Lisa, an experienced veterinarian from the UK, took time out of her busy schedule to share her knowledge and skills with vets-in-training in India. Here she is to tell you all about her experience volunteering at our International Training Centre (ITC) in Ooty.
Teaching vets abroad
"I’d never done work abroad with a charity, but lots of my fellow vet friends recommended WVS, so decided to volunteer and help teach at ITC in Ooty. It was amazing and such a rewarding experience! The Indian participants were so keen to learn, and I love teaching, so it was the perfect opportunity to use my skills and give something back."
Learn more about our surgical training courses and apply today. If you are an international participant, apply here, and if you are a local participant, apply here.
More than sterilisations
"Over 200 animals were neutered overall during my time there, and it just showed me how good veterinary practice can still be performed without all the gadgets and equipment we’re used to in the UK. We also had a few amputations and emergency cases from dog attacks and other incidents, which meant we had to respond quickly and efficiently to a number of different cases. I remember one dog – we named her 'Sticker' because she just loved cuddles so always used to stick to people – she had to have her leg amputated, but she recovered really well from the surgery and was adopted from the centre."
"Working in Ooty, treating animals like Sticker who had no one else to turn to, and helping train new vets, so they can do the same, was an incredible experience. It reminded me why I was a vet again."
A working holiday
"I was also fortunate enough to travel a little after the placement, yet it felt like so much more than a holiday because this way I was able to see a whole new culture whilst using my skills as a vet at the same time. I’d definitely go back to volunteer again! I’m tempted to travel to another of WVS's International Training Centres to do the same thing."
"My veterinary team at home in the UK also took part in the WVS Christmas Parcel Appeal, collecting funds with a collection pot on their reception desk, and raised over £200. With their help, our appeal raised an impressive £2,407 which enabled us to send out even more parcels full of veterinary supplies to struggling animal charities all over the world."
Become a volunteer like Lisa
If you’ve been inspired by Lisa's experience and feel ready to help train veterinary students and graduates, take a look at the volunteer opportunities at our International Training Centres in Chiang Mai, Thailand, Ooty, India, and Goa, India.