NATUWA Macaw Sanctuary stands as a beacon of hope in the verdant heart of Aranjuez, Puntarenas Province, Costa Rica—a tranquil country town renowned for its friendly locals and picturesque dirt roads. Our sanctuary emerges as a vital haven, providing refuge and a new lease on life to wild animals that have fallen victim to the dire consequences of hunting, deforestation, and displacement from their natural habitats. Nestled in the lush landscapes of Costa Rica, our veterinary program offers a unique blend of hands-on wildlife care, cultural immersion, and practical veterinary education under the guidance of an esteemed veterinary doctor who leads our students through daily tasks with dedication and expertise.

Interns are welcomed into a structured program designed to span several months or a minimum of two weeks, offering a profound dive into the world of tropical wildlife rehabilitation and veterinary science. This commitment not only promises a transformative journey but also ensures that the skills and knowledge gained are comprehensive and deeply rooted in real-world experience. In the midst of this rich biodiversity, our Veterinary Internship Program unfolds as a critical component of our mission. Interns engage directly in the care and rehabilitation of our diverse inhabitants, which includes a myriad of exotic species: six species of macaw, including the vibrant Scarlet Macaw, a symbol of the wilderness of the Americas; umbrella cockatoos with their enchanting crests; four species of the chatty Amazon parrots; seven species of the nimble parakeets; the charismatic Eclectus parrots; and a variety of primates ranging from spider monkeys to the dexterous tamarin monkeys. Our enclosure also provides a safe habitat for terrestrial species like collared peccaries, graceful deer, sturdy tapirs, ocelots, and majestic jaguars.

Volunteers have the invaluable opportunity to become involved in specialized behavioral management for each species, a key technique that enhances the quality of life of our animals and provides volunteers with technical skills that are highly esteemed in the fields of veterinary medicine and wildlife conservation. You will acquire direct experience in methods such as targeted training, using non-injurious practice darts, and learn the delicate art of animal care, tailored to meet the varied needs of our animals, from the careful handling of macaws, which require training for flying and performing acrobatics, to the cautious management of jaguars, whose stealthy behavior must be understood and respected.

Each day begins with a comprehensive round to ensure the well-being of all our animals, setting the tone for a day filled with meaningful interaction and care. Our established routine involves the meticulous feeding of various species, special attention to convalescing animals, and the provision of environmental enrichment to stimulate and promote natural behaviors.

A significant part of our program is the behavioral management of our animals, where students learn to administer training techniques that aid in medical care. For instance, monkeys are habituated to receiving yogurt through syringes, a practice that eases the administration of medication when necessary by blending it with palatable treats like honey. Students are actively involved in the healing and convalescence processes of animals, working alongside the veterinary doctor—our on-site expert who is a constant pillar of knowledge and support. The program is further enhanced by the weekly visits from another veterinary specialist, ensuring a comprehensive learning experience. Surgeries, when needed, are conducted in our clinic, which, while not as technologically advanced as those in more sophisticated zoological settings, is equipped for a variety of procedures such as blood sampling and laboratory analysis. Our microscope is an essential tool for conducting coprological exams, crucial for early parasite detection. Beyond the clinical aspects, students contribute to the maintenance of our sanctuary, including tasks like cleaning turtle shells and caring for reptiles. Any injured wildlife brought in by local community members is skillfully treated with the goal of rehabilitation and, if possible, release back into their natural habitat in accordance with government permissions. In their leisure time, students are encouraged to engage with the local community, whether by visiting the local sports plaza or venturing on cultural days out facilitated by rented minibusses for longer excursions. Embarking on this journey with NATUWA Macaw Sanctuary is not merely about developing veterinary skills but also about leaving a lasting impact on the environment, participating in a vibrant cultural exchange, and forging unforgettable memories while making strides in wildlife conservation. Join us in our endeavor to heal, protect, and understand the precious wildlife of Costa Rica and be a part of a story where every day is a step towards a brighter, more sustainable future. This veterinary program is not just a learning experience—it's an adventure that weaves animal care with cultural exploration, offering an unparalleled journey into the heart of wildlife medicine in one of the most biodiverse countries on Earth.