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Dog Internship Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

National Veterinary Associates

$120K - $140K/yr

Built from the ground up to be different than traditional rotating internship programs, the ERi ... Dogs & Cats Emergency & Specialty 6700 Laurel-Bowie Rd, Bowie, MD 20715 Program Highlights * Rotate ...

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Dog Internship information

What is a dog internship?

A dog internship is a hands-on learning opportunity for individuals interested in working with dogs, typically in settings like animal shelters, veterinary clinics, dog daycares, or training facilities. Interns gain experience in tasks such as animal care, feeding, grooming, basic training, and sometimes assisting with medical treatments. These internships are designed to help participants build practical skills and knowledge about canine behavior, health, and welfare, often serving as a stepping stone for careers in animal care or veterinary fields.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a dog intern, and why are they important?

To succeed as a Dog Intern, you generally need a basic understanding of animal care, enthusiasm for working with dogs, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with kennel management systems, pet care software, or basic animal handling equipment is advantageous. Patience, strong communication, and teamwork are essential soft skills to build rapport with both animals and staff. These competencies ensure the safety, well-being, and positive experience of the dogs in your care while supporting a productive team environment.

What types of hands-on experiences can I expect during a dog internship, and how do these prepare me for a career in animal care?

During a Dog Internship, you can expect to participate in a variety of hands-on tasks such as feeding, grooming, exercising dogs, assisting with basic training, and observing health checks. Interns often work closely with experienced handlers or veterinary staff, gaining exposure to daily routines and learning to recognize canine behavior and body language. This practical experience not only builds confidence in animal handling but also provides valuable insight into the responsibilities and challenges of working in animal care environments like shelters, clinics, or training facilities. Such internships are a great stepping stone for those considering careers as veterinary assistants, dog trainers, or animal shelter workers.

What is the difference between Dog Internship vs Dog Trainer?

AspectDog InternshipDog Trainer
Required CredentialsNone or basic experience, often a learning positionCertifications or formal training often preferred
Work EnvironmentAnimal shelters, training facilities, or veterinary clinicsPrivate clients, training centers, or pet stores
Employer & Industry UsageOrganizations seeking hands-on experience for future trainersIndividuals or businesses providing training services
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Dog internships are typically entry-level positions designed for individuals gaining experience in dog care and training, often without requiring certifications. Dog trainers are professionals who provide specialized training services, often with certifications or experience. Internships serve as a stepping stone, while trainers are actively working in the industry providing training to clients.

What are the most commonly searched types of Dog jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Dog jobs in Virginia are:

What are popular job titles related to Dog Internship jobs in Virginia?

For Dog Internship jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Dog Internship jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Dog Internship jobs in Virginia are:

Dog Internship jobs near you
Infographic showing various Dog Internship job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Emergency Veterinarian - Ethos ER Immerse Mentorship Program

National Veterinary Associates

$120K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday

National Veterinary Associates rating

5.8

Company rating: 5.8 out of 10

Based on 281 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

32nd of 52 rated veterinary

Job description

Emergency Veterinarian - Ethos ER Immerse Mentorship Program - Winchester, VA - Offsite Training!

Valley Veterinary Emergency & Referral Center is seeking veterinarians passionate about working in emergency medicine for our 6-month training and mentorship program. We are looking for individuals who are team oriented, driven, reflective, and reliable to train with us and transition into an ER position with our team!

About VVERC:
For more than 25 years, VVERC has been a trusted name in emergency care. Valley Veterinary Emergency & Referral Center was born from the vision of 19 local veterinarians and in April of 1998, our doors opened.

We're deeply committed to maintaining a healthy, respectful, and fun work environment, in partnership with the Ethos Community Team. Our culture is guided by our Team Agreements, which reflect how we show up for each other every day through daily check-ins, team reflections, and making space for self-care and recognition.

 Our Facility Features:

  • Newly renovated, bright and modern hospital
  • Full surgical suite with advanced monitoring
  • Diagnostic ultrasound, endoscopy, therapeutic laser
  • Heska cytology
  • ezyVet software 

Perks & Benefits

Benefits for this role may include health insurance (medical, dental, vision), retirement benefits, paid time off (including sick leave and vacation), short-term and long-term disability, and life insurance

  • Competitive compensation: $120k-$140k base with 22% production eligibility post-training
  • Sign-on or relocation assistance
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • CE allowance and professional development support
  • Paid time off
  • Retirement savings options
  • Employee assistance programs

Life in Winchester, VA:
Mountains, rivers, history, and charm-Winchester gives you the best of all four seasons in a friendly, affordable community. Hike Harper's Ferry, float the Potomac, explore wineries, or hit the downtown walking mall for music, food, and local shops. You'll love calling this place home.

The Ethos ER Immerse Training Program 

The ER Immerse Program will prepare veterinarians for a sustainable and satisfying career in emergency medicine. Built from the ground up to be different than traditional rotating internship programs, the ERi program has been developed around a curriculum of core competencies essential for an emergency veterinarian. In addition to providing training around clinical knowledge and skills, the program also includes a focus on client and team member communication, professional skills, and life/work integration.  

The ER Immerse program utilizes a hybrid training approach incorporating simulation-based didactic components into authentic training experiences with live patients. The curriculum is designed using an evidence-based strategy identifying competencies and skills deemed essential for a successful career as an emergency clinician. 

Applications: 

Applications are accepted year-round; however, mentorship positions are limited. To maximize your chances of securing a placement, we recommend submitting your application by November 1st. Applications received after this date will be considered as opportunities remain available.  

Work authorization in the United States is a requirement for the position. This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship by the company, but candidates eligible for TN status may be considered. 

Program Duration/Commitment

  • 6-month training program beginning June or July 2027
  • 18-month commitment as an ER clinician at VVERC following training

Location

  • Home Hospital (Start here at month 7 of program): Valley Veterinary Emergency & Referral Center: 210 Costello Drive, Winchester, VA 22602
  • Training Hospital (6 months): Dogs & Cats Emergency & Specialty 6700 Laurel-Bowie Rd, Bowie, MD 20715

Program Highlights

  • Rotate with specialty services during the training program
  • Surgical training optional
  • Always work with a dedicated mentor on shifts
  • No on-call
  • Competency-based curriculum that includes asynchronous learning on Vetbloom and weekly live virtual didactic rounds
  • Regular live continuing education events led by specialists and experienced emergency doctors

Want to know more? Be sure to upload your CV and apply today! 

What National Veterinary Associates employees say

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About National Veterinary Associates

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

National Veterinary Associates, based in Agoura Hills, CA, US, is a leading provider in the veterinary healthcare industry. Established in 1996, it operates independently owned veterinary practices across the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. With a passion for pet health, National Veterinary Associates supports over 1000 veterinary hospitals and pet resort entities. Though their website, nva.com, doesn't explicitly describe their mission, it is evident that their aim is to empower veterinarians with the resources they need to provide high-quality, compassionate pet care services. They have made remarkable strides in advancing veterinary medicine, which is a testament to their industry influence and commitment.

Industry

Veterinary services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Agoura Hills, CA, US

Year founded

1996

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