Over the last 50 years, the world has experienced an average of 69% decrease in wildlife populations. Human beings  can be the change these helpless animals need. Volunteering in animal welfare can impact efforts to help animals thrive again. This article explores volunteer opportunities for animal lovers and digs deeper into the importance of volunteering for animal welfare.

The importance of volunteering for animal welfare & conservation

First, what is animal welfare? Animal welfare refers to the living conditions of animals under human control or kept in captivity by humans. Many animal welfare regulations aim to ensure that animals have a satisfactory standard of living and are treated well. Animal welfare regulations are often applied to farms, pet stores, laboratories, entertainment facilities, and other places where animals are in captivity. Animal conservation involves protecting ecosystems and environments to make them healthy for animals that live in those environments.

Animal welfare and conservation are important topics that require efforts from everyone—not just those in an animal-focused profession. Animal lovers can volunteer and make a positive difference in the lives of animals in need. Community effort helps the animals, ecosystems, and you, the volunteers. Volunteering is good for you too! Many volunteers experience positive impact on their mental, emotional and physical health.

Animal volunteer work opportunities

Local animal volunteer opportunities

Local animal shelters and rescue organizations always need help from volunteers. Shelters often house domesticated animals from dogs and cats to birds and rabbits among many other domestic pets. Animal rescue volunteers help save animals from illegal activity, abandonment, neglect, and more. Many of these organizations are non-profits and can use help from hands-on animal care to administrative tasks.

Wildlife conservation opportunities

Wildlife conservation efforts include the ecosystems where animals live in the wild. Volunteer opportunities in a conservation project are available through local nature preserves or organizations like Discover Africa Safaris. By getting involved in conservation efforts, you will help shield endangered species from further decline and fortify ecosystems to promote a balanced and thriving environment.

Animal rehabilitation centers

Animal rehabilitation centers help injured, distressed, or orphaned animals. A rehabilitation center provides a safe place and professional staff to help rehabilitate animals for eventual release into their natural habitats. Volunteers can fill many needs at these centers, from local promotions to hands-on help at the facilities.

Fundraising

Engaging in or helping with charity events to support animal welfare and conservation significantly impacts the overall effort to help animals. Organizations need financial support to survive and continue to help animals. Fundraising financially supports the cause and raises awareness.

Discover Africa Safaris aims to be a voice for the voiceless, focusing on ethical tourism and bridging the gap between people, the planet, and wildlife. Volunteering is one way to be a strong pillar of support for animal welfare and conservation. You are invited to visit for a safari tour where you can immerse yourself in tangible efforts for conservation while surrounded by gorgeous landscapes and wildlife in need. Contact them today to discuss your next meaningful adventure.