Quezon city offers veterinary internship program for aspiring veterinarians

The Quezon City Government is opening its doors to veterinary medicine students from various universities and colleges across Luzon, as it launches an extensive internship program.

The QC Veterinary Department (QCVD) will provide hands-on training and experience-based programs in various veterinary services, including clinical practices like animal care and adoption, rabies prevention and control, and spay and neuter procedures. The program will also offer training opportunities in Food Hygiene and Meat regulation.

Mayor Joy Belmonte expressed her enthusiasm for the internship program, emphasizing the importance of off-campus learning experiences for veterinary medicine students. She highlighted the significance of practical exposure in complementing theoretical knowledge, allowing students to gain valuable skills as they prepare to become veterinarians.

"We aim to serve as their training ground until they graduate and begin their professional journey. Actual practice offers unique insights beyond theories. By honing their skills while still studying, they can learn more effectively," Mayor Belmonte said.

The QCVD has initiated discussions with universities and is in the process of finalizing partnership documents. The department is actively engaging with other colleges and universities that offer veterinary medicine programs to explore potential collaborations sealed through a memorandum of understanding.

City Veterinarian Dr. Ana Maria Cabel emphasized the significance of this initiative, as it marks the first time an LGU (Local Government Unit) has extended its services for the internship of soon-to-be veterinarians. While schools provide students with essential concepts, the city's internship program offers practical knowledge and skills that enrich their learning.

"This is a win-win situation for both the students and the city. Through this collaboration, we can extend our services further while providing students with essential knowledge and skills, ultimately benefiting animals and contributing to the well-being of residents and communities," Dr. Cabel explained.

The QCVD is also collaborating with Quezon City University to develop learning modules that can be incorporated into the training program, further enhancing the students' experience.

In 2021, Quezon City established the QC Animal Care and Adoption Center in Barangay Payatas, which serves as temporary homes for impounded and neglected animals. The center features a surgery room for cats and dogs in need of castration and medical attention for other animals. The center's establishment demonstrates the city's commitment to animal welfare and responsible pet ownership.

With the launch of this pioneering internship program, Quezon City continues to uphold its dedication to education and animal welfare, empowering the future generation of veterinarians with essential practical experience that complements their academic training.