Spaying It Forward Training
Our training programme is designed for registered veterinary surgeons and offers the opportunity to refresh and enhance existing skills through a combination of online learning and practical, hands-on experience. All training is based on the latest international standards, with animal welfare at the heart of everything we do.
The online component is accessed via our dedicated training platform and can be completed at your own pace. Once the online modules have been successfully completed, you will become eligible for the practical training element.
Practical training consists of a total of four days across our clinics: two days in Dogstar’s cat clinic and two days in the dog field clinic. During this time, you will have the opportunity to apply your online learning through observation and active participation in the day-to-day work of each clinic. This includes observing and, where appropriate, participating in surgical procedures.
Online Training Modules
• Welcome to Dogstar Training
• Animal Welfare
• Cleaning, Disinfecting and Sterilising
• Asepsis and Prevention of Surgical Infection
• Dog Body Condition Scoring
• Multimodal Analgesia
• Introduction to Buprenorphine
• Medetomidine and Atipamezole
• Rational Choice of Suture Material
• Surgical Instruments
To register for our online training, please complete this form.
Join our veterinary team at Dogstar Foundation
Are you a Sri Lankan veterinarian looking to kickstart your career or deepen your animal welfare and surgery expertise? Dogstar Foundation, an international animal welfare NGO, seeks passionate and dedicated veterinary professionals for our pre-intern and post-intern positions.
Based in Negombo, we offer a unique opportunity to contribute to our evidence-based dog and cat population management programmes in Western and North Western Provinces, adhering to the highest international welfare and veterinary surgery standards.
Current vacancies
Veterinary Surgeon – Mobile Spay/Neuter Programme (Full-Time)
Step into a high-welfare, hands-on surgical role working on Dogstar’s mobile spay–neuter clinics across Sri Lanka. This full-time postis ideal for vets with 0–3 years’ surgical experience who want intensive mentoring in high-volume, high-welfare CNVR, anaesthesia and analgesia, while making a direct One Health impact for dogs, cats and the communities who live alongside them.
Research Veterinarian – One Health & Population Data (Full or Part-Time)
Lead impactful research using over 10 years of Dogstar’s extensive programme data to inform best practice in dog and cat population management, One Health and antimicrobial stewardship. In this flexible full or part-time role, you will design your own studies, publish in peer-reviewed journals, and collaborate with Sri Lankan and international universities and researchers to translate findings into practical recommendations for policy-makers, partners and frontline veterinary teams in Sri Lanka.
Why choose Dogstar Foundation?
- World-class training: We offer a comprehensive training journey, gaining hands-on experience in high-welfare surgical techniques to ensure the highest level of care for our animals.
- Continual professional development: We are committed to your growth, offering continuous CPD opportunities in Sri Lanka and overseas to enhance your skills and knowledge in the ever-evolving field of veterinary medicine.
- Anaesthesia and analgesia management: Learn Total Intravenous Anaesthesia (TIVA), Gas Anaesthesia and Multimodal Pain Management under the guidance of our senior vets.
- High Welfare Setting: Our ethos centres on high welfare standards. You’ll be part of a team that not only values the health and well-being of every animal, but also ensures a compassionate and ethical approach to veterinary care.
- One Health & responsible antibiotic use: Be part of a One Health, One Welfare approach that connects animal, human and environmental health, with a strong focus on responsible antibiotic use and tackling antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
What we’re looking for:
- Team players with strong interpersonal skills. Collaboration, respect and communication are key at Dogstar. We value individuals who can work seamlessly with our diverse team, contributing positively to our collective goals.
Benefits of working with us:
- Competitive salary and benefits package: including CPD and visiting international specialists.
- Uniform provided: t-shirt, scrubs and scrub cap.
- Accommodation: free accommodation and meals are provided.
Join us in setting new benchmarks in animal welfare and veterinary excellence. Apply today and be a part of a team that’s making a real difference in the lives of animals and people in Sri Lanka.
To apply: Send your CV and an email detailing the position you are applying for and why you believe you are a perfect fit for Dogstar Foundation to [email protected].
We look forward to hearing from you!