Volunteer Veterinarians Needed in the Cook Islands

Vets Beyond Borders (VBB) partner organisation Te Are Manu (TAM) Veterinary Clinic in the Cook Islands is seeking additional volunteer veterinarians for placements throughout the remainder of 2026.

Located in beautiful Rarotonga, Te Are Manu has become one of VBB’s most loved and rewarding volunteer placements, offering veterinarians the opportunity to combine meaningful clinical work with an unforgettable cultural and lifestyle experience in the Pacific.

TAM plays a vital role in improving animal welfare across the Cook Islands, with volunteers assisting in shelter medicine, desexing programs, community animal welfare initiatives and day-to-day clinical support. Volunteers work alongside a passionate local team dedicated to improving the lives of animals in a region where veterinary resources can be limited.

There is currently an urgent need for veterinarians during the following periods:

• 20 July – 24 August (ideally two veterinarians)
• 18/19 September – 18 October (ideally two veterinarians)
• 30 October onwards through to the end of the year

The minimum placement period is two weeks, although longer stays are welcomed and greatly appreciated. Accommodation is included, while flights are at the volunteer’s own expense.

VBB continues to receive outstanding feedback from volunteers who describe their time with TAM as professionally rewarding, personally enriching and an opportunity to make a genuine difference to both animals and the local community.

For veterinarians looking to contribute their skills in a meaningful way while experiencing the unique beauty and hospitality of the Cook Islands, this is a rare and rewarding opportunity.

To express interest or apply, visit the VetMatch program page at:
https://vetsbeyondborders.org/program/vetmatch/

For further information, contact VBB Volunteer Coordinator Sylvana Wenderhold at:
sylvana.wenderhold@vetsbeyondborders.org

Photo: Dr Rachael Crosbie - AVA member - who volunteered at Te Are Manu in 2025.