Wild & Exotic Animal Caretaker

This is a unique opportunity offered at the sanctuary allowing you to work with not only domestic animals but wild and exotic animals as well! All animals at the sanctuary originated from situations where the animals needed a new home because their owners could no longer care for them. When you participate in this project, your main goal is to support the care of these wild animals in captivity and the conservation of their wild counterparts! This is an all-volunteer animal sanctuary, there is no paid staff. Time, energy and donations garnered from volunteers both domestic and international allows the sanctuary to provide comfortable, large natural habitats to the animals to live out their lives peacefully. The work with the wildlife on the center is physically demanding and it is by no means an ‘easy holiday option’ therefore, volunteer for a minimum of 2 weeks and learn about the many issues that face these wild animals in captivity and get a better understanding about what it takes to care for them on a daily basis. Provide help, care and nurturing to these animal so that they me be able to fully live out their lives! 

Volunteers will work along side other international volunteers and local experienced staff who will guide you during your stay. No special skill or equipment requirements necessary. 

The Sanctuary is located in Pasco County, Florida, which is about one-hour North of Tampa Florida towards the west coast of Florida. Pasco County is one of the fastest growing counties in Florida. The sanctuary is located in a very rural area but there are already signs of development. The facility is very close to another larger city named Brooksville. Although rural, there are many stores, restaurants and densely populated areas nearby The sanctuary is also close to Crystal River, where you can experience natural springs and take diving trips, take part in underwater photography tours, ecology tours, and bird and wildlife identification. Crystal River is also home of the only growing herd of West Indian manatees. They congregate here because of the warm waters flowing to the surface from the Florida Aquifer in local springs. There are various opportunities in the area to go canoeing along some of the most beautiful rivers in Florida such as the Pithlachascotee River that runs through New Port Richey. Canoeing or kayaking Florida’s rivers allows for extensive native wildlife viewing, you will encounter alligators, an extensive variety of native wild birds, and other wildlife.

During your time at the project you will be supervised by one of the sanctuary staff members. The work can be hard and strenuous at times but is very gratifying as you are making a difference in the lives of these animals. A sense of responsibility and a serious commitment to abide by our sanctuary safety rules is key in any activity because you will be too close to dangerous wild animals. The projects daily tasks and special projects will determine your schedule but you will also be allowed time for having fun and relaxing on or off property.