How to Volunteer with Animals: A Beginner’s Guide

Animal Volunteering for Beginners

Helping endangered species in Africa? Supporting a dog shelter in South America? Assisting with elephant conservation in Southeast Asia? Such an opportunity enables you to make a real difference while exploring the world. But if you haven’t done it before, you’re probably wondering how to volunteer with animals abroad.

The idea of working with our planet’s vulnerable creatures can be exciting. At the same time, it can seem daunting. You have to consider which program to join, what skills are needed, and how to make the most of your experience. Fortunately, we’re here to share useful insights. This guide breaks down the steps to first time volunteering with animals, helping you make a meaningful impact.

Wildlife lover? Turn passion into action abroad!

What to consider before you volunteer with animals abroad

Before diving into your role, it’s important to take a step back and evaluate what you want to achieve. While the work you do can be incredibly rewarding, it’s not always easy, and your responsibilities can be physically demanding and emotionally challenging. Understanding these aspects will help ensure you’re fully prepared and you choose a program that aligns with your goals.

Understand your motivation

Ask yourself why you’re interested in animal volunteering abroad. Is it because you want to make a positive impact on this field? Or are you passionate about wildlife conservation? Some programs focus on rescue and rehabilitation, while others revolve around preservation and awareness campaigns. Understanding your motivation will help you identify a program that suits your interests and values.

Assess time commitment

Voluntary work with animals can range from a few weeks to several months or even longer. Before applying, consider how much time you can dedicate. Short-term stints are great if you have limited time abroad, while long-term opportunities may offer more in-depth experiences and allow you to build stronger relationships with the animals and the local community. Each option has its pros and cons, so determining your availability is key to finding the right fit.

Prepare physically and emotionally

Strong heart, strong arms—animal care demands both!

Working with animals, especially in challenging environments, can require both physical stamina and emotional resilience. Consider whether you’re comfortable carrying out tasks in demanding conditions, whether that’s cleaning enclosures in the heat or dealing with the emotional strain of caring for injured animals. Comprehending the emotional impact of animal volunteer work allows you to deal better with it. In turn, you get to have a more positive experience.

Your first steps to animal volunteering abroad

Knowing how to volunteer with animals, especially when it’s your first time, typically begins with a structured approach. But, it doesn’t have to be overly complex. Use these steps to plan your adventure abroad.

Step 1: Research programs and destinations

Before committing to a specific program, take the time to research different opportunities. Start by identifying destinations that align with your interests—whether it’s working with wildlife in Africa, helping stray animals in Asia, or contributing to sea turtle conservation in South America. Make sure to look into the species you'll be working with, the program length, and the specific responsibilities. Just as important are positive reviews, transparency of costs, and support services during your placement.

Step 2: Choose a reputable organization

Not all programs are created equal! Choose one that puts paws (and planet) first.

Reputation and a proven track record of ethical and impactful programs are crucial when selecting from hundreds of organizations and providers. Their mission must clearly state the work they do to promote animal welfare. They should also be accredited or recognized by an authoritative body, as well as feature reviews from previous volunteers. Plus, they should provide proper training and clear guidelines on handling or dealing with animals, and the assurance of sustainable benefits.

Check out these top 5 animal volunteer programs

Step 3: Prepare financially and logistically

As with most programs, you need to pay to volunteer with animals abroad. Providers charge fees to cover accommodation, meals, and project costs. These fees often vary depending on the destination and length of stay. You also need to set a budget for travel logistics and any additional expenses while in another country.

This talk about finances might be giving you second thoughts. Don’t worry though. You can explore scholarship opportunities and fundraising ideas, or ask the organization if they offer any financial assistance.

Step 4: Get vaccinated and prepare for health and safety

Shots, snacks, and survival kits—get ready to volunteer like a pro!

When it’s your first time volunteering with animals, you might not be aware of the possible health risks. These range from zoonotic diseases, such as rabies, or physical injury from a scratch. Oh, and compassion fatigue is also a thing, especially among participants exposed repeatedly to the suffering of animals.

Make sure you’re up to date on necessary vaccinations. Start by researching the required shots in your host country or asking your healthcare provider. Stock up on essential health supplies as well. Don’t forget to get travel insurance, especially one that includes coverage for medical emergencies and evacuation, to ensure your health and safety during your trip. You should also be mentally prepared for possible high-stress situations.

Step 5: Embrace cultural sensitivity and flexibility

Animal volunteer work overseas often involves working closely with local communities. It's important to approach the experience with cultural sensitivity, recognizing that norms and practices may be different from your own. Embrace the local culture, remain open-minded, and adapt to the way things are done in your new environment. Flexibility and a positive attitude will go a long way in making your whole experience enjoyable and purpose-filled.

Ready to start your search? Narrowing down your options doesn’t have to be super lengthy.

Receive curated program matches through our FREE Online Advisor.

Alumni Highlights: Hear it from first-time animal volunteers

From nervous newbie to wildlife warrior—see how these volunteers found their roar!

Animal volunteering for beginners is both thrilling and challenging, and the next generation of first-time participants can benefit greatly from their experiences. Check out these real-life stories from program alumni who found their first voluntary work with animals abroad truly impactful.

My first experience of being a volunteer

Volunteer Abroad in South Africa with African Impact

Fiona – “For me, this experience was something I've thought a lot about but never felt I had the confidence to do… This past week has been a life changing experience. I have learned so much about African lifestyle as well as things about myself. I found so much of this trip so heart warming it will stay with me for the rest of my life… I now look forward to telling my stories to anyone who will listen when i return home and back to work. Thank you soo much to all the team.”

Every action was based on research and compassion...

Volunteer at a Rhino Orphanage in South Africa with African Conservation Experience

Sophie Cuevas – ”The first time I saw a baby rhino… It was a moment I’ll never forget - because in that instant, I knew I was part of a team working tirelessly to give her a future. What struck me most was the level of care and precision that goes into every detail to help these little rhinos survive, and I contributed to that… This trip meant everything to me. It didn’t just teach me about rhinos; it taught me about myself, about what really matters… I’ve realised there’s so much more to life - and that each of us really can make a difference.”

Absolute class adventure

Eco-Volunteering Research with IPBio

Kieran Boyd – “My name is Kieran and I study zoology at the University of the West of Scotland… Living and working in the Atlantic rainforest was incredible and the most insane adventure for my first time abroad… the work experience also opened new doors for me in terms of zoology at university. I now have better experience with working on the field and working with likeminded individuals. I would definitely return to the rainforest again and stay a lot longer than just 3 weeks, really can’t beat it.”

Sign up for on MyGoAbroad and easily compare animal welfare volunteer programs.

Make a paw-sitive impact volunteering with animals!

Leaving footprints (not paw prints!) on the world—one volunteer at a time.

You don’t just book a program or straight up contact an NGO if you want to volunteer overseas with animals. As a beginner, you need a streamlined approach, from understanding your motivations to choosing a trusted provider. This way, you can ensure a smooth journey and a truly meaningful experience. Plus, you can make a real difference in both the lives of animals and people from local communities.

With the steps above and careful planning, your first volunteer work with furry friends can offer personal growth and life-changing experiences. You’ll gain deeper insights into related environmental and conservation issues. By the end of your program, you'll not only have a lasting impact but will also come away with a greater sense of connection to the world around you.

Now that you know how to volunteer with animals abroad, you can start looking into all your options.