The two-week Egypt Pre-Vet Equine Medicine program, based at a horse rescue and hospital in Cairo, offers participants a unique opportunity to understand the comparative anatomy of equids and the differences in their care. Throughout the program, students acquire new skills during hands-on equine labs that cover topics such as handling, physical and musculoskeletal exams, bandaging, nutrition, preventative medicine, diagnostics, and therapeutics. In addition to their veterinary training, participants will assist in a dog health outreach project, visit the iconic Great Pyramids of Giza, take a boat ride on the Nile River, and explore the vibrant markets of Cairo with a local guide.
This page will take you through everything you need to know about your program. You should READ every section. We've linked additional information under each topic as needed.
Housing will be dorm style with AC. There is some WiFi in common areas, but it's not strong. There is also a pool on site for free time swimming.
Most of your meals will consist of Egyptian style dishes. You'll have lots of Koshari which is a mix of spaghetti noodles, pasta, rice, and chick peas that is filling and delicious! You'll also enjoy lots of hummus and falafel.
Taking the group flight is mandatory unless you live outside of the continental US. Solo fliers are subject to additional fees. If you choose to fly off the group flight, you must first contact admissions@loopabroad.com.
The only items you are required to bring are those on the “required” lists. General required items (like your passport) are found on the ALL PROGRAMS packing list above. Program specific required items are found below under the REQUIRED section. For the rest of the items, you are welcome to use your discretion. There may be items missing from this list that you’d like to bring, and there may be items on this list that you don’t want to bring. If you have any questions, please feel free to ask!
Closed-toed shoes
Sun hat or cap to protect your face from the sun while working outside
Clothes that can get dirty and that cover your knees and shoulders.
Comfy clothes for downtime (shorts and tees!)
Boots or work sneakers (please try for a few days ahead of time to make sure they are comfortable, and bring socks that are comfortable with your shoes). Hiking boots, cowboy boots, work boots, old sneakers are good options.
Journal and several pens
Swimsuit and towel
Sandals with a strap (similar to Teva, Chaco or Keen) that are comfortable for walking for long periods of time
Sun protecting shirts
Sunblock
Hand Sanitizer and Wet Wipes
Tissue or Toilet Paper for your pocket (many public restrooms don't provide toilet paper)
*PREPARE TO BE HOT AND IN THE SUN**
Student ID: You are required to bring your University Student ID so we can get student tickets to the pyramids, sphinx, museums, and other archeological sites!
WIF: You should expect that you will not have access to wifi for most of your time on this program. All assignments have been modified so that they can be completed with pen and paper. Cell service is also very spotty in the hotel and lecture room at the equine center.
Bedding: We will provide you with sheets, pillows, and blankets. It can get cold at night, we recommend bringing your own blanket but will provide an extra if needed.
Towels: Towels are provided but a washcloth is not. We recommend bringing a luffa for multiple use.
Laundry: Laundry is provided once during the middle of the program.
Outlets: Outlets are different - you will need an adapter. Global ones are a popular style and can be used in almost all locations around the world. You can also get a set of these small adapters and just bring the one you need if you prefer
Dress Code: While at markets or in the general public, you must dress modestly. Long sleeve shirts or short sleeves and pants. Sun-protecting shirts are a GREAT option with loose pants. While at the housing location, you can wear shorts and a tank top. While working, we recommend wearing scrub bottoms or lightweight hiking pants, t-shirt with a scrub top to put on when shadowing in the hospital. You must have your knees and shoulders covered at the equine hospital and when in public. Nails should be cut short for animal safety. We encourage you to leave any expensive or fancy jewelry at home.
Money: Most students spend around $200 USD on a two-week program. You’ll likely want to buy things like souvenirs, laundry, snacks or drinks. So you don’t NEED any money, but you’ll want to bring enough that you can buy some things to bring home. We HIGHLY recommend contacting your bank and ordering Egyptian pounds before leaving for the program. There will be an ATM where students can withdraw money - there is an ATM transaction fee each time.