WELCOME TO
VETX GAME CAPTURE AND CARE
Embark on an unparalleled adventure in South Africa with the VETx Game Capture and Care programme. 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.
Highlights of the VETx Game Capture and Care Programme:
- 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 programme 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 programme has something for everyone. Moreover, for groups of seven or more, bespoke programmes are crafted to align with specific educational curricula. - A Broader Impact:
Beyond the immediate activities, the programme emphasizes a holistic understanding of conservation. Engage in a plethora of activities, including wildlife monitoring and pivotal research initiatives.
A Journey Beyond the Ordinary:
The VETx Game Capture and Care programme promises a voyage into the very soul of Africa. While specific activities might vary based on the season, the essence of adventure, learning, and meaningful impact remains constant. Are you ready to make a difference and etch unforgettable memories in the sands of time? Join us on this exhilarating journey.
More insights
Introducing the people, you will be working with
Hein, the project coordinator and wildlife vet, has dedicated the last 18 years of his career to the wildlife industry. With countless captures under his belt, he has worked with and treated most of the wild species found in Africa. He combines his vast personal experience with his skill in teaching and sharing his knowledge, making him a great asset to this course.
Josephine, is a highly passionate veterinarian from Denmark who went through the programmein January 2022, before joining Hein to help run the course. She provides mentorship and assistance to ensure that every student gets the most practical exposure possible.
You will also work with various capture teams, wildlife professionals and wildlife veterinarians as part of this programme.
QUICK FACTS
GENERAL
- Up to 9 participants, 3-week course with 5 - 6 start dates per year.
- Minimum age: 18
TRAVEL AND TRANSFERS
- Arrive/depart at George Airport (GRJ), South Africa.
- 30-minute road transfer from George Airport to the project (return) is included.
MEALS & MORE
- Full-board meals, drinking water, coffee, tea are included.
- Free Wi-Fi available; local SIM/data can be purchased at Johannesburg airport or George town
ADDITIONAL ADVENTURES
- Weekends free for exploration. After arrival, the team will tailor weekend excursions based on your interests.
Activity Overview
dive into the details
Accomodation
You will be based in a welcoming and relaxing farmhouse with great food and warm beds. The farmhouse has shared rooms and bathrooms, both of which are separated by gender. There is a bathroom inside the farmhouse equipped with a bath, a shower, a basin and a toilet. There are also have three bathrooms outside with toilets, basins and showers. There is one outside shower. All facilities have hot water. Captures take place all over South Africa during the winter months, so accommodations vary based on the locations visited. They include comfortable farmhouses, tents and lodges, with either solar power or regular electricity.
Meals
You'll be provided with three daily meals throughout your stay. If you have any specific dietary requirements, please let us know at the time of booking so the project can accommodate your needs. For breakfast, a continental self-serve is available, including juice, tea, coffee, toast, cereals, muesli, yoghurt, and fresh seasonal fruits.Lunch options often consist of sandwiches, wraps, salads, quiche, pasta salads, and local traditional dishes.In the evenings, you can enjoy traditional South African meals cooked over an open fire such as braai, bobotie with rice and vegetables, and potjiekos, or build-your-own pizzas and lasagne.
Communication
Upon arrival you can purchase a sim-card (Vodacom), which can be used at the farm. The Wi-Fi signal around the farmhouse is reliable and suitable for Facetime, phone calls, and browsing the internet. However, it may not be strong enough for streaming services.
Communal Facilities
The living room is accessible to all students for relaxation, whether it's reading a book or snuggling with our friendly pup or house kittens. You'll find a bookshelf with selected books and board games for your entertainment. The garden offers a serene setting for enjoying the sunshine while reading, and our traditional lapa hosts social activities such as bonfires, braais (South African barbecue), and games like pool and darts.
Laundry
Laundry service is provided once a week free of charge.
Laundry
There is a bar where snacks, soft drink and alcoholic drinks can be purchased. Bills are calculated on a weekly basis and charged in South African rands.
Dates
Interested in participating in the VETx Game Capture and Care course? Here's what you need to know: If you're keen on taking part in the VETx Game Capture and Care course, don't hesitate to contact us to inquire about availability and dates. The project offers this course 4-5 times a year.Additionally, if you're a Vet, Vet-tech, or Vet-nurse student and would like to book this experience as a group and incorporate it into your curriculum, we can design a comprehensive program for groups of at least 7 students. Get in touch with us to learn more.
Prices (2024) Per Person Sharing
3weeks – 3,395 EUR
The Price Includes:
Accommodation & house keeping throughout your stay
3 meals a day
Laundry service
Scheduled airport pick-up to/from George Airport
24/7 support
Wi-Fi access
Study materials & online course
Theoretical lectures and practical exercises
Guidance and support throughout your stay
The Price Does Not Include:
Flights
Travel insurance
Visa-related costs
Off-day trips or tours before/during/after your program incl. transport
Snacks, soft drinks, gifts, and souvenirs
Booking Form & Additional Information
Once you've decided to join the VETx Game Capture and Care as a student, we'll send you a booking form to complete with your personal details, contact information, medical history incl. blood type, and travel plans.Along with the booking form, we'll provide you with additional information, including a packing list and project guidelines.
Location
he VETx Game Capture & Care is based in the Mossel Bay area, along the Garden Route in the Western Cape. Depending on the season, we also travel around the Western Cape. Sometimes work brings us to the Eastern and Northern capes.
Climate & Seasons
The Western Cape in South Africa has a Mediterranean climate, which means it experiences warm, dry summers and cool, wet winters. The region has four distinct seasons: summer, autumn, winter, and spring.
Summer (December to February): The weather during this season is warm and dry, with temperatures typically ranging from 20°C (68°F) to 28°C (82°F). Sometimes, temperatures can reach as high as 35°C (95°F) on hotter days. There isn't much rainfall during this time, making it a great time for outdoor activities.
Autumn (March to May): Autumn in the Western Cape is a mild season, with temperatures cooling down gradually. The average temperature during this time ranges from 15°C (59°F) to 25°C (77°F). The leaves on the trees change color, creating a beautiful landscape, and there might be occasional rain showers.
Winter (June to August): Winter is the coolest and wettest season in the Western Cape, with temperatures ranging from 7°C (45°F) to 18°C (64°F). During this time, the region experiences more frequent rainfall, and sometimes even snowfall on the surrounding mountain ranges.
Spring (September to November): Spring in the Western Cape sees the return of warmer temperatures, ranging from 13°C (55°F) to 22°C (72°F). This season is characterized by an increase in sunshine and a decrease in rainfall. It's a great time to enjoy the outdoors, as the flowers begin to bloom and the landscape comes alive with color.
Keep in mind that these temperatures and conditions are general guidelines, and the weather can vary from year to year. It's always a good idea to check the local forecast before planning outdoor activities or travel.
This guide will provide you with essential information for a smooth journey to and from the VETx Game Capture & Care, including details on flights, transportation, vaccinations, visa, and travel insurance.
Flight Itenerary
For students joining the shared transfer to VETx Game Capture & Care, please book your flights to arrive on Saturday and depart on Sunday from George Airport (GRJ).
Airport Transfer
The VETx Game Capture & Care will arrange the shared transfer between the farm and George Airport, taking approximately 45 minutes.
Vaccinations
We strongly advise you to consult your doctor to ensure you have the appropriate vaccinations for your trip. The Western Cape district, where VETx Game Capture & Care is located, is a malaria-free area. Here are some of the most common vaccinations recommended for travel to South Africa:
Hepatitis A: Recommended for all travellers to South Africa, regardless of the length of stay or their planned activities.
Typhoid: Recommended for all travellers to South Africa.
Yellow fever: Required for travellers coming from countries with a risk of yellow fever transmission.
Rabies: Recommended for travellers who plan to spend a lot of time outdoors or work with animals.
Tetanus: Recommended for all travellers.
You can learn more about recommended vaccinations here.
Visa Information
Tourist visas are automatically granted to visitors from most countries, including the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, and most EU nations, upon arrival in South Africa. The visa is valid for up to 90 days, so ensure your passport has at least 2 blank pages for immigration use and is valid for at least 6 months beyond your arrival date. To check if your country qualifies for the visa exemption, please consult the South African government's list of exempt countries here.
Travel Insurance
Throughout your entire trip, it's mandatory to have valid travel insurance that covers all costs associated with emergencies or incidents, including air rescue, hospital or medical expenses, and flights. You can either contact your local travel insurance agent or consider our recommendation, World Nomads.
Credit Card & Cash
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted throughout the Western Cape region, and there is an ATM in the nearby town where you can withdraw cash (SouthAfrican Rand).
"AMAZING TRIP!
Mikkel & Lost Adventures helped us book the most amazing trip to South Africa! We were a group of 9 girls who had to find a place to do volunteer work as veterinary nurses. He has a lot of knowledge about many different places in Africa and helped us find the perfect place for our group! And everything went perfect. He helped with all practical matters and was always available for questions when needed. Can definitely recommend!! "
-Anne Egeberg Jensen, Denmark
"3 WEEKS IN SOUTH AFRICA
We were a group of 9 young women, who through Mikkel, booked the coolest trip to South Africa ever!All the way through, the most fantastic journey. Great experience.Everything went according to plan and Mikkel helped us through the paper work. He made it so easy. Felt safe though the whole thing.Can definitely recommend!"
-LOUISE MARK VEGEBERG, Denmark
"WE HAD THE MOST AMAZING TRIP TO SOUTH...
We had the most amazing trip to South Africa thanks to Mikkel and Lost Adventures!
Would 100% recommend!"
-SOFIE HEIBERG, Denmark
WHY we love it
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.
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.
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.
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.