and animal restraining skills after this trip. I really value the cultural experiences I've had on this trip and I'm going to miss it. See you soon South Africa!

Loop Abroad will push you to your limits, but the skills you learn in this program is nothing to be compared to your average school. The extensive learning, hands-on activities, and fun loving staff will have you wishing you could stay forever. The connections are endless.

It was such an incredible experience in South Africa. We got to do things that hardly anyone on the planet got to do and it was extraordinary. The wildlife were beautiful and the country itself was amazing.

The hands on veterinary skills that I have learned on this program have been exciting and I felt as if I learned more in these two weeks than a semester of classes. The people here in this program have contributed to a very positive and nurturing learning environment. These two weeks have been an experience of a lifetime.

I had an amazing experience living at the zoo! I learned lots about applications to vet school from peers, and medical information from the doctors. The most amazing part was waking up to the southern ground hornbills singing a duet! I would love to go on one more walk through the park!

Loop Abroad is such a special organization and every program is filled with the most valuable lessons and most exceptional people. I would recommend their programs to anyone interested in veterinary medicine or animals in general.

This program is beyond words. I learned so much for my future about myself and found new passions. I'm thankful my family has grown. Forever thankful for this bucket-list experience and I'd absolutely do it again.

Once in a lifetime experience, great pre-vet course. Improve your skills, learn new skills, and expand your knowledge on multiple species. Experience a new culture and grow. I knew nothing about reptiles! Now I can pull blood from them with no problem.

This program was an amazing opportunity to learn about the husbandry and conservation of many different species. We were able to work with a wonderful team of vets and keepers. What a beautiful place to expand knowledge of veterinary medicine. As well as gain a plethora of cultural knowledge.

I loved being here with the staff and had a great time seeing all the animals. I think the packing list needs an update and maybe smaller groups instead, but overall I had a ton of fun and the Lory Park staff will always hold a special place in my heart.

South Africa was amazing and this experience has been once in a lifetime. From feeding the lioness to spending quality time with the green wood hoopers. I've been learning constantly and enjoying every moment. Every second has been filled with amazing opportunities and cool experiences.

These past two weeks have been truly lifechanging. I went in having little to no practical experience and now I have practiced in suturing, blood draws, and necropsies. I would recommend this program to anyone interested in veterinary medicine, zookeeping, or conservation.

This program was amazing and taught me so much from veterinary medicine and zoo conservation to cultural traditions about South Africa! I feel like I have grown so much in these two weeks and will never forget this trip!

Loop Abroad changed my life. I made valuable connections and learned more than I ever could in a college classroom. The personal growth I've experienced in just two weeks is astounding and a testament to the amazing staff at Loop and Lory Park.

Not exaggerating when I say I've met some very special people here. And it's definitely something I won't ever forget. Amazing staff and vets. Original, spectacular, eye-opening...not enough words to describe it.

This trip allowed me to do things I would never have been able to do anywhere else. It has taught me so much about zoo med., conservation, and myself. I will carry these lessons with me for the rest of my life!

I had the best time on this trip. I learned so much valuable information and got hands on experience that not many people get. Additionally, the staff were amazing and made the trip so special and fun.

Loop Abroad is an amazing company. I can't say enough good things about the staff. They are all so helpful, kind, welcoming, and loving people. They make my first abroad trip one of the best I will ever have.

This has, without a doubt, been one of the best two weeks of my life. I'm going to miss everyone and everything about this experience. Lory Park will always have a special place in my heart now and I'd love to come back.

This program has been absolutely amazing! I've learned so much and gotten to work with so many unique African animals. The staff is fantastic and I've had so much fun working and getting to know them. I'd love to come back some time!

The trip has changed me in ways I never imagined were possible. I interacted with animals I used to be terrified of and I now love them. This truly was a life=changing experience that I will never forget. Thank you to everyone at Lory Park Zoo and Loop Abroad who made this trip amazing!

This program was such an amazing opportunity for me to learn and appreciate a different culture! I was able to learn medical differences and husbandry. I have gained invaluable experience and lifelong friends on this trip! Thank you, Loop!

This trip changed my life. The friends and connections I made were unlike any others. The ability to gain hands on experience whether you have previous kowledge or not is crucial, and Loop staff and Lory Park staff were fully supportive of everyone.

Loop Abroad has been the most memorable and amazing experience. I have learned more than I ever thought I could in two weeks and made genuine connections with people and staff. I would choose Loop over and over again and will forever be grateful for my two weeks spent here.

Loop Abroad brought me an experience I could've never done back home. It opened my eyes and taught me so many things I wouldn't otherwise. I am so grateful to all the staff and students I met. I have made some forever connections. Thank you, Loop Abroad.

This experience has been life-changing. From meeting new people to interacting with animals I never have before. This trip has proven to me I made the right choice in my profession. I have learned and done new things I never have before. I have made a family forever.

South Africa Zoo Medicine has allowed me to have an experience of a lifetime that for my family I would not have imagined to be possible. I am forever grateful for the connections that I made not just with the staff but also with my peers. It is not every day that you are able to work with wildlife and understand the impact you can hae with conservation!

This program drives students toward their dream. Whether that's zoo medicine, conservation, or just a future with animals. Not only are they teaching zoo med and conservation, they are teaching students to live in the moment and pursue whatever it is that makes them happy. If you want education, experience, and a second family, this program is for you.

Loop Abroad was an amazing experience. I learned not only more about veterinary medicine. But I was able to build valuable connections. I believe that the people I'm seated with will be lifelong family.

Loop Abroad was such an amazing opportunity! I learned so much about myself, zoological medicine, and my future career path. I have also made so many wonderful connections and met so many wonderful people.

This program gave me clarity and even more passion for my future, that I didn't even know was possible. Even when I was at a low point, I still felt supported and encouraged to keep learning and growing. I came out of this program a different person - for the better!

I loved this program from the course work, acitvities and the staff. I have been able to expand my knowledge on so many species I wouldn't ususally have the chance to work with. Visiting Kruger National Park and South Africa has always been a dream so I am thankful!

The Lory Park Zoo staff are so friendly, encouraging and knowledgeable! I hope they keep making the world a bright place. My favourite activity of the program was when we went to Kruger National Park to see the wild animals.

Lory Park Zoo allows you to act as the veterinarian and challenges you to enhance the physical and mental well being of the animals at the Lory Park Zoo. I have seen and done so much here that I never thought I could do.

This is the highest quality veterinary medicine program ever! I was so happy learning everything I did at Lory Park Zoo. The Loop Abroad and zoo staff were so amazing and organised. I definitely will be back again soon.

I really enjoyed going to Kruger National Park. It was an amazing experience to do an all day safari. I also enjoyed all of the hands on things we did with all of the animals like vaccinating the lemurs and flamingos.

Lory Park Zoo is an unforgettable place. I had no idea that walking through those doors would change my life in the way that it did. I can't wait to help communities and make the world a better place for our animals.

I loved visiting Kruger National Park and seeing the safari. I also loved doing the enrichment project, it was a lot of fun. The staff taught us so much and were so helpful and kind. The people really made the place!

This program was such a blast! I learned so much about all the different species, behaviours, husbandy, diet, and preventative care. I also was able to add so many new skills in life and in the vet med field.

This program is really a once in a lifetime opportunity. You get to learn so much about different animals and the care that goes into maintaining proper management and husbandry. You will form bonds here, both with staff and peer that could come lifetime bonds and friendships.

I wasn't initially interested in going into zoo medicine. I applied for the program just for fun. I learned a lot which has made me think about what I want to do as a vet (and what I can do). I enjoyed the trip to Kruger National Park because there was so much to explore.

I highly recommend this trip because the people here are amazing. Everyone is skilled and knowledgeable in their field. It made me feel safe to enjoy myself to the fullest every moment. It is also a great way to expose myself to the new environments and learn new things.

This has been one of the best experiences of my life! The Loop staff, zoo staff and vets are all amazing. I've leared so much from every one of them and have been inspired so much to continue in this field. Thank you so much for this opportunity.

All of the staff were amazing! They were very patient when teaching us how to feed big cats. I loved making new friends with everyone, the staff and my classmates. The Safari at Kruger National Park was my favourite part of the trip.

It was so incredible! I already had some zoo experience going into the trip but I learned so much! All of the zookeepers are amazing and know their animals so well. I learned so much from everyone. Seeing wild rhinos was incredible!

After Loop, I have a more clear vision of the path I want to take in my career with animals. I got to learn information about my favourite annimals that I wouldn't be able to in public education. Thank you for fueling my dreams!

Learning about what it is like working with wildlife, meeting new people, and making connections is all the good and fun experience that Loop Abroad brought me! I loved it so much. My favourite activity was going on the safari!

This program gave me exactly what I needed and I was looking for. When you're unsure of what is next you need a place for comfort, fun, learning and to remind you of your passion. Loop Abroad and Lory Park Zoo did that for me.

This is by far the best program I've ever participated in. It met and exceeded every expectation I have. If you want the best hands on experiences you could ever get, this is it! My favourite activity was the vet day.

This trip was eye opening both from a medical perspective and culturally. It was fun to gain hands-on experience and learn things from staff that are so passionate about what they do. I'll definitely come back again!

This trip was amazing. The animal interactions, lectures, staff, learning experiences and opportunities were incredible. I recommend this program to everyone and hope to do more Loop Projects or return to Lory Park.

Caring staff members made me feel like home. The experience is really precious and has helped me learn a lot about animals. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. I really enjoyed the primate day most!

Lory Park provided me and everyone with incredible opportunities to learn and gain hands-on experience. The species worked with are species we most likely won't get more chances to work with. Being welcomed in like family added to my time here and wore a beautiful environment to be in. Everything I've seen and learned has truly been an inspiration!

My confidence in my abilities has skyrocketed three fold. I had experiences and formed connections here that I never wish to lose. How surreal. Thank you Loop and thank you Lory Park. I loved doing the injections and blood draws.

This trip has been one of the most amazing experiences. Getting to work hands on with these animals & the amazing staff was so educational & fun. I learned more than I could have imagined & wish I could stay longer.

South Africa Zoo Med is an extremely engaging and eye opening experience. All of the staff are very friendly and are very welcoming. Everyone made the experience special, fun and engaging. The trip was great!

This program was truly incredible. The staff is dedicated to these animals and the research behind them and it shows in everything they do. Lory Park and South Africa are stunning and inspiring places to be.

The care and knowledge of every staff member here is spectacular. I appreciate everything that they have taught me and let me experience. This really is a family. Thank you for everything and I love you all!

For two weeks, this zoo was my home. I loved it here. It's a really special place and I learned a lot about animals, and also myself. Obviously, Kruger National Park was one of my favourite activities!

The trip was absolutely amazing. I learned so much about animal husbandry & enrichment, and found a love for conservation and the Lory Park Zoo! The staff and the animals are all so amazing and this is definitely an experience I will cherish for the rest of my life.

This has been the trip of a lifetime! I could not have asked for better vets, staff, classmates or animals. My entire perspective has changed and I am excited to explore! Kruger National Park safari was so much fun and great bonding time!

This is an amazing trip that you learn so much on! Getting hands on experience is very important and this trip has that. I learned so much about what I want to do in my future on this trip! Kruger National Park was also amazing!

I love being a part of Loop Abroad Alumni. I learned so many things about the culture here, vet med and husbandry. 10 out of 10, I would recommend to everyone. I loved all the activities and I've learned so much from everyone.

This trip has been amazing! I've met so many wonderful people and staff. I've had experiences that I never expected to have and I'm very grateful for Loop Abroad. I feel very grateful for the three vets on my trip!

I never knew I would enjoy spending two weeks at a zoo with twenty other girls and a couple of guys would be so much fun! I loved the Kruger National Park safari, the vet days and activities. Thank you!

Everyone at Lory Park Zoo is so welcoming and truly want to help you learn. You will retain more information than you ever thought you could through hands on experiences. It is an experience of a lifetime and you get to participate in activities you never thought you would enjoy thanks to the amazing staff.

This was one of the most amazing opportunities to remind me why I am doing what I am doing. The animal experience was amazing but the people were beyond one of a kind. I hope after I become a vet I can come back and show everyone how much I have grown.

This program made me step outside my comfort zone and pushed me to really engage in activities that I was not so sure about. I learned so much that will definitely help me in my future career. I'll never forget my time being involved in this program.

South Africa was a truly amazing experience. Coming here I had no idea what to expect. But what I experienced here is more than I could have ever asked for. I am beyond excited to go and change the world with the skills and experience I gained here.

This trip helped to confirm my love for vet medicine. I was overwhelmed by the amount of people who shared the same interest and love for animals as I do. It was such an enriching experience and I hope to go on more trips in the future.

I have loved this trip as I was given the opportunity to learn hands on as I would never be able to get in the US. I truly loved all activities and rotations as I have been given the opportunity to learn so much.

I absolutely loved this program. The staff made all of the hard and dirty work more fun! I hope to come back in a few years and see everyone and see my favourite animals again, thank you for everything!

I had a great time in South Africa at Lori park zoo. All of the people were so nice and the vets were amazing to work with. I would say the only thing I would change is what I packed. When you think South Africa you think warm but it was very cold and I wasn’t prepared. I think the experience would have been a little better if there were less students present. On the vet days it was hard to even see what was going on. And as far as sleeping arrangements being in a small room with 13 other girls was difficult. Those things aside I wouldn’t change anything about the curriculum or activities we did during the trip. We got to work with so many species and got great hands on experience.

I HIGHLY recommend this trip for anyone who is interested in vet med. This trip taught me so much about South African wildlife and gave me a glimpse of their veterinary practices. The whole staff at the zoo is so kind and helpful and you can really tell they care for their animals. Each day was spend learning about a different species at the zoo and I loved getting to personally know each animal. The lectures were also very interesting and we even had a little lecture about the history of SA. The food was really good too and I loved trying their snacks and drinks. This trip truly changed my life and made me want to go into conservation medicine. The safari that we went on was amazing too and we go to see a bunch of wildlife (rhinos, lions, elephants, zebras, etc). All in all, this trip was worth every penny and I would 100% go again.

Lory Park provides the perfect place to learn about zoo animals and South African wildlife. The safari on the weekend is incredible and gives students the chance to see the animals they study in the wild. Highly recommend!

I never imagined being selected to go on this incredible journey. All I remember was applying and then getting an email saying I was selected to attend this program! I was in complete shock! I absolutely enjoyed all the LoopAbroad staff and zoo staff on my trip! I also want to give a shout-out to my group's three veterinarians from around the world! I would have learned so much without them. I also learned so much about the behind the scene of an actual zoo. Having this experience makes me want to become a veterinarian in a zoo setting even more!

This was a trip of a lifetime. I got to meet students around my age from all over and together we go to work at a zoo and work hands on with animals we are so passionate about. The program and the people I met became like a second family and I learned so much about potential opportunities in this field and about the possibilities in veterinary medicine. It was so interesting learning about conservation in South Africa and getting to take part in the cause. My favorite part had to be the safari because it was a dream I have had since I was 7 years old.

Overall I learned a lot, made friends, and got lots of experience, but a lot of things went wrong. Some were outside loop abroads control like flight delays and our bus tire coming off on the highway. Other things like the camp style living instead of dorm style living they told us we’d have, not getting to go into the communities, and not getting to do the research on black footed cats was not fair considering we paid for those experiences and got no refund. They also did not make enough food for everyone at meals so people that got there last had barely anything to eat. Loop abroad also overcharged me $500 for the “UF credit”. I go to UF and had already paid this amount with my normal school tuition. Loop Abroad said they’d refund me for what they overcharged and never did.

This trip was the single most amazing experience of my life. Not only did I get to see, experience, and learn things that I would never have been able to before. Even when half my group tested positive for COVID the experience wasn't tarnished. The staff worked extremely hard to give us all a safe area to sleep in and the comfort we needed when we were worried about making it home. I met people in Africa that I will never forget, they were one of a kind and absolutely incredible to learn from. Not only was I shown a whole new culture, but I also got experience with animals that I have only ever dreamed of getting close to.

During my trip I got to learn a lot of new things. I have worked at zoos before but this experience allowed me to work with a variety of species with the guidance of veterinarians. Everyone who worked at the zoo were very kind and informative along with the vets. You learn what it takes to become a zookeeper as well as a what it takes to become a zoo animal veterinarian.

I absolutely loved the Zoo Medicine program at Lory Park Zoo. To start, my group has the most amazing vet and supporting staff working with us, who were so ready to teach us anything we wanted to learn and encouraged us to keep exploring. The Zoo Medicine program involved working with different groups of animals each day, caring for them with the keepers, and learning about them in the afternoons. I felt I learned so much and got so much hands-on and textbook experience. We also got to interact with the animals a lot which was a bonus. We also worked on enrichment projects in groups with one specific animal, and got to learn all about that animal’s specific history and about the species, and crew tree a project to enhance their quality of life and natural behaviors in the zoo setting, which I thought was both very cool and also very fun. I had a great time, I miss the people and the animals so much now that I am home.

I think in the way of studying and what we had to do was really educational and I learned a lot from what we learned and did. I wish we did more educational cultural things like go to cultural places. Also, I feel like the food that was provided could of been better. For the breakfast I wish there was more options. For dinner I feel like there wasn’t enough for everyone and it could taste a little better.

Zoo and loop staff made the trip an unforgettable experience. It was truly amazing getting to work so close with the animals and learn about all of the hard work that goes into their health and care. This program was definitely based more on the husbandry side of things where I was expecting more veterinary work. However, both sides are equally as important.

To be honest, most of our activities were amazing. Working with such amazing people made eveything my favorite thing! I really loved working with Luka the white tiger. Personally I love behavior and being able to work as a group also made it awesome. Also being with Tarka was my dream come true because cheetahs are my favorite animal since I can remember. I loved how everyone was so respectful and genuinely loving and caring. They took their time to get to know all of us and were so open to us as well. All I can say is a huge thank you. This is an experience I've been waiting for 2 years and it exceeded my expectations!

I loved the safari to Pilanesberg because I feel like it made us all feel a lot closer and was just an overall amazing experience. All of the staff made my experience special but specifically Dr Taylor and Tiff who took so much time out of their lives to help teach us, spend time with us, and make our stay even better. The two weeks I've spent here have quite honestly changed my life. Thank you guys for making me feel so welcome here and creating such a great environment. I will miss you all so much!

The safari was awesome of course but I also loved big cat day and all the vet days. It was fun switching between all of the sections each day and working so closely with each keeper. I will miss all of you A LOT, and will be coming back very soon :)

The best part was the safari! Dr Taylor really knows her material and makes everyone feel included. Her presentations were engaging and interesting. She really made this whole 2 weeks amazing and really made an impact on my life. Thank you!

My favorite activities were helping the keepers and vets, and going on Safari. I loved being able to be so involved in everything and how they encouraged us to get hands-on experience. I wouldn't change a thing. Keep up the wonderful work!

Everything at the zoo was great and visiting the mall on the last day was perfect! Dr Taylor paid special attention to explain every procedure to me because she knows I don't have much experience. Wouldn't have been the same without her!

PROS: If you are interested in Zoo Vet medicine THIS is the program for you, you work with a TON of different species, do medical procedures and literally live at a zoo for two weeks. Not to mention the staff is AMAZING and no question is a dumb one. They are really dedicated to making sure you do things first hand and learn as much as you can about their culture and working safely with animals. CONS: If you are not into a lot of work, this trip is no vacation. You get up early and work to clean enclosures. There were also times when we had to shower with cold water and wifi could be difficult with so many people on it.There are also limited cultural experiences in this particular trip. We stayed on the zoo primarily and only left a handful of times for the Safari, a movie and to do a public education seasion. The area around the zoo can be dangerous so they have limited opportunities for safe cultural experiences. In conclusion, this honestly taught me SO much about working in a Zoological setting. It gave me techniques that I have since used at school and can carry with me into my career. If you are looking to work with LOTS of species and learn a lot about medicine, this is the trip for you. If you are looking for a more cultural or a relaxed experience I would maybe look at a different program.

This was my first time studying abroad and I was very nervous. However, the program was very organized and they made sure we had staff there at all times to help guide us. Whenever I had questions about tuition or payment I got a direct answer and they were very flexible. Definitely not all about the money like most programs are. I got the sense that they really wanted you to be there. During the two weeks they ensured that we were all engaged and hands on in a very organized way. I can honestly say that the staff wasn’t just there for money or just doing it because it was part of their job, but they actually bonded with us and we had a bunch of silly moments. I loved how they allowed us to get out hands wet and pushed us to try new things. The Lory Park Zoo was an amazing place. The owners welcomed us with open hands and when there were issues they were quick to accommodate us. Instead of being in a hotel room you were in a house which made you feel more at home and you were able to chat in the rooms with the girls and bond. At the end of the program each student was provided with certification of volunteer hours, a year book page, and a ton of information on how to include this experience in your resume and even tips on applying to veterinary school. I never thought I would grow to love each and every individual I met including the employees in two weeks, but when it came time to leave there were pools of tears. I am forever grateful for loop abroad welcoming me into this family and giving me the best experience of my life. If you have the opportunity take it.

I've always wanted to go to South Africa and its been my dream to work with animals and going on this trip made both those dreams come true. I got to work with animals I have never heard of and I ended up falling in love with them. I got to work closely with a gibbon named Joshua who I could spend everyday with. I learned about Black Footed cats that makes me wanna work hard to make sure they survive. Everyone I worked with was so passionate and they don't sugar coat the real issues going on in the world with animals. Every serious talk we had would being me to tears and made me realize I wanna work in conservation. I'm grateful for this program and I would highly suggest it for everyone wanting to work with animals.

The experience in South Africa completely exceeded all of my expectations! I felt very welcomed the second we got to the Lory Park Zoo. The staff, both of the zoo and the Loop Abroad program, were all super hospitable and basically treated us like family. The daily lectures gave me k=more knowledge than I could have even imagined. Not only did we learn from the daily lectures, but I honestly feel like we learned a lot from those who worked in the zoo that we got to work with during our morning rotations in different animal enclosures. The Safari was the obvious highlight of the trip, there is no other experience quite like seeing such beautiful animals in their natural habitat. This is a trip I will truly never forget.

The South Africa Zoo Med program was an awesome way to learn more about zoo medicine, wildlife, and conservation in a way that was so hands-on. We got to work with keepers daily all around the Lory Park Zoo prepping food, feeding the animals, cleaning, training, making enrichment, and more. We also got to work with the vets to do treatments on all kinds of animals from birds, to primates, reptiles, and more! We were able to be so hands-on with all of these animals in a way that you probably wouldn't find anywhere in the States. The Loop Abroad Staff was super helpful and supportive throughout the entire process of travelling and during the trip, and the staff at Lory Park was very welcoming and did do much to teach us and give us cool opportunities. I would highly recommend this experience to anyone who wants to have a unique hans-on experience with wildlife and zoo animals, this trip helped me learn so much and gain so many new perspectives about conservation.

This trip to South Africa was such an amazing experience and I've very thankful I got the chance to go. I really recommend anyone that is interested in zoo medicine or vet medicine in general to try to go. We did a lot of hands on activities and we were able to see and learn a lot by the keepers and the vet that would go once a week. We had 5 major groups of animals which were primates, cubs, reptiles, birds of prey, and big cats and everyday we would feed, clean and enrich the animals. Its very amazing being able to see a lot of different kinds of animals and also being able to go on a safari. Its just a very amazing experience overall.

We got to stay at the Lory Park Animal and Owl Sanctuary in South Africa. We got to help take care of reptiles, primates, big cats, small cats, cubs, and birds of prey, including cleaning, training, and enrichment. It was so incredible getting to learn from the keepers and how each species is different and how to tailor the care to increase their welfare. We also got to learn from an incredible zoo vet as she jumped from a tiger to a flamingo and then to a tortoise. It was so incredible seeing her switch from such different animals without a blink of an eye. Additionally, we got to go on a weekend safari which was amazing. We got to see so many animals in their natural habitat like elephants and lions, along with impala and monkeys that roamed our camp site. It was an incredible experience and I would recommend it for students! It is a great resume builder! They also do private groups if you have a group of friends or club that is interested in attending.