Becoming a volunteer at a charity or shelter is one of the most rewarding things you can do.

But if you, like me, have a taste for volunteering with animals at projects overseas, it can be a daunting task to get started!

After taking numerous international volunteering trips in half a dozen countries around the world, I’d like to share the tips I use for planning a trip to help you get your journey off the ground:

A hand writes a checklist in a diary

The Preparation Checklist for Volunteers

There’s a lot to think about when planning a trip, so I use a checklist to keep me on track with bookings, visas, vaccinations and packing! I hope it can help you too. Read more.

A nurses pouch and stethoscope wrapped up in christmas paper surrounded by fairy lights

15 Gift Ideas for Travelling Vets and Nurses

Travellers are never the easiest people to buy for- so check out these gift ideas that are ethical, sustainable and won’t take up too much room in a backpack! Read more.

A traveller shuffles money in is hands beside a passport and a globe

Why should I pay to volunteer?

Isn’t it frustrating when you find a dream volunteer project, only to discover the fees are sky high? Let’s unpack why charities charge fees, and how you can make yourself more valuable to them than money. Read more

Girl facing a blue lagoon on a pier with her back to the camera headlining the post the key to finding the best volunteer project for you

Choosing the Best Fit Volunteer Opportunity for You

Just like choosing a job, there are different volunteering environments that suit each of us better. Find out how to choose the best project for you. Read More

A group of young volunteers sits on a balcony looking into the golden sunset over a jungle

How I find Ethical Animal Volunteer Opportunities

Find links to the most useful resources and websites to get started on your search for the ideal ethical volunteer opportunity with animals. Read more.

a cat relaxes in an empty street with colourful murals in colombia

6 Simple Ways to Support Animal Charities during LockDown

Even though we have to stay home, there are heaps of simple easy ways we can support animal shelters and charities during the Covid-19 lockdown. Read more.

a black kitten sleeps with her head at the bars of her pen

Veterinary Resources to get you through Lock Down

Stuck in Lockdown? Check out this extensive list of Veterinary Podcasts, Online Learning Resources and Comedy to keep you informed and entertained! Read More

Want to read no-nonsense overviews of the ethical charities that I have visited and recommend? Check out the Volunteer Organisation Profile Page.

How about hearing about the personal experiences of people who have already volunteered? Head over to the Volunteer Experience Page.

Do you have any questions or queries that you haven’t found the answer to here? Send me a message anytime, and I’ll do my best to help!