Bryce Westbrook
I remember the days leading up to my trip to Namibia in June. I was finishing up my final exams for my second year of vet school and packing during that time as well. I was nervous but also excited for what these next two months would have in store for me. When I arrived at CCF, I found out I was going to be a veterinary student intern (no surprise there). I was so thankful to have the chance to spend the next few months doing what I love: helping and treating the animals at CCF.
During my time as a vet intern, I was exposed to so many new cases and learned a tremendous amount of information. Through CCF, I was able to work with a variety of species like goats (Boer and dairy), Damara sheep, Anatolian shepherds (livestock guardian dogs), and cheetahs!! Most days consisted of doing goat/sheep checks, which happen twice at 8 am and 3 pm. Going there, I learned a lot more about these livestock species and treatment options for a variety of ailments seen (I.e., lameness, abscesses, mastitis, ulcers in the eye, etc.). Also, I can now say I am a successful goat & sheep wrangler from all the days spent working with these incredible animals. Another highlight of working with the goats is that some of them were pregnant when I arrived, and I got help with the delivery of the goat kids. It was such a beautiful experience helping bring new life into the world.
Working with the livestock guardian dogs has been an invaluable experience as well. Being able to practice my physical exam skills and cytology skills on these dogs helped me to become more confident in myself in performing these when I am back in the states. Moreover, practice with catheter placement, injections, and cleaning teeth has been so fulfilling. Each of these dogs had its temperaments and personalities and it was amazing getting to know each of them.
Finally, let's talk about the cheetahs. Working with these magnificent creatures has been one of the biggest highlights of my time here at CCF. I had the opportunity to take part in cheetah workups during my time here. Cheetah workups are conducted on cheetahs captured in the surrounding farmlands and captive here at CCF, in which we look at overall health. During these workups, I oversaw vitals (heart rate, respiratory rate, and temperature), as well as wrote down what the doctors were doing during the workup. This was an invaluable experience, being able to take action and be an integral part of the vet team.
Overall, this has been one of the best moments of my life. The vet team allowed me to get hands-on experience and taught me a tremendous amount of information. The lessons learned will be taken back with me to be applied in my veterinary studies at UC Davis. Working with the vet team these past two months has helped me to feel more confident in my veterinary skills and my ability to become a successful and competent veterinarian. Thank you to the vet team, Dr. Ana, Dr. Mercelin, Dr. Anahi, Vistoria, and Johanna for being welcoming and great mentors during my time here. I am so grateful for all you have taught me and will continue to teach me as I continue vet school. Thank you to CCF and all the staff and interns that have made these past two months worthwhile. Thank you to UC Davis Global Programs, Dr. Patricia Conrad, Dr. Johnathan Dear, and International Summer Externship Fund for giving me the tools and the means to be part of such an invaluable experience. I am forever grateful for the memories made here, and I welcome the opportunity to come back in the near future.
