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Northern Animal Health Initiative (NAHI)

The Northern Animal Health Initiative is focused on improving animal health in Canada's North by providing services for underserved communities across Nunavut and the Northwest Territories. 

Northern Animal Health Initiative (NAHI) clinics offer a unique opportunity to veterinarians (licensed in a Canadian province/territory) and RVTs to contribute to the health and well-being of animals in remote communities, while gaining valuable experience in veterinary practice. 

Applications for the NAHI Spring 2026 Clinics are now CLOSED. Thank you for your interest! We will follow up with applicants directly.

Watch this page for future opportunities to volunteer with NAHI and support our drive-in / fly-in community trips.

We also encourage you to watch this video, which will provide you with information about NAHI. While the video is slightly dated, most of the information remains relevant, with only a few minor changes. 

Thank you for your interest!

We appreciate your interest in volunteering and contributing to our mission and look forward to the possibility of working with you. 
 
Please note: We are a small (but mighty) team. For that reason, we cannot always reply to individual emails and only the candidates who are selected will be contacted. 
 
Thank you for your dedication and enthusiasm for animal health. 

Questions? Please reach out to: northernprogram@vwb.org 

What makes an effective volunteer?

Beyond the technical skills necessary for volunteer placements, we seek individuals who embody a growth mindset and bring a genuine passion for contributing to meaningful change.

Effective volunteers possess a positive attitude and the ability to demonstrate the following key competencies:

  • Self-awareness and self-confidence: Volunteers should have a clear understanding of their strengths and areas for growth, allowing them to navigate challenges with confidence and humility.
  • Communication and collaboration: The ability to engage with diverse teams, listen actively, and share knowledge effectively is crucial for building strong relationships and achieving common goals.
  • Adaptability, resilience, and comfort with uncertainty: International placements often present unpredictable situations, and successful volunteers embrace these challenges with flexibility and a problem-solving mindset.
  • Intercultural and gender sensitivity: Volunteers must be able to engage respectfully with different cultures and communities, promoting inclusion and understanding across gender lines to ensure equitable participation in projects.

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