Animal Care and Farm Maintenance Intern or Volunteer in Samaná, Dominican Republic

Overview: Animal Care and Farm Maintenance Intern or Volunteer in Samaná, Dominican Republic

In the Dominican Republic there are plenty of animals in need of care and a home. Many dogs are homeless and sick, you often find neglected and malnourished horses and cats are often treated badly – just to give some examples. It is rare that anyone cares about these animals or gives them the affection and nurture that they need.

For many years, a farm close to the city Samaná has already been helping animals in need by providing a home, food and arranging medical treatments. Dogs, horses, mules, cows and many other animals live on the ranch in the middle of the beautiful nature that surrounds Samaná. There is always a lot to do and support is much needed to be able to continue providing care to the animals and finding new homes, especially for the almost 50 dogs living on the farm. 

Description: Animal Care and Farm Maintenance Intern or Volunteer in Samaná, Dominican Republic

You can become a part of this project by taking care of the animals, training them and maintaining the property. By raising awareness and educating children about how animals can increase our well-being if we take care of them you can also contribute to improving the situation in the long run. 

Activities can include but are not limited to:

• Caring for dogs, dogs and mules and training them
• Maintaining meadow, stables and kennels
• Maintaining the farm by helping with painting, building fences, planting king grass, fixing doors, among other tasks
• Supporting veterinarians during medical treatments or operations to neuter or spay animals
• Developing and executing awareness rising and education activities for children or the general population in order to improve the situation of neglected animals in the long run

Requirements

Overall there are no previous experiences required to participate in the program, but of course you have to be an animal lover. A typical Animal Care & Farm Maintenance volunteer and intern has already worked in animal shelters, is a student in a veterinary school or a dog walker, etc. However, a person that does not necessarily have any experience or training, but just really loves animals and wants to help care for them is welcome as well. He or she needs to be enthusiastic, proactive, ready for a challenge and willing to do maintenance work. It is important to keep in mind that the farm work does not only consist of petting dogs but also includes physical work like cleaning kennels and stables and being outside a lot. Nevertheless, the animal’s love and affection that you will be met with are worth all of the effort! Friendliness, commitment and patience are among significant qualities.

In this program, we also encourage you to come with a friend and volunteer together because sharing the work at the farm will be even more fun.