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Brilliant 4.76rating (234)
  • Life On Land

Domestic Animal Rescue & Rehabilitation

location
1 - 24 weeks  ·  Age 18 - 50+
Verified

Highlights

  • Embark on a memorable journey to stunning Cape Town, South Africa, and discover its captivating beauty
  • Indulge in the joy of caring for adorable cats and dogs, feeding them and sharing playful moments that warm your heart
  • Be part of a noble cause as we work together to rescue and rehabilitate animals in need, giving them a second chance at life

Highlights

  • Embark on a memorable journey to stunning Cape Town, South Africa, and discover its captivating beauty
  • Indulge in the joy of caring for adorable cats and dogs, feeding them and sharing playful moments that warm your heart
  • Be part of a noble cause as we work together to rescue and rehabilitate animals in need, giving them a second chance at life
  • Connect with like-minded volunteers from diverse backgrounds, forging friendships that span the globe and creating unforgettable memories
    • You don't have to pay anything yet

    Especially good for

    Age 18+
    Singles
    Couples
    Families
    Groups
    50+

    About the program

    Volunteer at a facility that rescues abandoned and abused domestic animals, and helps rehabilitate them in the hope of finding them a new loving home.

    This facility works towards the rescue and rehabilitation of animals in need, within a local community located 25mins outside Cape Town city centre. The residents of this community live in extreme poverty, well below the poverty line, and this has resulted in a huge problem with stray animals/pets ...

    About the program

    This facility works towards the rescue and rehabilitation of animals in need, within a local community located 25mins outside Cape Town city centre. The residents of this community live in extreme poverty, well below the poverty line, and this has resulted in a huge problem with stray animals/pets in the area! Due to the tough economic and social situation in this area, these animals are often neglected and left to fend for themselves, often resulting in starvation and/or sickness.

    The Project
    Because of this ever-growing problem in the area, this animal rescue center was established. The center is a pro-life (everything is done to cure the animals instead of putting them down), non-profit organization that rescues, cares for, and sterilizes stray dogs and cats, with the hope of eventually finding new loving homes for them. Due to financial constraints, the center is only able to employ a handful of staff - they are therefore heavily dependent on volunteer help and donations.

    Requirements
    The project requires Volunteers to have a Rabies and Tetanus vaccinations (valid Certificate) just to protect volunteers against possible infections when dealing with new dogs that have just come off the street,

    Dress Code
    All volunteers need to adhere to the dress code that is in place for local staff: 
    - Long pants: this helps avoid scratches from the dogs and/or wire fences, enclosures, etc.
    - Black, Navy Blue or White t-shirt (we also encourage volunteers to buy a branded t-shirt from the animal shelter, to wear at fundraising/awareness events and adoption days).
    - Closed shoes that you don't mind getting dirty (the fields can get muddy after light rain)
    This dress code ensures that volunteers look professional, and part of the local staff team.  

    Typical day

    Volunteers here typically start their day at 08:00 and will generally finish at the center around 15:00 (Monday - Friday). 

    They will contribute in a very hands-on way and duties include:

    • Feed and play with the animals
    • Assist with rehabilitation techniques (getting them used to loving/caring people ...

    Typical day

    Volunteers here typically start their day at 08:00 and will generally finish at the center around 15:00 (Monday - Friday). 

    They will contribute in a very hands-on way and duties include:

    • Feed and play with the animals
    • Assist with rehabilitation techniques (getting them used to loving/caring people again)
    • Cleaning animal houses and kennels
    • Walk the dogs that are close to full recovery
    • Work on fundraising initiatives and events 
    • Time spent with the adorable puppies is always a firm favorite with volunteers 

    Free-time activities

    Cape Town is one of Africa’s most popular tourist destinations for a reason. Its beaches, such as Camp’s Bay, are world renown, and Cape Town’s beachfront and downtown areas are lively at any time. During the day it is easy to find artisans selling their crafts or outdoor cafes to enjoy the ...

    Free-time activities

    Cape Town is one of Africa’s most popular tourist destinations for a reason. Its beaches, such as Camp’s Bay, are world renown, and Cape Town’s beachfront and downtown areas are lively at any time. During the day it is easy to find artisans selling their crafts or outdoor cafes to enjoy the Mediterranean climate. At night, there are many excellent bars, clubs and restaurants where locals and foreigners can relax and socialize.

    There are numerous cultural sites to visit, including the Bo-Kaap neighborhood and the Castle of Good Hope. They reflect Cape Town’s long history and help explain why the city is one of the most multicultural in the word. Robben Island, the infamous prison where political prisoners, including Nelson Mandela, were held during apartheid is a difficult but necessary stop. 

    For outdoor lovers, Cape Town has a wide mix of opportunities. Table Mountain is a breathtaking spot to visit, and there are many nearby hills, mountains and trails that make for great biking, climbing and hiking. Many, like Lion’s Head Mountain, also offer stunning views over the city and ocean below. Join in on tours down the Garden Route and a Game Drive to spot the Big 5!

    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 (basic level)

    Nationality Restrictions

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

    Other Skills

    - Must be an animal lover - Prepared to work hard (cleaning duties)

    Time Commitment

    Your helping hand will be required on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 08:00 - 15:00

    What's Included

    What's Included

    On-site Services

    Program fee includes: 

    • Placement in a suitable project and volunteer hostel/host family
    • Three meals during the week
    • Placement inventory information prior to arrival in South Africa 
    • Transfer from the airport to the STAY AFRICA house 
    • Transfer to STAY AFRICA office for Orientation 
    • Orientation program, including welcome session and Orientation Session 

    At additional cost: Access to email, internet and mail holding facility at the STAY AFRICA House; Transportation from the accommodation to the project site and back.

    Please note that once you have paid the balance of your program fee (typically 1 month prior to your arrival), cancellations will result in a 50% cancellation fee. No refunds will be issued for cancellation within 7 days of your arrival. No refunds will be issued for early departures - a credit voucher will be issued to you, and you can then return to complete your program at a future date.

    Airport Pickup at Cape Town International Airport

    One of our drivers will be at Cape Town International Airport, waiting to meet you on arrival. He will have your name on his board so please look out for him. Should you miss him for any reason, please make your way to the Airport Information Desk near the main exit and contact us - we will then connect you directly with the driver. 

    Accommodation

    Volunteers on this program will be accommodated in one of our host family homes, and generally share a room with other volunteers (a private room can be requested, at an additional cost). The family home is a typical South African middle-class home (approx. 3-4 bedrooms, kitchen, dining room/lounge, bath/toilet) and Wi-Fi is usually available at a small extra monthly cost. 

    Volunteers are welcome to use the volunteer house over weekends, or at any other time, be it post or pre program, its popular for the volunteers on this project to check into the volunteer house Friday afternoon, meet the other internationals , visit the city sights, do a tour or just hang out and then return to the host parents Sunday evening, most will share an UBER with a 15 min driving time, this service is at no extra charge.

    Food & Beverages

    3 meals per day are included as follows:

    1. Breakfast: Tea/Coffee, bread/toast, cereal, fruit
    2. Lunch: Packed sandwich to take to animal project
    3. Dinner: Home-cooked meal eaten with the family
    *weekend meal structure may differ according to the family weekend plans or outings with other volunteers

    Please Note: No meals provided over weekends at the volunteer house.

    Internet Access

    Limited access at the project site
    You don't have to pay anything yet

    Add-ons & Experiences
    3-Day Garden Route and Safari Tour

    Looking to explore the Garden Route on one epic three-day road trip? Then you’ve found your match! This fast-paced itinerary is filled to the brim ...

    $515 / once
    2-Day Wildlife and Safari Tour

    Go wild in the Western Cape on an overnight trip with safari from Cape Town! Travel off the beaten track to immerse yourself in the African bush. The ...

    $395 / once

    What's NOT included?

    What's NOT included?

    Flight Tickets

    The nearest airport is Cape Town International Airport (CPT) in Cape Town. We assist you to find cheap flights to South Africa. 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 South Africa provides security and is a plus to have. GET A QUOTE

    Vaccines

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

    Details on arrival

    The Volunteer South Africa Program begins on a Sunday and ends on a Saturday, so you may arrive on any Sunday, throughout the year - except for the time between Christmas and the first week of January.  

    We understand that flights may be expensive and you may not always be able to secure a flight to arrive on set arrival dates, we are therefore happy to accommodate last minute bookings even participants who are only able to arrive on a day where they are able to secure an affordable flight.

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

    Program Fees

    $196 per week 1 - 24 weeks Age 18 - 50+

    Payment methods

    Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

    NO CREDIT CARD FEES

    Duration

    1 - 24 weeks

    Deposit

    Reserve your spot with just a few clicks and a small, secure deposit. You can pay by credit card, PayPal, or other convenient methods.

    Final Payment

    You’ll agree on the final payment method with your local organization during the application process. This final payment is only due closer to the start of your trip.

    You don't have to pay anything yet
    4.8
    Top Pick
    One of the top picks on Volunteer World, according to travelers

    Location

    Africa > Southern Africa > South Africa > Cape Town

    Meet your project coordinator

    Kevin
    234
    reviews
    4.76
    Brilliant
    1972
    Founded

    Verified

      Very high response rate
    Spoken languages: English
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    You might also be interested in

    Volunteer Abroad  >  Animals  >  Street Animals in South Africa
    Contact Kevin
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    English

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    Travel dates

    1. - 1. Jan 1

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    Price details