A day in the life of a Volunteer

As a Volunteer working at ACE the day usually starts at 8am.  We have approximately 15 cats at any given time, which need feeding, and their enclosure cleaning out.  Most of the big cats and the resident cats, remain free at night.  However, the smaller cats, kittens, and new cats stay in the enclosure at nights where they have beds and boxes to play in.

We have 2 dogs, which are with us permanently, but we also have boarding dogs and sick dogs, the numbers can change on a daily basis.

Playing with the cats, walking the dogs, and feeding the tortoises are all part of the daily tasks, as is cleaning up after them.  We have tourists, individuals, couples and groups who we show around and tell them about ACE, how it started, and what we do here.

Most volunteers offer to work on a daily basis, and choose the days that are beneficial to us both.  Others like to come in on afternoons, maybe just to walk the dogs.   During quiet moments we cut up bandages for swabs, and sew webbing to make halters for the donkeys and horses.

After showing tourists around they can spend some time in our reception area, where we have drinks, t-shirts, and information about ACE.

Good public relation skills can help people donating to us and buying our merchandise.   We appreciate help from volunteers on a part time or full time basis.   All that is required is a gentle nature, a love of animals, a kind word, and common sense!
 

Some guidance for potential volunteers

Healthcare here is very expensive for tourists, so please ensure that you have relevant travel insurance to cover you, and sufficient funds to pay the hospital while you wait for the insurance money.  Check with your GP which vaccinations they currently recommend and whether you are up to date.

Please respect the Muslim culture by wearing 3/4 length to full length trousers, and keep shoulders and your stomach covered.  Avoid tight fitting, or revealing clothing.   We will provide volunteers with two ACE t-shirts to wear.  In the winter it is cool in the mornings so bring a light jacket or jumper.  In the summer temperatures can reach over 45 degrees centigrade, which a lot of people find hard to tolerate, so a lot of thought should be given if you are planning to come between June and August, though many find that just by staying in the shade it is bearable.

You do not need to arrange a visa in the UK, but make sure that you have at least 6 months left valid on your passport from your leaving date.  You need to purchase a tourist visa at the airport on arrival; there are banks there that accept most currencies. 

Click here for more answers to frequently asked questions.