Natucate
Internship Veterinary Medicine, Greece - Carolanne
Our intern Carolanne spent two weeks in Greece to gain practical experience in the field of veterinary medicine. Read all about her experience below.
Profile
Name: Carolanne
Age: 22
Project: Internship Veterinary Medicine
Location: Attica, Greece
Duration: Mid April to beginning of May - 2 weeks
Internship: Veterinary Medicine in Greece – Review by Carolanne
Reflecting on my veterinary internship experience, I found it to be unexpectedly enriching despite not aligning entirely with my initial expectations. My primary goal was to enhance my proficiency in sterilization techniques for cats and dogs, especially considering the significant feline population in Greece. However, what I encountered during my time with the local veterinarians opened my eyes to a different approach to animal care.
The pace of clinics here in Greece differed markedly from what I'm accustomed to in North America. Instead of the rapid turnover of surgeries and patient consultations, the clinics here invested more time in each individual case. I was struck by the profound connections the veterinarians formed with their patients, which contrasted with the efficiency-driven model I was familiar with.
Another surprising aspect was the variation in procedures due to resource limitations. Unlike the well-equipped facilities back home, these clinics faced challenges such as a lack of support staff and financial constraints from pet owners, affecting the ability to maintain strict sterile techniques and proper anesthesia monitoring. This reality was eye-opening and made me appreciate the resilience of the local veterinary community.
While my medical learning curve might not have been as steep as anticipated, the internship served as a catalyst for personal growth. It underscored the diverse approaches to animal welfare globally and fostered a deeper understanding of veterinary practices outside my immediate environment.
Beyond the internship, I cherished my free time exploring the picturesque locales of Greece. The shelter's location afforded me the opportunity to visit enchanting places like Porto Rafti, Lagonisi, and the islands of Hydra, Poros, and Aegina. The accommodation provided by the shelter was comfortable, and I enjoyed engaging with volunteers from around the world, exchanging perspectives, and forging lasting connections.
In conclusion, while this veterinary internship may not have fulfilled my initial technical objectives, it proved invaluable in broadening my horizons and nurturing a more holistic appreciation for veterinary care in diverse settings.
