Animal Welfare Volunteering (2 programs)
Santa Martha Rescue Center
 About the institution
Santa Martha Rescue Center is an animal sanctuary located in the Andean mountains of Ecuador. Its main goal is to rescue wild animals from unhealthy and illegal situations, which have been the victims of animal-trafficking or mistreatment. Operating since 2001, the center is locally owned by an Ecuadorian couple and is situated in their 65 hectare dairy farm, 1 hour south of Quito. It is surrounded by rolling hills and majestic volcanoes. Santa Martha is completely reliant on its volunteers and other donations to keep running. It is important to clarify that Santa Martha is not a zoo; its goal is to rehabilitate the animals and this means interfering with them as little as possible. Typical animals you are likely to find at the foundation are: pumas, lions, jaguars, Andean spectacled bears, monkeys, parrots, toucans, coatis, ocelots, turtles.
Description of the work
The principal role that takes up most of the time is feeding and cleaning. Twice a day volunteers work very closely with the animals to supervise that they are all provided for. In addition, volunteers are constantly looking for ways to improve existing facilities, hence improving a more natural environment for the animals in which wild instincts can be reinforced and nurtured. The building of bigger, better and more natural enclosures is an extremely important part of the work.
Keep in mind
The number of volunteer programs in Ecuador dedicated to animals is extremely small, since most projects involve social activities. This opportunity is unique and your help will be invaluable. It is important that you are physically fit, enthusiastic and have a great love for animals. The atmosphere is of great communal living.
Time: Minimum 2 weeks
Schedule is:
Monday to Friday
08:00 to 13:00 Varied activities
13:00 to 16:00 free
16:00 to 18:00 Varied activities
Saturdays:
08:00 to 11:00
Saturday afternoon and Sunday: free.
A great opportunity to travel around.
Board and Lodging:
Only lodging. Comfortable detached houses. There are 2 houses for volunteers; each can host 6 volunteers at the same time. They have all desired facilities: hot showers, TV, stereo, DVD and fully equipped kitchen.
Costs: $85 per week
Volunteers contribute $10 to $15 each week to shop at the local market and cook together as a flat.
Most meals are vegetarian.
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