Veterinary Extern - General Practice
North Branch Veterinary Hospital
Job Description
Externship Opportunity at North Branch Veterinary Hospital – North Branch, MN
Where collaboration, compassion, and clinical excellence come together.
Are you ready to gain hands-on veterinary experience in a supportive, high-quality hospital that truly lives its values? North Branch Veterinary Hospital is excited to offer externship opportunities for veterinary students who are eager to grow their clinical and communication skills in a real-world setting.
About Us
Located just 30–45 minutes north of Minneapolis and St. Paul in the vibrant community of North Branch, North Branch Veterinary Hospital combines small-town charm with access to big-city amenities. We’re situated off I-35 for easy access and surrounded by scenic parks, lakes, and local attractions like skiing, tubing, golf, and art spaces.
Our Team & Culture
At North Branch, we're not just coworkers—we're a true work family. Our team includes 3 experienced doctors and 12 dedicated support staff, including 5 Certified Veterinary Technicians. Many of our team members have been with us for over a decade (some for over 30 years!), and we pride ourselves on creating a culture built on mutual respect, learning, and teamwork. We face challenges together, support each other's growth, and celebrate our wins as one.
What We Offer
Our modern, fully equipped facility includes:
• Ultrasound
• Midmark Dental Unit (2023)
• Surgical Laser & Smoke Evacuation
• In-house lab & diagnostics (Sedivue, Procyte, InVue, iPet, microscope, etc.)
• Paperless charting
• Digital X-ray (coming in 2025)
We offer surgery and dentistry services Monday–Friday, same-day and urgent care appointments, and access to visiting specialists for ultrasounds and orthopedic surgeries. We're also proud to partner with Rainbow Whiskers Cat Rescue and employ a full-time groomer.
What Makes Us Stand Out
• Fear Free certified team
• Emphasis on mentorship and development
• A champion for staff onboarding and success
• Commitment to ongoing learning and complex case management
• A doctor team that truly loves teaching and empowering future veterinarians
Externship Highlights
As an extern, you’ll:
• Shadow and assist our Associate Veterinarians in all aspects of patient care
• Perform physical exams, create treatment plans, and assist in diagnostics
• Gain hands-on experience with dentistry and surgical procedures
• Sharpen your communication skills with clients and the medical team
• Learn the day-to-day workings of a thriving, community-based small animal practice
Most externship experiences range from two to eight weeks depending on student and hospital schedules. Externships at North Branch Veterinary Hospital are designed for clinical year students.
Veterinary students who are in the clinical portion of their education are eligible for a travel/living expense stipend. We offer a $1,500 for clinical year externships. Click HERE for details on the stipend program.
National Veterinary Associates is a leading global pet care organization united in the love of animals and the people who love them.
At NVA, we’re on a mission to improve the lives of pets and the people who love them. That starts by empowering our care teams. We nurture their growth with resources to practice medicine their way. Our network of 1,000 hospitals connects them to a community of professionals who share their passion so they can learn and grow together. Our national presence enables us to deliver technology and innovations that simplify work and expand care for all. At NVA, we're committed to your professional growth. We support your entire career journey, offering opportunities ranging from mentorship to ownership.
NVA offers a comprehensive benefits program including medical, dental, vision, a 401k with employer match, and paid time off (including sick time) for all eligible employees. The team can provide more information about compensation and benefits for your specific location during the process. For positions based in Colorado, NVA provides eligible employees with paid sick and safe leave and public health emergency leave in accordance with the requirements of Colorado's Healthy Families and Workplaces Act.
NVA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information. Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, Los Angeles Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and any other state or local hiring regulations, we will consider for employment any qualified applicant, including those with arrest and conviction records, in a manner consistent with the applicable regulation.