Sad to be leaving
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.
by Loop Abroad
Join us for two weeks at Lory Park Animal and Owl Sanctuary in South Africa! A sanctuary to many previously injured and trapped animals, Lory Park is now home to cheetahs, jaguars, lions, owls, pythons, hedgehogs, servals, lemurs, and many more! During this study abroad program, you'll have the opportunity to work alongside veterinarians and learn more about the behavior and conservation of various animals at the park. Your coursework will focus on the anatomy, handling, and medical needs of animals in captivity. In addition to veterinary labs such as necropsies and lectures from veterinarians and expert guests, you'll also get the opportunity to go on safari in Pilanesberg reserve, visit community schools, and support enrichment for animals at the park.
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Updated May 8, 2026
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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.
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