Veterinary Student Externship- Firehouse Animal Health Center (Westlake)

About the role

United Veterinary Care offers veterinary students externships across a network of over 100 hospital locations in more than 20 states. This clinical experience allows you to apply classroom knowledge in a real-world hospital setting. Externships are hands-on and designed for clinical-year students at AVMA-accredited schools, typically in their 3rd or 4th year.

You will share your goals at the start of your rotation and be integrated into the team through case discussions, collaborative problem-solving, and hands-on patient care in general practice, emergency, and specialty settings. Externships provide diverse experience, mentorship, and confidence in clinical skills. Stipends are available to offset travel and lodging costs (unless prohibited by your veterinary school).

Requirements

• Must be a current veterinary student at an AVMA-accredited veterinary school
• Priority scheduling is given to students in their clinical years on official externship blocks for school credit
• Must provide proof of professional liability insurance (SAVMA members qualify for no-cost insurance)

About the hospital

Firehouse Westlake welcomes students at any stage of their veterinary medical education (1st through 4th year). Located in Austin, Texas, Firehouse Animal Health Center-Westlake focuses on exceptional client service and unmatched patient care through attention to detail in all aspects of veterinary practice.

The hospital features modern, full-service facilities with open sight lines, ensuring clients never feel separated from their pets. The team prioritizes training in leadership, communication, diversity, equity, and inclusion to foster a collaborative work environment.

Doctors have varied professional interests, including surgery, dentistry, and ultrasound, with a shared focus on preventative medicine to maximize healthy years for pets.

Species treated

• Dogs
• Cats

Services offered

• Ultrasound
• Soft tissue surgery
• Dentistry
• Wellness/Preventative care
• Medical appointments

What to expect

During your externship, you will actively participate in cases and further your development toward becoming a veterinarian. You will be supervised by an experienced veterinarian and skilled support staff at all times.

• Participate in surgical cases, dental procedures, emergencies, sick patient workups, and routine medical appointments
• Discuss cases with your supervising veterinarian and confirm exam findings to ensure accuracy before proceeding
• Gain hands-on experience in a supportive environment with a fun-loving, dynamic, and skilled team

The team values new graduates and externs, as they bring fresh knowledge and perspectives.