Volunteering in Domestic Animal Shelter

  Guatemala

Durations of Program: 2-4 weeks, 5-8 weeks, 9-12 weeks, 3-6 months and 7-12 months
Typical Duration of Program: 2-4 weeks
Dates: ongoing

Description: The Shelter is situated in a hilly, wooded area in the central highlands of Guatemala, Central America, at about 2100 metres above sea level. As of June 2008 the Shelter houses some 220 dogs, 76 cats, and 5 rabbits. The organization (AWARE - Animal Welfare Assoc. - Rescue & Education) runs spay/neuter and rabies vaccination clinics both in the on-site vet clinic and in towns and villages throughout Guatemala. AWARE also provides Humane Education programmes in schools. Volunteer tasks range from cleaning pens and dog-runs to bathing, brushing, exercising dogs, socialising dogs and cats, helping care for sick animals, to assisting in spay/neuter clinics and educational programmes, and possibly include construction/maintenance work.

Highlights: One extremely gratifying aspect of your work as a volunteer at the AWARE shelter is watching a mange-ridden, cringing bag of bones turn into a beautiful, healthy dog bounding through the woods with joy in her heart. Another highlight is of course Guatemala itself - one of the most beautiful and colourful countries in the world enjoying the rich cultural heritage of the Maya.

Qualifications: This is a volunteer programme and the only requirements are a love for animals, basic knowledge of handling domestic animals, enthusiasm, and the ability to exercise initiative and work independently. A current tetanus vaccination is also required. Some knowledge of Spanish is also a great help.

Cost in US$: 5 per day

Experience Required: yes

Basic animal care experience

Typical Volunteer: A young adult or couple travelling independently through Central and/or Latin America in good physical shape not daunted by the prospect of hard work and able to work at relatively high altitude with enthusiasm resourcefulness and a love for animals, not dependent on regular access to nightlife

Age Range: 20 - 50

This Program is open to American, Australian, Canadian, European, Kiwi, South African and World Wide Participants. This Program is also open to Couples and Individuals

Participants Travel to Guatemala Independently

Typically Participants Work Independently

Application Process Involves:

• Written Application

AWARE (Animal Welfare, Rescue and Education)'s Mission Statement: Alleviate the suffering of abandoned, injured and sick domestic animals in Guatemala

Year Founded: 1992