Shadow a Marine Mammal Vet Tech
Step behind the scenes at Dolphins Plus and experience what it takes to care for our resident bottlenose dolphins alongside our professional veterinary team.
About the Program
An Immersive Journey Into Marine Mammal Care
About the Program
An Immersive Journey Into Marine Mammal Care
Through this immersive, educational experience, participants gain a first-hand
understanding of the teamwork, science, and compassion that go into maintaining
the health and well-being of marine mammals.
The Experience
A Day in the Life
The Experience
A Day in the Life
Spend the day shadowing our veterinary technicians as they work hand-in-hand with our animal care team. From physical exams and ultrasounds to lab work and health monitoring, witness marine mammal medicine in action. Each day is unique—just like the needs of our dolphins—and your experience will reflect real-time animal care activities.
Participants will:
- Observe and participate in dolphin physical examinations and health assessments.
- Learn how our veterinary team collaborates with animal behaviorists to ensure a holistic approach to dolphin health.
- Participate in veterinary rounds lagoon side and behind the scenes in our vet lab.
- Discover how trust and positive reinforcement make voluntary medical behaviors possible.
- Explore diagnostic procedures including ultrasound, sample collection, and lab analysis.
Take Home Your Own Stethoscope
Every participant receives their own stethoscope to use during dolphin exams and take home as a keepsake of their experience.
Professional Insights
Learn from the Experts
Professional Insights
Learn from the Experts
This program offers an authentic look at marine mammal veterinary care — the challenges, rewards, and teamwork required in the field. You’ll gain valuable insight into:
- The importance of preventative medicine and close observation in detecting early signs of illness.
- The critical relationship between animal trainers, veterinary staff, and the dolphins themselves.
- The collaboration required for every medical procedure, from diagnostics to treatment.
Requirements
Participant Requirements
Requirements
Participant Requirements
This immersive program welcomes individuals from all backgrounds who share a curiosity about marine mammal medicine and veterinary care.
- Ages 15 and older
- Passion for marine life
- Ready to learn outdoors
- No prior experience needed
Program Details
- Shadow veterinary technicians throughout their day
- Participate in dolphin exams, ultrasounds, and voluntary sample collections
- Observe sample Processing, slide preparation, and microscopy in the veterinary lab
- Signature Swim dolphin interaction
Your Future Starts Here
Educational Benefits
Your Future Starts Here
Educational Benefits
More than just an experience, this program provides tangible benefits for your educational and professional journey.
- Gain valuable shadowing experience often required for veterinary school applications.
- Strengthen your understanding of the human-animal bond and the foundations of marine mammal medicine.
- Develop professional insights and connections that can help guide your career path.
Our Values
Our Commitment
Our Values
Our Commitment
At Dolphins Plus, we are deeply committed to education, animal welfare, and community engagement. Our Shadow a Vet Tech program gives aspiring professionals and passionate learners a rare opportunity to step into the world of marine mammal medicine — an unforgettable experience that combines science, compassion, and inspiration.
