Animal lovers are often looking for ways to
take an active part in wildlife conservation efforts, however their attempts to
locate a place where they can have a meaningful impact can often end at the
doors of dubious ‘voluntourism’ organisations. Unfortunately, some
organisations are companies that rely on profits rather than preservation, and
others, although well-meaning can unknowingly do more harm than good. If you would
like to go beyond a photo opportunity, you will need to dig deep and do your
research.
Here are some pointers to help you get started:
Find out about the
roster. Volunteer
work can be arduous and require long hours working in less than ideal
conditions (heat, cold, etc). Other projects only work a few hours a week. Do
not commit more time and energy than you can afford or you may be left with
your expectations not being met.
Bring a partner or
friend. Animal
volunteer work is rewarding and challenging. If you have a friend to share the
experience with, it is less difficult when you arrive home as you have someone
local you can share your laughs, memories and experiences with, good and bad.
Find out the physical
requirements. Find
out how physically demanding the volunteer work is. Chopping corn for elephants
on a 40 degree day is not easy! You may prefer feeding squid to turtles and
scratching their backs instead. Choose
an animal volunteering program according to what energy output you are
seeking and ensure that you can manage the work if you have a medical
condition. Many projects offer programs for mature age and people with special
needs. Speak to the project coordinator and get a good feel for whether it is
for you. Ask them what project would suit. Choose your project according to
your abilities and your limitations.
Find out if the work
requires any special training or certification. Most organisations will provide you with all
the necessary training, tools and materials. However, some special projects,
internships and projects (vet work) may need additional qualifications or even
a University degree.
Find out about the
animals on the project. You will get the most out of your placement if you know about the types of animals you will be working with and how
close you will be getting to them. There may be projects that you discard
because of the local, wild animal population. For example, if you are hesitant
about snakes and spiders, then don’t volunteer in the Amazon!
Find out about the
health risks involved
with animal volunteering and the vaccinations that are required for your
placement. Contact with diseased wildlife can be risky if you are not properly
protected. A good volunteer organisation will ensure you are up to date with
all your vaccinations.
Find out if the
organisation has a support system in place for medical emergencies. How does the organisation handle
volunteer injuries or accidents? How far away is the nearest hospital?
