Experiences

Submitted by Katherine Ramirez Lopez, Western University of Health Sciences

SeaVet: A Deep Dive into Aquatic Animal Medicine

In the hot and humid summer month of June, I had the incredible opportunity to participate in the SeaVet Clinical Training program offered through the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine (Go Gators!). As a California native, I was thrilled to make the journey from the Golden State to the Sunshine State, where I fell in love with the charming town of Gainesville. From its picturesque parks to its vibrant springs, Gainesville added an extra layer of enjoyment to an already amazing experience.

The SeaVet program, structured into two dynamic weeks, offers an exceptional chance for veterinary students and veterinarians to dive into the world of marine animal medicine. Through hands-on workshops, engaging lectures, and field trips to marine institutions, participants learn about a variety of aquatic animal species directly from top experts in the field. This blend of classroom knowledge and real-world experience provides a unique glimpse into the care and conservation of aquatic animals. For anyone passionate about marine life and considering a career in this field, SeaVet is truly an invaluable stepping stone.

The program was a whirlwind of engaging lectures on topics such as marine mammal anatomy, cetacean strandings, and fish hematology. Why does a manatee’s brain look the way it does? How do you perform a physical exam on a stingray? What goes into conducting wildlife health assessments? All of these questions were answered, along with many more, covering topics I hadn’t even realized applied to marine life. What made this program more rewarding was the diversity of participants. Since the program welcomed both vet students and veterinarians, I met peers from U.S., European, and Caribbean vet schools. The connections I formed with these like-minded individuals, all driven by a shared passion for aquatic animal medicine, were inspiring. I also had the privilege of meeting veterinarians from across the globe, picking their brains about life after vet school, and getting their advice on how to get involved in the field. We were also treated to a variety of career stories from professionals working at the Georgia Aquarium, Clearwater Marine Aquarium, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Hearing how each veterinarian carved out their unique path to aquatic medicine was not only informative but incredibly encouraging, proving that there is no single road to success in this niche field.

My favorite parts of the program were the field trips and sea turtle necropsy lab. These experiences were more than just a refreshing break from the classroom—they allowed us to see our theoretical knowledge come to life, bridging the gap between learning and real-world application. Our first trip to ZooTampa at Lowry Park, consisted of a Q&A session with their veterinary staff. This was a perfect opportunity to ask all my burning career-related questions and learn more about potential externship opportunities for my fourth year. We also toured the zoo, getting an up-close look at its Manatee Critical Care Center, an unforgettable experience! The second trip took us behind the scenes at SeaWorld Orlando. There, we spoke with veterinarians and animal care staff responsible for the well-being of walruses, dolphins, orcas, penguins, and sharks. I even had the chance to witness a blood draw on an orca as part of their preventive bloodwork care. Interacting with these professionals gave me confidence and motivation, as they generously shared their journeys and advice on navigating this competitive yet rewarding field.

Finally, the sea turtle necropsy lab was a hands-on highlight, allowing me to apply everything I had just learned in lectures about turtle anatomy. While I had done necropsies before, this session gave me the chance to hone my skills and gain a deeper understanding of marine species. It was an invaluable experience that I know will shape my clinical abilities moving forward.

Looking back, the SeaVet program was more than just an educational opportunity. It reignited my passion for marine animal medicine, introduced me to mentors and colleagues I’ll stay connected with for years to come, and gave me the confidence to pursue this specialized field with full force. For any veterinary student eager to explore the world of aquatic animal medicine, SeaVet can open doors personally and professionally.