Project Summary

Volunteer  and get first hand experience of animal management at a pre-vet wildlife rescue and rehabilitation placement in Zimbabwe. Based at one of Africa’s oldest wildlife sanctuaries it is great way to support your studies or work with orphaned, sick and misplaced animals. The centre was set up in 1973 now has 25 full time staff.  Species include leopards, lions, buffalo to monkeys, antelopes and a range of exotic birds and wherever possible  they are cared for and returned to their natural habitat.   The animals weight, teeth and size are recorded to monitor the overall well-being of animals in the area.  

The sanctuary focuses on 4 main areas; carnivores, primates, birds and an animal nursery.  Much of the treatment of the animals is taken care of by the experienced and government authorised local expert and, where needed, a local vet is called upon for major surgery and other more delicate interventions.

Animals that cannot be rereleased play a role in educational activities, zoological studies and in the case of endangered species, are introduced to breeding programmes.  The extensive education programme has worked with 168 local schools to prevent animals from being killed and habitats destroyed.  Volunteer on this wildlife rescue and rehabilitation placement and get an up close view of the realities and hard work that goes into protecting wild animals in their natural habitat.

Why choose this project?

This is a great opportunity to compliment your studies in veterinary science, animal welfare or zoology or just help you to prepare for your career working with animals. Trained veterinarians are more than welcome.  You will get direct experience of wildlife management and animal welfare for a range of species through providing care, safe habitats and participating in interventions.  Volunteers may also gather and sort research data if there is a need at the time of your placement, important aspects of veterinary work on a game reserve.  Prepare yourself for the adventure of a lifetime and  the privilege of working up close with a range of wild animals whilst developing your own skills and experience, an asset to any CV/Resume.

Role of the volunteer

Volunteer on this project and develop your theoretical and practical skills by gaining an insight into all aspects of the sanctuary, from feeding, cleaning and carrying out maintenance to enclosures, to assisting in providing care for injured, sick or orphaned animals.  The sanctuary director has authority for tranquillising and moving animals around the reserve with his experienced local team, and they are also responsible for the treatment of wounds and general animal welfare. Where surgery or more technical assistance is needed, a local vet is called upon.  Volunteers should be able to observe a number of animal initiatives and treatments and occasionally even surgery if it is warranted during the volunteering placement period (this cannot be guaranteed!).  

Work on the reserve is varied from contraception interventions, predator monitoring to the relocation of animals.  You will gain an insight into different equipment and techniques essential for the welfare of the animals as you work across the 4 sanctuary areas.  You will learn about safe capture methods, release techniques, as well as important information about the care and rehabilitation of a range of species. As a volunteer you will experience how educating the local community is an important aspect of the work to protect and preserve local wildlife and its habitats.

Skills Required

This placement is highly recommended for volunteers who are interested or already studying animal sciences and for those who are qualified veterinarians.  Volunteers will need to be of good health, have a decent level of fitness and a love of animals. Working with animals is dirty work and volunteers must be prepared to get involved with a wide range of work, as the needs of the centre change daily depending on the animals present, and their needs.

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