Orientation
When you arrive at the project you will have a day to settle in and you will be given a detailed orientation.
Volunteers will receive an orientation including:
- Basic animal care techniques
- Formula and diet preparation
- Proper bedding and housing
- Enrichment
- Cleaning
- Maintenance
- Safety procedures and regulations
- Training within the area you will be working
Accommodation and Meals
You will be staying in shared living quarters either in small cabins or static caravans on the sanctuary grounds. The accommodation is basic but comfortable with private bathrooms with hot showers, electricity, air conditioning, TV, DVD and VCR. Linen will be provided. Laundry facilities and a full kitchen are available in the main house. There is an onsite phone that you can be used with a prepaid phone card.
Female volunteers generally stay in the cabins while male volunteers are accommodated in the static caravans. Meals are home-cooked in the fully equipped kitchens in the main house or in the volunteers’ quarters and most of the cooking and cleanup duties are rotated among participants. Vegetarian or vegan meals are available upon request.
Free Time
You will have evenings free and one day off each week (although volunteers are needed on-site seven days per week). During this day off you can stay at the rescue centre or you can opt to do some independent travel. Volunteers generally organise activities together for evenings and days off such as day trips to the local cities of Tampa, Sarasota or Orlando.
You will have plenty of time to relax and unwind as the rehab centre is located in a rural area and there is not a local bus service available. It may be a good idea to take books and games for leisure time and in the evenings where you can socialise with the other volunteers.
Project Age Limit
Minimum 21 years, maximum decided on potential participants’ health.
Project Support
Throughout your stay you will have the support and guidance of your local project coordinator and team. You will be provided with competent assistance and help with any questions or advice you may need during your stay. In addition you will have access to a 24 hour emergency contact number so you can contact one of our UK staff at any time should you need to.
