Summary
Date Posted: Thursday, February 20 2025, Base Salary: Not Disclosed

JOB DETAILS:
Chimfunshi Wildlife Orphanage Trust (CWOT)
The Chimfunshi Wildlife Orphanage Trust (CWOT) is one of the largest and oldest chimpanzee sanctuaries in the world, with over 150 chimpanzees rescued from the illegal bush meat/pet trade. CWOT’s mission includes not only the rescue and rehabilitation of chimpanzees but also the protection and rehabilitation of other local wildlife in Zambia. The orphanage is involved in educational outreach, raising awareness about wildlife conservation, and supporting the local community. In addition to the chimpanzees, CWOT also manages a large cattle herd of over 700 cows and is working on aspects of sustainable agriculture through its farm project.

Role Purpose
The Veterinary Volunteer’s primary role is to support the Head veterinarian in providing high-quality medical care to a variety of species, including chimpanzees, reptiles, birds, domestic animals, cattle, and local wildlife in general. This includes assisting with medical exams, diagnostics, imaging, anesthesia, immobilization, sample collection, surgeries, and post-operative care to name a few. The volunteer will also participate in research related to animal health and the monitoring of animals under medical treatment. The volunteer will also assist with maintaining medical records and contribute to ongoing research projects. Finally, the volunteer may assist in supervising other CWOT volunteers or students’ vets, with the support of the team.

Core Activities
The Veterinary Volunteer will be responsible for:
• Assisting in the examination, diagnostics, imaging, anesthesia, immobilization, and surgery of chimpanzees, cattle, reptiles, birds, and other animals as needed.
• Assisting in the immobilization, sample collection, and necropsy of animals when required.
• Providing care to hospitalized and quarantined animals, ensuring their treatment and recovery.
• Maintaining detailed and accurate medical records for each animal under care.
• Participating in the day-to-day care and health checks of all animals, including cattle.
• Assisting in the rehabilitation of injured or sick animals, including chimpanzees, cattle, and other wildlife in collaboration with the Animal Care Manager
• Participating in research projects related to animal health, behavior, and veterinary care.
• Supporting the overall management of animal health by assisting in regular health assessments and treatment administration.
• Engaging with the local staff to provide training and guidance on veterinary care procedures.
• Ensuring that all veterinary procedures are conducted in alignment with ethical standards in wildlife conservation.

Skills and Experience Needed
We are looking for a dedicated veterinary volunteer who has:
• A degree in Veterinary Medicine or equivalent.
• Experience in wildlife care, particularly in a sanctuary or rehabilitation context.
• Knowledge of zoological veterinary medicine, including diagnostics, anesthesia, and surgery.
• Experience with large animals such as cattle (desirable).
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a remote, resource-limited environment.
• An understanding of the challenges and rewards of working in wildlife conservation.
• Strong communication skills in English, both written and verbal.
• Ability to handle sensitive and stressful situations with professionalism.
• Self-motivation, flexibility, and a willingness to learn and contribute to the success of the veterinary team.

What You Can Gain from the Role
• Hands-on experience in a range of veterinary practices, including diagnostics, surgery, and anesthesia, on various species.
• The opportunity to work in one of the largest chimpanzee sanctuaries in the world.
• A chance to develop your skills in wildlife rehabilitation and conservation.
• Exposure to veterinary work on both wildlife and large domestic animals like cattle.
• Experience in maintaining medical records, assisting in research, and contributing to the overall animal care at the sanctuary.
• The opportunity to work alongside a dedicated and experienced team of veterinarians and animal care specialists.
• Involvement in important research initiatives and animal health monitoring efforts.

Job Experience: No Requirements

Work Hours: 8

Experience in Months:

Level of Education: Bachelor Degree

Job application procedure
Interested in applying for this job? Click here to submit your application now.
• Application Requirements
• Deadline: 18/03/25
• Please send your CV with a cover letter and two references to the Executive Director with the subject: Veterinary Volunteer Application.

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