There are many opportunities in Thailand to volunteer at dog shelters all over the country, so clearly there is both a demand for volunteers and also a demand for places to volunteer. It’s very easy to see how the shelters benefit from having volunteers come to Thailand and help them. But why would someone want to volunteer ?
Top Reasons to volunteer at a dog shelter in Thailand
- Personal Fulfillment : Helping abandoned and stray dogs in Thailand can be deeply rewarding for animal lovers, just the act of caring for these dogs is enough.
- Skill Development : Volunteering at a dog shelter can help you develop new skills or enhance existing skills such as, animal care, veterinary assistance, teamwork, communication, dog training, and problem solving.
- A window into a new possible career : many people like the ‘idea’ of working with animals, but also realise their idea may not match reality. Volunteering at Second Chance Shelter can give you a chance to see what is really involved, and if you genuinely like it.
- Cultural Immersion : You are in Thailand. Working in a Thai dog shelter allows you to immerse yourself in the local culture, work with Thai people and learn about Thai customs, and possibly pick up some of the Thai language.
- Emotional Well Being : Spending time with animals has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety, improving mental health and emotional well-being. The act of giving also helps, so its a two for one deal, and the weather is good so really its a 3 for 1 deal.
- Networking : Volunteering provides great opportunities to meet like minded people, create new friendships, and connect with professionals in the field of animal welfare. Lots of volunteers leave the shelter and travel onwards together, or they share stories of where they have travelled to and decide to visit these places themselves.
- Resume or CV Boosting : Whether you are applying for a place at university or a new job, volunteer experience is looked favourably upon. It makes the applicant stand out from others, as a former university lecturer who interviewed many prospective students, most answers are coached and generic nowadays, so when someone has something of interest to talk about, they stand out.
- Travel Opportunity : Volunteering in Thailand allows you to explore a beautiful country, experience its unique wildlife, landscapes and tourist activities during your free time. You can’t get bored in Thailand , there’s so much to do local to Second Chance we have a dedicated page showing trips and excursions.
- Community Impact : When gap year projects were beginning, one of the expectations was that it would help the local community in some way, leave the place better than when you arrived so to speak. As a volunteer here you help to manage stray dog populations and promote responsible pet ownership, as well as helping the shelter and their dogs directly.
- Personal Growth : Volunteering abroad ( in this case Thailand ) challenges you to step out of your comfort zone, fostering personal growth, adaptability and resilience ( save that phrase for any interviews too ! )
