Wild & Exotic Animal Caretaker

location
3 - 12 weeks  ·  Age 18 - 50+

rating  Perfect 4.6  · 
  Verified by Volunteer World
  Excellent response rate

Highlights

  • Work with not only domestic animals but wild and exotic animals as well!
  • Experience Pasco County, Florida!
  • Meet like minded-people and form deep friendships!

Highlights

  • Work with not only domestic animals but wild and exotic animals as well!
  • Experience Pasco County, Florida!
  • Meet like minded-people and form deep friendships!
  • Work along side other international volunteers and local experienced staff!
  • Take part in numerous leisure activities on your days off!


  • Especially good for

    Age 18+
    Singles
    Couples
    50+

    About the program

    This program takes in injured, abused and abandoned large predators and other exotic wildlife and gives them a new home where they can live out the rest of their days!

    Interested in Volunteering? Come now and take part in this amazing volunteering opportunity at our Wildlife Survival Sanctuary located in Pasco County, Florida, which is about one-hour North of Tampa Florida towards the west coast of Florida!

    This is a unique opportunity offered at the sanctuary ...

    About the program

    Interested in Volunteering? Come now and take part in this amazing volunteering opportunity at our Wildlife Survival Sanctuary located in Pasco County, Florida, which is about one-hour North of Tampa Florida towards the west coast of Florida!

    This is a unique opportunity offered at the sanctuary allowing you to work with not only domestic animals but wild and exotic animals as well! All animals at the sanctuary originated from situations where the animals needed a new home because their owners could no longer care for them. When you participate in this project, your main goal is to support the care of these wild animals in captivity and the conservation of their wild counterparts! This is an all-volunteer animal sanctuary, there is no paid staff. Time, energy and donations garnered from volunteers both domestic and international allows the sanctuary to provide comfortable, large natural habitats to the animals to live out their lives peacefully. The work with the wildlife on the center is physically demanding and it is by no means an ‘easy holiday option’ therefore, volunteer for a minimum of 2 weeks and learn about the many issues that face these wild animals in captivity and get a better understanding about what it takes to care for them on a daily basis. Provide help, care and nurturing to these animal so that they me be able to fully live out their lives! 

    Volunteers will work along side other international volunteers and local experienced staff who will guide you during your stay. No special skill or equipment requirements necessary. 

    The Sanctuary is located in Pasco County, Florida, which is about one-hour North of Tampa Florida towards the west coast of Florida. Pasco County is one of the fastest growing counties in Florida. The sanctuary is located in a very rural area but there are already signs of development. The facility is very close to another larger city named Brooksville. Although rural, there are many stores, restaurants and densely populated areas nearby The sanctuary is also close to Crystal River, where you can experience natural springs and take diving trips, take part in underwater photography tours, ecology tours, and bird and wildlife identification. Crystal River is also home of the only growing herd of West Indian manatees. They congregate here because of the warm waters flowing to the surface from the Florida Aquifer in local springs. There are various opportunities in the area to go canoeing along some of the most beautiful rivers in Florida such as the Pithlachascotee River that runs through New Port Richey. Canoeing or kayaking Florida’s rivers allows for extensive native wildlife viewing, you will encounter alligators, an extensive variety of native wild birds, and other wildlife.

    During your time at the project you will be supervised by one of the sanctuary staff members. The work can be hard and strenuous at times but is very gratifying as you are making a difference in the lives of these animals. A sense of responsibility and a serious commitment to abide by our sanctuary safety rules is key in any activity because you will be too close to dangerous wild animals. The projects daily tasks and special projects will determine your schedule but you will also be allowed time for having fun and relaxing on or off property.

    Typical day

    This project is not a tourist program! It is a project that is in need of volunteers who want to actively participate in the activities of proper care and maintenance of our animals. The sanctuary staff tries to accommodate all volunteers that do not have transportation and will make every attempt ...

    Typical day

    This project is not a tourist program! It is a project that is in need of volunteers who want to actively participate in the activities of proper care and maintenance of our animals. The sanctuary staff tries to accommodate all volunteers that do not have transportation and will make every attempt to take volunteers on trips into town for shopping or other off-site activities. However, volunteers must be prepared to spend quiet evenings or afternoons (due to extreme heat) alone, but computer access and television is available in the rooms for that reason. SYou will actively participate in the daily routine of the sanctuary by participating in the following activities:
    • Clean animal habitats and their surrounding areas
    • To prepare and distribute the food for the animals;
    • Clean the food preparation areas before and after feeding;
    • Assist in animal enrichment activities;
    • Assist in operant conditioning;
    • Construction and maintenance of animal habitats;
    • To be a tour guide as part of our education program;
    • Assist in the general grounds maintenance of the sanctuary.
    • Helping with events
    For more information regarding your typical day please contact us.

    Free-time activities

    Volunteers can take part in numerous leisure activities on their days off. Although rural, there are many stores, restaurants and densely populated areas nearby. The Sanctuary is located in Pasco County, Florida, which is about one-hour North of Tampa Florida towards the west coast of Florida. The ...

    Free-time activities

    Volunteers can take part in numerous leisure activities on their days off. Although rural, there are many stores, restaurants and densely populated areas nearby. The Sanctuary is located in Pasco County, Florida, which is about one-hour North of Tampa Florida towards the west coast of Florida. The sanctuary is also close to Crystal River, where you can experience natural springs and take diving trips, take part in underwater photography tours, ecology tours, and bird and wildlife identification. Crystal River is also home of the only growing herd of West Indian manatees. They congregate here because of the warm waters flowing to the surface from the Florida Aquifer in local springs. There are various opportunities in the area to go canoeing along some of the most beautiful rivers in Florida such as the Pithlachascotee River that runs through New Port Richey. Canoeing or kayaking Florida’s rivers allows for extensive native wildlife viewing, you will encounter alligators, an extensive variety of native wild birds, and other wildlife.


    Requirements

    Requirements

    Minimum Age: 18 years

    In order to join the program you need to be at least 18 years old on the program start date. There might be exemptions if you can provide the permission of your legal guardian(s) or if your are accompanied by your parents.

    Language Skills

    You need to speak English (intermediate level)

    Required Documents

    CV, Resume, Letter of Motivation, Two pics and signed Policies and Liability Form (provided during application process)

    Nationality Restrictions

    No restrictions. Helping hands from all over the world are welcome.

    Time Commitment

    Your helping hand will be required on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 09:00 - 17:00

    What's Included

    What's Included

    Services by Fronteering Travel

    The fees include:

    • Accommodation: You will be living in a private or semi-private room in the main sanctuary residence. 
    • Meals: Food is provided at the sanctuary and included in the fee. 
    • Ongoing service and 24/7 Emergency contact

    Accommodation

    You live in a private or semi-private room in the main sanctuary residence. Depending on how many other volunteers are attending this project at one time, you may share your room with 1 other volunteer (same sex). Beds are single bunk beds (two levels). All rooms have keys and they can be locked. The sanctuary does have lockers available but we have not seen any need for using them. Hot shower and laundry facilities are at your disposal. Facilities to relax after working hours are available. Each room is equipped with a satellite connection and color television, DVD player, and desk top computer with high speed internet access available for personal use, which you are welcome to use any time you like and is free. 

    Food & Beverages

    Meals will be provided at the sanctuary. Full kitchen privileges are available for your use, special arrangements such as vegan or vegetarian food can be made. The food offered is not vegetarian unless you specify your special dietary needs before you arrive, this includes special dietary needs for medical conditions.

    Internet Access

    Good access at the project site

    What's NOT included?

    What's NOT included?

    Airport Pickup at Tampa International Airport

    An airport pickup isn't included within the program fees either.

    Flight Tickets

    The nearest airport is Tampa International Airport (TPA) in Tampa. We assist you to find cheap flights to United States. FIND CHEAP FLIGHTS

    Travel Insurance

    Going abroad is an adventure and it is always best to be prepared. Sudden illness or injury, cancellation or theft - a travel insurance for United States provides security and is a plus to have. GET A QUOTE

    Vaccines

    If you are intending to volunteer in United States you should seek medical advice before starting your social journey. Check your required vaccinations for United States. VACCINE CHECKER

    Details on arrival

    There are no specific start/arrival dates for this project, however, we recommend that you arrive on a Monday.

    Availability
    Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

    Program fees

    3 weeks (min. stay) 1,591€
    4 weeks 1,791€
    6 weeks 1,990€
    8 weeks 2,389€
    12 weeks (max. stay) 3,087€
    Average fees 393€/week

    Program fees

    393€ per week 3 - 12 weeks Age 18 - 50+

    Payment methods

    Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

    NO CREDIT CARD FEES


    Duration

    3 - 12 weeks

    Deposit

    The deposit is simply to reserve your volunteer placement. Payments are handled by PayPal, our trusted global payment provider. If you don't have a PayPal account, you can also pay using a credit card.


    Final Payment

    Your final payment will be agreed with Fronteering Travel during the application process. Common solutions are either via bank transfer or a cash payment at the project site.


    Meet your organization

    Fronteering Travel

    Perfect 4.6 rating (87 reviews)

    Non-profit - founded in 2010

    Verified by Volunteer World

      Excellent response rate

    Coordinated by

    Patrick

    Spoken languages: Dutch, English, German

    About the project

    Fronteering arranges volunteering programs related to wildlife and indigenous people in less visited places of this world as well as more unique destinations.

    Meet your organization

    Fronteering arranges volunteering programs in some of the last frontiers of this world as well as more unique locations that other organizations ignore. From Field research programs in the Far north of Canada and Husky ranches in the Canadian Arctic to Amerindian community programs and wildlife conservation in the Amazon Rainforest and everything in between.

    Most of our programs Focus on either wildlife rehabilitation and release, wildlife conservation & research or involve local indigenous communities.

    Fronteering currently offers programs in Canada, Guyana, USA, Australia, Brazil, Borneo, South Africa, Madagascar and Panama.

    True good causes: FRONTEERINGS volunteer abroad projects are either existing local projects or projects that are build from the group up by FRONTEERING. What these projects have in common is that you will be supporting a true good cause! You will have the opportunity to help where the need is the greatest. Our projects focus on helping the local communities, wildlife, indigenous people and the environment in cooperation with the local/indigenous communities. We focus on true volunteer projects where your effort really makes a difference. That’s why through Fronteering you will rehabilitate injured & orphaned wildlife with the goal to release the animal. That is the reason why will not send you to some far southern country to cuddle with tame lions & tigers with any real purpose. If you want to volunteer abroad with a real purpose, contact us!

    Safety: At FRONTEERING we do our outmost best to provide the safety measures needed for our Volunteer Abroad projects and Adventure Travel Trips. However due to the fact that many of our projects and trips involve wild animals and/or are in remote locations there is a small element of risk involved. Not all of our projects and trips are for the faint at heart however we do cater to those of all walks of life. If you are not too sure about the suitability of a Volunteer Abroad project or an Adventure Travel trip then feel free to ask as we are always ready to answer any questions or discuss any doubts that come to mind. For more information please check our Safety & In-country Support section before you volunteer abroad.

    A real adventure: We do not want our volunteers to end up trying to safe or clean up some small patch of rainforest which in some places they might call a wilderness. Instead you will volunteer in the immense jungle of the Amazon rainforest or venture in to the vast Canadian wilderness! Our volunteer abroad projects are situated in the remote areas of the world and we focus on countries and regions with the lowest population densities. We at FRONTEERING focus on what works; from sleeping in the jungle underneath the stars with nothing more than your own private hammock to back-to-basic cabins in the northern tundra with a cozy smothering fireplace and no electricity! When you volunteer abroad with FRONTEERING you can be sure it will be adventure.

    Off the beaten path: With FRONTEERING volunteer abroad projects you will venture to places less visited. We focus on places that are fairly undiscovered where the nature, wildlife and indigenous cultures are still common. You will have the great opportunity to see these amazing places while they are still unspoiled and pure. It is these places where there is the most to lose but even more to gain through successful conservation work and sustainable tourism. 

    Community involvement: Foremost when volunteering abroad the well being of the community should come first. For all of our trips we use local guides, local transportation and local communities so that through sustainable tourism we can help to protect the environment, wildlife and sustain the way of life of indigenous cultures & communities. More and more and governments choose the long term benefit of sustainable tourism over the short term gain of mining and logging. A good example is Gabon which in 2002 after recommendations from environmental researchers set up 13 new national parks. The government of Guyana is currently considering protecting its entire rainforest region which still covers 80% of the country. Hopefully through our combined effort this dream will one day become true.

    Mission
    FRONTEERING specializes in organizing volunteer abroad projects to preserve the environment, wildlife and indigenous people throughout the world while giving the volunteers a real and raw experience in some of the most beautiful and often remote places in the world to make a true difference.

    Vision
    FRONTEERING strives to provide real off the beaten path volunteer abroad experiences worldwide that satisfy the need for volunteer projects that truly makes a difference for the environment, wildlife and indigenous people.


    87 reviews · rating4.6

    I always knew I wanted to do volunteering work with animals one day. After my studies I finally had time to do so and spend some time at an animal sanctuary. While I was looking for the perfect project on the Internet, I came across the Fronteering website. On it I found a project in Florida which ...
    Having found an awesome opportunity to partake in a husky care taker placement in Canada, I was assisted in organizing the placement by the helpful and (patient!) team at Fronteering. The organization was dedicated to helping me contact and communicate with my host organization. I always felt I ...
    Carol Breen rating5

    2024 at Raptors & Owls Caretaker

    I spent 8 weeks, 5 days a week, 7 hours a day volunteering with this organization. It was so worthwhile! They not only rescue injured raptor, but they rehabilitate as many as possible and get them back to where they were rescued in order to release them in the same place. They have a network of ...
    泽宇 张 rating5

    2024 at Wild Takhi Research & Conservation

    The national park is spectacular! We went for an outing every morning for wild Takhi observation every morning. Having a moment in your lifetime in the wild with all the nature surrounding you is probably the most wonderful experience. The accommodation managers and staffs are super helpful and ...
    Chris H rating5

    2024 at Critter Caretaker

    I volunteered at the critter care taker program in Canada in May just 1 month after I turned 18. I was quite nervous and my parents also and so I decided to book through Fronteering instead of trying to arrange it myself. This made it very easy and I felt a lot better. I did travel to Vancouver a ...
    Nadia Riad rating5

    2024 at Scottish Husky Ranch Caretaker

    I volunteered here earlier this year and I had a great time. Unfortunately I could not go in winter due to some other obligations I had so I knew I was going to miss out on the dogsledding season. Luckily because it was still quite cold in April and May we were still able to do some dry training and ...

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