How to Volunteer Abroad to Help Animals

Few things are more rewarding or beneficial than volunteering abroad and helping needy animals. According to the University of Minnesota, volunteering abroad will allow an individual the opportunity to become an effective member in a multicultural team and develop intercultural communication skills and enhance interpersonal skills. Make your volunteer experience abroad a success by joining a reputable volunteer organization.

• 1

  Attain a passport. A passport is required to travel or volunteer abroad. You can get a passport application at your local post office.

• 2

  Choose a specific country or region abroad where you want to volunteer to help animals. You cannot get the required visa until you know the specific area or country where you will be volunteering. Determine the type of animal you want to help. For example, if you're interested in volunteering or helping elephants or giraffes, you may want to visit a country such as Kenya where these specific animals naturally thrive.

• 3

  Attain a visa. A visa permits entrance into a foreign country and is required to volunteer abroad. Visit the official website of the embassy or the consulate of the country you plan on volunteering and complete the proper forms or applications necessary. According to the Mali Embassy, you will need to provide your passport, which will need to be valid for at least six months, a couple of passport photos, an application form and also all travel arrangements and itinerary of where you will be staying on your trip to successfully get a visa.

• 4

  Choose and join a reputable volunteer organization that offers volunteer opportunities or programs with animals in the country you plan on traveling to. You can find a reputable volunteer organization that offers volunteer opportunities and programs specifically with animals by visiting the GoAbroad website. Under the "Search for Programs" header click "Volunteer Abroad." Choose a "Region" and "Country" where you plan on traveling. Under the "Type of Volunteer Work" header scroll down and click "animal welfare." Under the "Project Duration" header choose the length of time you plan on volunteering. Choose a program or organization to join from the provided list.

• 5

  Complete a general volunteer application with the organization. The application will be used by the organization to match you with appropriate volunteer opportunities.

• 6

  Visit your doctor for a physical examination and to get all necessary vaccinations. Ask the volunteer organization, as well as your doctor, which vaccinations are required to volunteer abroad. Some countries will not allow entrance until you've gotten the appropriate vaccinations and health screenings.