Veterinary Career Center

Peterson Smith Equine Hospital + Complete Care is currently accepting externs

Located in Ocala, “the Heart of Florida.” We are only 90 miles north of Orlando and 90 miles west of Daytona Beach. Ocala, an award winning All-American City, is known for its National Forests, and crystal clear springs. It is “Ocala/Marion County – Horse Capital of the World.” It boasts of rolling hills and majestic tree-lined scenic country roads and is home to over 1,000 horse farms.  Despite being a virtual showcases to every equine breed, it is firmly anchored by the Thoroughbred industry, both in breeding and training, and has produced many of the Thoroughbred racing industry’s top stars. 

Peterson Smith Equine Hospital welcomes visits from veterinary students from all over the world. We do not have a rigidly structured program for students but instead allow them the flexibility to discover what aspects of the practice interest them.  This enables the students to choose whether they go out in the field or remain at the hospital.  We expect our students to assist practitioners as needed. Depending on case load, they will be expected to help with after-hours emergencies.

Students are primarily here to observe, but some hands-on work will be available.  This is dictated by the nature of the horse industry in the Ocala area.  However, our high case load, combined with the knowledge and expertise of our veterinarians provides a strong learning environment.  Externships are available at our main clinic in Ocala, FL and at our Advanced Fertility Center in Summerfield, FL. 

Housing is provided and furnished with bed linens, towels, dishes, etc. We provide this accommodation free of charge to students.  All other expenses are the responsibility of the student including car rental, and transportation to and from the airport. 

Interns for the hospital, ambulatory, and reproduction departments are usually picked from externs who have visited the practice. 

To apply for an externship please send a letter of intent and CV to Ashley Hudson at ahudson@petersonsmith.com

About Peterson Smith Equine Hospital + Complete Care

Peterson Smith Equine Hospital + Complete Care is a full service equine practice in the heart of Ocala, Florida’s horse country. Established in 1981 it has grown to one of the most highly recognized equine practices in the United States. We are always striving to remain one of the leading veterinary practices on an international level by providing state-of-the-art diagnostics, surgery and medicine for our patients and to foster a relationship of professionalism and integrity with our clients. Our services provided range from single patient management to large farm consultations. In addition to offering educational and practical experience opportunities to students with an equine interest, we offer continuing education opportunities to both veterinarians and horse owners

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