Vets for Wildlife Program in South Africa

This 7-day Vets for Wildlife program is based in Zululand, KwaZulu-Natal, one of Southern Africa’s most biologically diverse regions and a landscape recognised through multiple World Heritage Site designations. The program operates in Hluhluwe–iMfolozi Park and/or Manyoni Private Game Reserve, depending on active conservation priorities. Participants work alongside experienced conservation and veterinary professionals in reserves supporting the Big 5, as well as Cheetahs, African Wild Dogs, and both Black and White Rhinos. The focus is on hands-on involvement in wildlife monitoring, veterinary support, and applied conservation management, contributing directly to ongoing protection efforts. Students assist with priority species tracking, data collection, camera trap servicing, and field observations. The veterinary component may include observing or assisting with Rhino dehorning, Cheetah or Wild Dog darting and collaring, and related sample collection. Activities vary due to the unpredictable nature of fieldwork. Additional learning includes talks on wildlife veterinary practices, monitoring techniques, Black Rhino conservation, and time spent with an anti-poaching K9 unit.