Exotic 4th Year Externship Choice

[tinykiwi]

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I have a strong interest in exotic pet practice. I'm trying to decide whether to shadow an exotic practitioner that works in general practice or a exotic specialist. I'm trying to get opinions on which choice would be more beneficial to me after graduation.

If I go do an externship with the exotic practitioner, I get practical experience with more common cases that I'm likely to see in clinical practice, but on the other hand if I go with the exotic specialist, I will get to see techniques and treatments that I probably wouldn't get to see in clinical practice; which I think would be great to get exposure to.

Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated! 🙂

 

[WhtsThFrequency]

I have a strong interest in exotic pet practice. I'm trying to decide whether to shadow an exotic practitioner that works in general practice or a exotic specialist. I'm trying to get opinions on which choice would be more beneficial to me after graduation.

If I go do an externship with the exotic practitioner, I get practical experience with more common cases that I'm likely to see in clinical practice, but on the other hand if I go with the exotic specialist, I will get to see techniques and treatments that I probably wouldn't get to see in clinical practice; which I think would be great to get exposure to.

Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated! 🙂

I'm a bit confused as to your separation of the two terms. When you say exotic practitioner, do you mean a general small animal vet who also sees exotics from time to time?

If you mean a vet who only or mainly sees exotics when you say "exotics practitioner" then you by definition mean an exotics specialist.

 

[CalliopeDVM]

What's an "exotic specialist"? The AVBP has specialties in exotic mammals and avian medicine, but holders of either are probably working as GPs for those species (i.e. not on a referral basis).

 

[pp9]

What's an "exotic specialist"? The AVBP has specialties in exotic mammals and avian medicine, but holders of either are probably working as GPs for those species (i.e. not on a referral basis).

ACZM has a subset for exotic companion animal specialty. You're still an ACZM diplomate, but you took a slightly different exam. You'd be an "exotics specialist" and I know individuals both in GP and at teaching hospitals with this certification.

I have a strong interest in exotic pet practice. I'm trying to decide whether to shadow an exotic practitioner that works in general practice or a exotic specialist. I'm trying to get opinions on which choice would be more beneficial to me after graduation.

If I go do an externship with the exotic practitioner, I get practical experience with more common cases that I'm likely to see in clinical practice, but on the other hand if I go with the exotic specialist, I will get to see techniques and treatments that I probably wouldn't get to see in clinical practice; which I think would be great to get exposure to.

Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated! 🙂

U of I just got an ACZM diplomate who specializes in companion exotics. We've had externs come through and our exotics service functions as both a GP and referral service. You get both worlds-practical experience, then the unique/'crazy' experiences.

 

[tinykiwi]

Sorry for the confusion. I believe both vets are board-certified exotic animal veterinarians, however where they work at is different. One works in a 100% exotic-only general practice; while the other works at a referral clinic that services only exotic cases. From my understanding, they have the capability to do more non-routine procedures for their patients.