Animal Welfare Volunteering in Malawi

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Embark on an immersive wildlife veterinary internship in Malawi, offering a unique opportunity to acquire invaluable practical experience at a renowned wildlife rescue and rehabilitation center. Collaborate closely with a dedicated team of seasoned veterinarians, playing an important role in the treatment of a diverse range of animals, from cats and baboons to porcupines and other species brought to the center. Situated in Lilongwe, this established wildlife conservation nonprofit is committed to safeguarding local wildlife. Their initiatives include the rescue of injured animals, preservation of natural habitats, provision of sanctuary, and impactful conservation education programs. As a veterinary intern, you’ll be tasked with conducting exams, health checks, and routine diagnostics, contributing to the overall well-being of the animals. While emergency surgeries are not a daily occurrence, there may be opportunities for you to assist when needed. You’ll engage in various aspects of animal care and enrichment activities, fostering a holistic understanding of wildlife welfare. Furthermore, a potential opportunity for hands-on fieldwork alongside the local veterinary team.

Looking to apply your talent and expertise to a good cause? Find a program that matches your interests and skills through Volunteer World! We are the largest volunteer abroad comparison platform around the globe, enabling you to seek and compare offers from major travel agencies as well as smaller grassroots NGOs and local specialists in more than 80 countries. All these with just one click! Find projects in wildlife, teaching, community development, and several other areas. Simply choose your desired destination and desired travel date, and our search engine will compare the best volunteer abroad programs on your behalf. Whether you wish to gain experience at a wildlife sanctuary in South Africa or teach English at a monastery in Nepal, we've got you covered. Volunteer World guarantees a quick and easy application. We will guide you through this process, as well as help plan your next meaningful trip. We provide free access to quality-checked projects and flexible options. And if anything goes wrong, we've got your back with our qualified support team and our refund guarantee.

Join us in Malawi, where you'll support our industry-leading wildlife rescue and rehabilitation work. Whenever possible, we release animals back into the wild where they belong (which means we operate a strict hands-off policy where possible). You’ll have a chance to help care for over 200 animals on-site, (currently) including rescued monkeys, baboons, several kittens, owls, duikers, and more. Activities include behavioral observations, preparing enrichment activities, troop integrations, preparing feeds, cleaning enclosures, and performing animal husbandry tasks. As Malawi's leading conservation organization, our work spans wildlife rescue and welfare, education, advocacy, justice, and research. The Lilongwe Wildlife Centre is regarded as one of the top sanctuaries in Africa, holding accreditations from the world's most respected animal welfare bodies, including GFAS, PASA, and Born Free. In October 2023, Lilongwe Wildlife Centre won the GFAS 2023 Outstanding International Sanctuary Award.

In the breathtaking landscape of Liwonde, you focus on monitoring endangered species. Observe iconic animals such as lions, cheetahs, hyenas, and vultures. Collect valuable data that feed directly into local conservation strategies. The project includes monitoring and research work that helps fill critical knowledge gaps and support national and regional conservation efforts. Experience unique moments as you learn more about the social dynamics of groups and individual wildlife. These include impressive events such as the takeover of a lion pride by a new male, the training of an adolescent cheetah in hunting, or the fascinating interaction between vultures and other scavengers at a carcass. Even if the project team does not track elephants or rhinos, you are likely to see them during drives through the park. Immerse yourself in this unique opportunity to actively shape the future of Malawi's wildlife and learn about the wilderness!