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Animal Internship Jobs in Springfield, MA (NOW HIRING)

Largest provider of Private Practice Internships and Residencies in the U.S; * WOOF University, offering abundant CE for Doctors and Staff; * Robust Clinical Studies program; * Opportunities to give ...

Animal Internship information

Do veterinary internships pay?

Veterinary internships, including those related to animal internships, are often unpaid or offer a stipend to cover expenses. Some programs may provide a small salary, but many are volunteer-based to give students and early-career professionals hands-on experience in clinical or research settings.

What is an animal internship?

An animal internship is a temporary, supervised work experience that allows students or aspiring professionals to gain hands-on experience working with animals. These internships can take place at zoos, veterinary clinics, animal shelters, wildlife rehabilitation centers, or research institutions. Interns typically assist with animal care, feeding, enrichment, cleaning, and sometimes research or educational programs. The goal is to provide practical skills, industry knowledge, and networking opportunities in the animal care or animal science fields.

What is the difference between Animal Internship vs Animal Technician?

AspectAnimal InternshipAnimal Technician
Required CredentialsOften no formal certification; some may require relevant coursework or volunteeringTypically requires a high school diploma or equivalent; some positions prefer or require certification
Work EnvironmentAnimal shelters, research labs, veterinary clinics, zoosVeterinary clinics, animal shelters, research facilities
Employer & Industry UsageInternship programs offered by organizations to gain experienceFull-time or part-time roles in animal care facilities
Common Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

Animal internships are typically entry-level opportunities designed for individuals seeking hands-on experience in animal care without requiring formal certification. Animal technicians are trained professionals responsible for daily animal care, often requiring specific certifications or education. While internships focus on learning and observation, animal technicians perform routine tasks and support animal health and well-being in various settings.

Is 22 too old for an internship?

Animal internships are generally open to individuals of various ages, including those in their early twenties. Age is rarely a barrier, and many programs value maturity, relevant skills, and a strong interest in animal care. Applicants should review specific internship requirements for eligibility criteria.

What jobs can I do if I love animals?

Animal internships can lead to various careers such as zookeeper, veterinary technician, animal trainer, wildlife rehabilitator, or pet groomer. These roles often require specific skills, certifications, or training, and involve working in environments like shelters, zoos, clinics, or research facilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Animal Intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Animal Intern, you need a basic understanding of animal care, biology, and safety protocols, often supported by coursework in animal science or related fields. Familiarity with animal handling tools, record-keeping systems, and sometimes first aid certification is typically beneficial. Strong observational skills, reliability, and effective communication help you stand out when working with both animals and staff. These skills are crucial for ensuring the well-being of animals, supporting team operations, and gaining valuable experience in animal-related fields.

Does Disney do animal internships?

Disney offers animal-related internships through its conservation and animal care programs, primarily at locations like Disney's Animal Kingdom and Disney Conservation Fund. These internships often focus on wildlife conservation, animal husbandry, and environmental education, and may require relevant experience or coursework. Applicants should review specific program requirements and application deadlines on Disney's official careers website.

What types of hands-on experiences can I expect during an animal internship, and how do they contribute to my professional development?

During an animal internship, you can expect to gain direct experience in animal care, such as feeding, cleaning enclosures, assisting with medical treatments, and observing animal behaviors. These tasks are typically supervised by experienced staff and may also involve record-keeping and participating in educational programs. This exposure not only builds practical skills but also helps you understand best practices in animal welfare and facility operations. Collaborating with veterinarians, animal trainers, and other interns can further enhance your communication and teamwork abilities—key assets for a future career in animal science or care.
What are the most commonly searched types of Animal jobs in Springfield, MA? The most popular types of Animal jobs in Springfield, MA are:
What are popular job titles related to Animal Internship jobs in Springfield, MA? For Animal Internship jobs in Springfield, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Animal Internship jobs in Springfield, MA look for? The top searched job categories for Animal Internship jobs in Springfield, MA are:
What cities near Springfield, MA are hiring for Animal Internship jobs? Cities near Springfield, MA with the most Animal Internship job openings:
Infographic showing various Animal Internship job openings in Springfield, MA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution.

Small Animal Internist - New England Veterinary Center & Cancer Center

PetVet Care Centers

Windsor, CT

$204K - $219K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago


PetVet Care Centers rating

5.4

Company rating: 5.4 out of 10

Based on 101 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

38th of 52 rated veterinary


Job description

At PetVet Care Centers, our mission is to improve the lives of animals and people — providing exceptional and compassionate care at every stage — for all the moments that matter.

Because life is better with pets.

We deliver the Ultimate Care Experience — every pet, every client, every time. That starts with a Culture of Care that supports our team members as much as the pets and clients we serve.

With more than 420 locally led hospitals and over 11,000 team members nationwide, we offer:

  • Local autonomy with national support
  • Career mobility and development opportunities
  • A collaborative, inclusive environment where your wellbeing comes first

You care for pets. We care for you.


Position Overview

We are seeking a dedicated Board-Certified or Residency Trained Small Animal Internist to join our team. The ideal candidate will be passionate about providing high-quality veterinary care and possess excellent communication skills to build lasting relationships with our clients. You will work alongside a team of experienced veterinarians, technicians, and support staff and will work closely with the Hospital Manager and Regional Manager.

New England Veterinary Center and Cancer Care (NEVCCC) in Windsor, Connecticut is a rapidly growing multi-specialty, emergency, and general practice that opened in 2011. We are proud of our commitment to excellent veterinary care. By choosing NEVCCC, you would be joining a team of fun, dedicated individuals who provide a high level of medical care to our clientele. We are a full-service practice, offering a wide range of services from general wellness care to emergency and specialty referral services, including internal medicine, surgery, medical and radiation oncology, and a board certified radiologist to review radiographs and CT scans. We are a progressive, team-oriented practice that values high-quality medicine, communication, and compassionate patient care. With a supportive team of receptionists, veterinary assistants, licensed veterinary technicians and kennel staff, our staff and doctors can maintain a balance of high-quality medicine and rewarding personal lives.

Why Join Us:

  • An 8,000 square foot state-of-the-art facility filled with top of the line equipment with three fully equipped surgical suites
  • A high tech to DVM ratio with tenured support staff
  • Enjoy a monthly stipend with impressive compensation and sign on bonus

Ready to take the next step? Apply today! For questions or to connect directly, please email your resume to Emily Lunsford at elunsford@petvetcarecenters.com.

What We Offer
We care deeply about supporting our team members — professionally and personally. Benefits include:

  • Signing, retention and relocation packages up to $75,000
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Paid Parental Leave (birth, adoption, foster)
  • 401(k) with discretionary contribution
  • Team Member Pet Discounts
  • Emotional wellbeing support — including Calm app access and 24/7 EAP
  • CE stipends and career development resources
  • Grant Circle — a relief fund for team members facing personal hardship
  • Local hospital culture backed by national resources

Key Responsibilities

  • Comprehensive patient exams and medical work-ups
  • Client communication and education
  • Maintaining accurate medical records
  • Pharmacy duties such as prescribing medications to patients and following controlled substance protocols
  • Promote teamwork and staff efficiency
  • Work with the Hospital Manager on weekly priorities and expectations
  • Evaluate and monitor protocols for the daily running of the hospital from intake to discharge
  • Monitor cases in the hospital and attend daily rounds when possible to be sure the highest standards are being upheld
  • Participate in practice management updates and training at all levels
  • Performs other duties as assigned by Management.

Qualifications (Required)

  • Veterinarian degree (DVM or VMD) from an accredited college or university
  • 1-year rotational internship in small animal medicine, surgery, ER (university or large referral practice).
  • Completed a 3-year, AVMA approved residency program
  • Current State Veterinary License
  • DEA registration must be obtained and maintained
  • Strong diagnostic and clinical skills.
  • Ability to work well in a team-oriented environment.
  • Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills.
  • Commitment to providing compassionate and high-quality veterinary care.
  • Excellent Communication Skills and the ability to communicate effectively, efficiently, and in a timely manner with all members of the Medical and Hospital staff.
  • Client communication skills, must be able to elicit information, establish rapport, offer explanations with pet owners.
  • Display confidence and reassurance when dealing with pets experiencing severe stress, illness, or pain.
  • May include some climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, or crawling.
  • Some tasks involve the periodic performance of moderately physically demanding work.
  • Position does require the ability to lift up to 50 pounds.

Preferred Skills (Nice to Have)

  • Board Certification
  • 2-5 years of experience post-residency
  • Clinical Knowledge and Skills: Demonstrate clinical knowledge and skill in examining and assessing animals. Perform cardiovascular, respiratory, orthopedic, neurological and other necessary examinations. Diagnosis and prescribe appropriate treatment.
  • Problem-Solving: Ability to develop solutions to challenges relating to the management of a high-quality veterinary hospital.
  • Communication Skills: Demonstrate effective communication of diagnostic and therapeutic options to clients. Display effective communication with internal medical and hospital staff.
  • Professionalism: Work as part of a high-quality, professional veterinary team with the ability to provide and receive appropriate constructive criticism, suggestions, and feedback.
  • Business Acumen: Ability to understand the management and finances of the veterinary hospital practice.
  • Ethics: Knowledge and understanding of ethical principles that guide decisions affecting patients.
  • Commitment to Continuing Education: Commitment to utilize available resources of continuing education and to facilitate learning of others.
Pay Range
$200,000—$280,000 USD

At PetVet Care Centers, we're committed to a Culture of Care — for pets, for the people who love them, and for the team members who make it all possible. With more than 420 hospitals across the U.S. and a team of over 11,000 dedicated professionals, including 1700+ veterinarians, we offer a unique blend of local leadership and national support that helps our hospitals thrive.

Our model is built on partnership, collaboration, and local medical autonomy, empowering each hospital to deliver high-quality care while benefiting from shared resources and a strong professional community. Whether you're providing care in a hospital or supporting operations behind the scenes, PetVet is a place where you can grow your career, stay connected to your purpose, and make a meaningful impact.

You care for pets. We care for you.

PetVet is an equal opportunity employer. All employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, age, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, religion, citizenship, national origin/ancestry, physical/mental disabilities, military status or any other basis prohibited by law. EOE, M/F/D/V

PetVet respects your privacy and is committed to protecting your personal information.  Please see our privacy notice for additional information about our data practices.


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About PetVet Care Centers

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

PetVet Care Centers, based in Westport, CT, US, is a leading player in the veterinary services industry. The company operates a network of over 350 general, specialty, and emergency hospitals across the United States, making it a central fixture in the field of animal health care. Established with a mission to provide the best possible care to the patients while supporting the people who provide that care, PetVet Care Centers continues to uphold this mission by providing comprehensive, quality medical services to pets. The company has achieved significant growth since its inception, standing as an industry pioneer by virtue of its commitment to advanced veterinary services and superior patient care.

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Westport, CT, US

Year founded

2012

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