WELCOME TO
VETX GAME CAPTURE AND CARE
Embark on an unparalleled adventure in South Africa with the VETx Game Capture and Care program. This unique experience is more than just an expedition; it's an opportunity to weave together the threads of passion, conservation, and veterinary science, playing a pivotal role in preserving the rich tapestry of African wildlife.
Up to 9 participants
3-week course with 5 - 6 start dates per year.
5 - 6 start dates per year.
Minimum age: 18.
Arrive/depart at George Airport (GRJ), South Africa.
30-minute road transfer from George Airport to the project (return) is included.
Free Wi-Fi available; local SIM/data can be purchased at Johannesburg airport or George town
Weekends free for exploration. After arrival, the team will tailor weekend excursions based on your interests.
Highlights of the VETx Game Capture and Care Program:
Conservation Meets Clinical Skills
Dive into adrenaline-pumping scenarios, from racing to aid net-gunned wildebeest to ensuring the well-being of a tranquilized rhino. This program isn't just about observation; it's about hands-on action, ensuring you sharpen your clinical skills in real-time.
Learn From The Best
Stand shoulder to shoulder with seasoned veterinarians, absorbing their expertise and insights. These professionals have dedicated their lives to conservation, and now you have the chance to join them on this mission.
Comprehensive Curriculum
With a balanced mix of 30% theoretical knowledge and 70% practical application, the course guarantees a deep dive into everything from basic pharmacology and applied pharmacology to practical darting from a helicopter.
Tailored Experiences
Whether you're a budding vet, a seasoned professional, or someone driven by a profound love for wildlife, this program has something for everyone. Moreover, for groups of seven or more, bespoke programs are crafted to align with specific educational curricula.
A Broader Impact
Beyond the immediate activities, the program emphasizes a holistic understanding of conservation. Engage in a plethora of activities, including wildlife monitoring and pivotal research initiatives.
This course instills confidence and practical skills for planning and executing capture/chemical immobilization operations. With 30% theory and 70% practical learning, students master basic and applied pharmacology, safety in the field, and wildlife restraint. The curriculum covers helicopter use, species requirements, darting systems, and ancillary treatments. The training includes practical dart gun and helicopter darting on moving targets. Although specific work and capture numbers vary by season, the program provides exciting wildlife engagement, contributing to conservation through monitoring and research.
Students in the 2022 program engaged in diverse wildlife experiences, mastering practical skills in capture and care. Activities included net-gun captures of bontebok for DNA testing and deworming, darting buffaloes for TB testing, and relocating zebras. Notable tasks encompassed relocating wildebeest, treating buffalo for pneumonia, and postmortem examinations of various species. The curriculum covered giraffe capture techniques, extensive roping, and helicopter safety. Students also participated in mass capture operations and administered tranquilizers under veterinary supervision. Course variations may occur between summer and winter sessions.
On weekends, you're free to explore the surrounding area or simply relax at the farmhouse. If you're interested in other activities, Hein or Josephine can assist you with booking or inquiries, which will be at your own expense. After you arrive, the team will discuss your interests to help tailor weekend excursions and suggested activities. We recommend budgeting around R10,000 to R15,000 for the entire duration of your stay.
dive into the details
Why we love it
VETx Game Capture and Care program
Dive deep into the heart of wildlife conservation with the VETx Game Capture and Care program, where you'll gain hands-on experience in the thrilling and vital work of relocating and treating wild animals alongside experienced veterinarians in South Africa's breathtaking landscapes.
learning the critical aspects of veterinary care in the wild,
From mastering the intricacies of darting animals from helicopters to learning the critical aspects of veterinary care in the wild, this program offers an unparalleled opportunity to improve clinical skills and contribute to meaningful conservation efforts.
wildlife professionals
Work closely with a dedicated team of wildlife professionals, including renowned veterinarians Hein and Josephine, who bring years of expertise and a passion for teaching, ensuring you leave with a profound understanding of wildlife capture and care.
embrace the chance to engage with a variety of wildlife species
Beyond the adrenaline-fueled captures and treatments, embrace the chance to engage with a variety of wildlife species, from net-gunning bontebok to dehorning rhinos for conservation, offering a comprehensive insight into the challenges and rewards of veterinary medicine in the field.
Make an enquiry for
VETx Game Capture & Care
Once we receive your enquiry, we will swiftly check for availability and aim to get back to you within 2 business days. Please note that sending this enquiry does not create any obligations for you.
