Volunteer to Save Dogs in Peru

Dogs are man’s best friend, at least in most places in the world. In others, some humans don’t seem to understand the nuances of caring for a pet. They are not viewed as members of the family and often go uncared for. As a result, there are a lot of dogs in shelters that need some extra TLC.

If you’re a dog lover and want to travel the world, you can Volunteer with Animals. Here’s how you can help save dogs (and other animals) in Peru.

Your Job at a Shelter

Despite the difference in views surrounding our canine companions, the tasks you will complete as a shelter volunteer are the same as you would in a first world country. Daily feeding protocols and giving medicine if required are the main aspects of keeping the dogs alive and well. Cleaning their pens and grooming them (brushing, bathing, etc) are another component. Snuggling and loving the animals is the most enjoyable part of your job.

Depending on when you visit, you could be helping with up to 100 animals at a time! You may also be required to help with fundraising events or help out with other animal projects, handling reptiles or caring for endangered species.

Requirements

First and foremost, you have to love animals to do this job. You can’t be afraid of getting dirty and working hard. Most programs accept applicants over 17 years old, with good physical health and a strong work ethic. A minimum time cap may apply. Shifts are usually short or split into morning and afternoon sets for a few days a week. This means that you have lots of time to explore during your downtime.

For most placements, you don’t need to speak Spanish. However, knowing some key phrases can be extremely beneficial. You may even pick up some Spanish while you’re there!

About Peru

It’s no surprise that Peru has become a bucket list destination for tourists and travelers alike. Home to Machu Picchu, one of the Seven Wonders of the New World, almost four million people flock to Peru to take in the sights. With lush Amazonian rainforests, the Andes mountains, towering dunes, and gorgeous beaches, who can blame them?

Cusco, where you will likely stay during your time as a volunteer, is an old city full of life and culture. With structures dating back to medieval times, the city has plenty to see and do during your down time. It’s proximity to the Inca Trail, Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu make it the prime place to stay during your travels.

Know Before You Go

While Peru is an incredible country full of amazing people, there is some political unrest and safety concerns in some areas. Don’t attempt to travel around the country by yourself. Always use a reputable travel organization for transport. Never hail a cab from the streets. Instead, have your concierge or volunteer coordinator call one for you. When in a cab, keep your bags in the trunk or down by your feet, as robbers will not hesitate to bust out a window and take your belongings. Cusco is one of the safer urban areas in the country.

Altitude sickness is a problem that affects a lot of travelers when they first make their way into the mountainous regions of the country. As Cusco is in the Andes, you may need to take altitude sickness medication and give yourself time to acclimatize before doing any strenuous work. Coca tea is a natural remedy used by the locals in the area to help offset the effects of altitude sickness.

Volunteering to save animals in Peru will give you the gift of traveling to an exotic location while you give back to the world. What could be better than hugging dogs and seeing the world?