Volunteer in a Horse Sanctuary

In Córdoba, it is common practice to use horses to collect recyclable garbage such as cardboard and plastics from the streets, which are then sold to recycling companies. Unfortunately, this job is often undertaken by individuals who lack the financial means or education to properly feed and provide adequate care for the horses. Consequently, many of these horses are found malnourished and in poor health. 

About the Project
In 2013, the Sanctuary was established in the hills of Cordoba, Central Argentina, as a response to the prevalent suffering experienced by horses throughout Latin America. This sanctuary, situated on a 312-hectare property featuring green meadows, forests, mountain pastures, and a river, serves as a haven of peace, beauty, and freedom for animals.

The project aims to provide a refuge for horses that were previously used in rubbish collection, offering them much-needed medical care and ensuring their well-being. Through this campaign, significant progress has been made in liberating thousands of horses from their distressing conditions and replacing them with motorised vehicles across Latin America. The sanctuary grants these horses a new lease on life, providing them with peace and dignity. Around 160 horses, 4 ponies, 7 donkeys, 3 pygmy donkeys, 2 mules, 14 cows, 1 buffalo, 23 goats, 11 sheeps, 25 pigs, 3 wild boars, 4 llamas, 25 dogs and 10 roosters currently live at the Sanctuary. After a miserable existence knowing nothing but drudgery, suffering and mistreatment, they have begun a new life here. All the more now, the team loves and cares for these liberated animals.

The project team at our sanctuary consists of a dedicated group of individuals with diverse backgrounds and expertise. The team typically includes 5-6 permanent staff members, including biologists, scientists, and a veterinarian. Their knowledge and experience contribute to the overall management and care of the sanctuary.

In addition to the permanent staff, the team is supported by a group of 4-5 volunteers.Yet, there is still so much to do. Tens of thousands of rubbish-collection horses are waiting to be freed in Argentina alone. There is great support for the movement within government and society. However, political progress often takes time, hence plenty of patience is required.

Want to see other ways to make an impact? Check out our Volunteer in South America programs.

Volunteer Roles & Responsibilities

Volunteers at a sanctuary play a vital role in supporting the well-being and daily operations of the facility. Some common tasks that volunteers may engage in at a sanctuary include:

Animal Care: Volunteers assist in the care and maintenance of the animals at the sanctuary. This can involve feeding, grooming, and providing clean water for the animals. They may also help with exercise and enrichment activities.

Cleaning and Maintenance: Volunteers help keep the sanctuary clean and well-maintained. This includes tasks such as cleaning animal enclosures, sweeping or mopping floors, and tidying up common areas.

Rehabilitation and Medical Care: Depending on the needs of the sanctuary, volunteers may aid in the rehabilitation of rescued animals. This can involve assisting with physical therapy, administering medications, or providing specialized care under the guidance of veterinary staff.

Environmental Enrichment: Volunteers contribute to creating a stimulating and enriching environment for the animals. This may include creating and setting up toys, puzzles, or other forms of enrichment activities to keep the animals mentally stimulated and engaged.

Construction and Repair Work: In some cases, volunteers may assist with construction or repair projects at the sanctuary. This could involve building or repairing animal enclosures, fences, or other necessary infrastructure.

Education and Outreach: Volunteers may participate in educational programs and events aimed at raising awareness about animal welfare and the sanctuary’s mission. Volunteers are provided with training and guidance to ensure the safety and well-being of both the animals and the volunteers themselves.

Requirements & eligibility

Volunteers must be 18 years or older at the time of joining the project. You need to have an open mind and a flexible attitude for working in a new and different environment. The volunteer should bring energy and enthusiasm to make a difference. Apart from the above the following requirements are there –

• A minimum commitment of 2 weeks is required for volunteers at our horse sanctuary. This duration allows for meaningful involvement in the daily operations, bonding with the horses, and contributing to the overall mission of the sanctuary. It also provides an opportunity for volunteers to gain a deeper understanding of the work involved and make a significant impact during their time at the project.

• Tolerance and Respect: It is essential to be tolerant of others and to respect individual differences within the sanctuary community.

• Collaboration and Independence: Volunteers should be comfortable working both in a team environment and independently when required.

• Proactive Attitude: We value volunteers who are proactive and demonstrate initiative in their work, taking proactive steps to contribute to the sanctuary’s operations and welfare of the animals.

• Passion for Animals and Nature: It is crucial that volunteers applying for this position genuinely love animals and have a strong appreciation for nature.

• Good overall mental and physical health: This ensures that you are capable of actively engaging in the volunteer activities and can handle the physical demands associated with working at the horse sanctuary. Prioritizing your well-being will allow you to contribute effectively and maintain a positive experience throughout your time as a volunteer. Please keep in mind that these requirements are in place to ensure a positive and successful volunteering experience for both the sanctuary and the volunteers.