Volun­teering USA Florida Animal Welfare – Margaux

Profile

Name: Margaux

Age: 29

Project: Animal welfare in Florida/USA

Locations: Florida/USA

Duration: Beginning until end of October 2018 – 4 weeks

Rating

Support from the Natucate team:

Arrival:

Project partner:

Accommodation:

Volunteering in the USA – Feedback: Eight questions for Margaux

1) Could you give us a short overview about your tasks during the project?

As a volunteer I completed different tasks of an animal carer: cleaning animal compounds, preparing food, feeding animals, observing animal behaviour. Also, I was working on new projects to improve the sanctuary facilities.

2) What were your biggest challenges during the project?

My biggest challenge was learning an entire new job (animal carer) in a foreign language – this included quickly working independently and having responsibilities inside the sanctuary.

3) Was there anything you liked most? Or anything that left you with a negative impression?

I loved working so closely with all the animals and being able to take some time and observe them.

4) Did you have certain expectations before you started the project?

In my opinion, the project matches exactly with my expectations in terms of work with animals and knowledge acquisition. There aren’t any nearby opportunities for spare time activities, so the project is suitable for people who want to be in a calm environment.

5) Did you do anything during your free time that you can recommend to following participants?

As the accommodation is very isolated, unless participants have a car and are willing to drive for 30 – 40 minutes (to closest towns), there aren’t any activities. The work is hard, so the accommodation is a great place to rest in the evening.

6) Which recommendations would you give to other participants?

Be motivated and willing to work hard every day. The sanctuary is very serious about its work and is completely dedicated to the well-being of all animals. Participants will be asked to get involved in all tasks.

7) Can you guess how many additional expenses you had?

Not much as there are not many activities around.

8) Here is some space for further suggestions or stories:

This rescue project is great for people who want to dedicate themselves to taking care of animals’ well-being. The project works with utmost dedication; I could definitely feel the passion of owners and employees there. They expect volunteers to be seriously involved in all tasks. The project is perfect for participants who want to learn more about an animal carer’s work. It’s not a place for holidays, participants need to be fine with staying in a calm environment, isolated from towns and close to nature.