Two veterinary medicine students from Universitas Gadjah Mada (FVM UGM), Ardelia Kirana Arimurti and Reyhan Alvin Tsany Kurniawan, successfully concluded a 10-day student mobility program at Kasetsart University Veterinary Teaching Hospital in Hua Hin from July 13–24, 2026. The program was conducted in the form of clinical rotations across key small animal healthcare disciplines: the Outpatient Department (OPD), Surgery Unit, Critical Care Unit (CCU), and Inpatient Ward. Throughout the program, students gained direct experience in advanced veterinary practice, allowing the students to refine their clinical capabilities in advanced animal care while adapting to international veterinary practices.
During the Outpatient Department (OPD) rotation, students focused on clinical diagnostics, physical examinations, radiograph and ultrasound interpretations, and treatment plan formulations. In addition, students observed the management of neurological cases, as well as intensive wound care. Students also engaged in diagnostic ultrasonography alongside veterinary specialists to identify pathological conditions, followed by discussing medications and treatments. Through these diverse case encounters, students refined their problem-solving abilities and gained strong practical confidence in managing care consultations and diagnostic workflows.
In the Surgery Unit, the rotation emphasized strict aseptic protocols, patient preparation, surgical assistance, and complex operative procedures. Students mastered non-sterile to sterile zone transition protocols, and scrubbing standards. Students were given the opportunity to practice catheterization, endotracheal intubation, and observe pre-medication, and general anesthesia monitoring. Students also had the opportunity to observe and assist in procedures starting from castration, until complex cases like orthopedic surgery, tumor removal, and endoscopy. Through these hands-on experiences and clinical observations, students significantly enhanced their surgical technique, refined their understanding of perioperative patient care, and built strong practical confidence under expert guidance.
During their rotation in the Critical Care Unit (CCU) and Emergency, students engaged in high-intensity patient monitoring, morning clinical rounds, and emergency management alongside veterinary nurses and specialists. Activities included vitals monitoring, blood collection, blood pressure measurement, and patient’s care. Students evaluated post-operative recovery cases, as well as complex internal medicine conditions involving metabolic disorders and degenerative disease. They also participated in clinical case discussions on critical conditions, ultrasound result, patient diagnosis, and treatment plan. These activities sharpened the students’ clinical reasoning and decision-making capabilities, giving them a deeper understanding of real-time emergency interventions and intensive patient care.
In the Inpatient Ward rotation, students gained experience in inpatient care, therapeutic interventions, and advanced rehabilitation techniques. Participating in daily morning ward rounds across dedicated canine and feline wards, students observed and assisted wound debridement, sterile re-bandaging, and post-operative care. Students also took part in physical therapy utilizing therapeutic ultrasound and electro-acupuncture to promote functional recovery. The exposure from ward rotation allowed students to comprehend post-operative management and rehabilitation, highlighting how targeted therapies significantly improve long-term patient mobility and recovery.
Participating in this exchange program was a highly rewarding journey that greatly enhanced the students’ practical competencies and offered invaluable experience of the Thailand culture. Interactions with veterinarians, hospital staff, and local students, gave students a deeper understanding of the veterinary health care system and broaden perspective on global academic collaboration. The experience offered an precious opportunity to adapt to new environments, grow and learn professionally, and view the veterinary field from a global viewpoint. This program is expected to further strengthen the collaboration between UGM and Kasetsart University, Thailand in the fields of education, research, and student mobility.
This activity supports several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), SDG 15 (Life on Land), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).
