Animal Care Internship

📍Paarl, Western Cape, South Africa

Are you passionate about animal conservation and seeking a hands-on internship experience? The wildlife sanctuary offers unique opportunities for students studying conservation, biology, or related fields. Under the guidance of experienced professionals, you’ll gain invaluable practical experience while contributing to the preservation of South Africa’s diverse ecosystems.

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Internship overview

Time symbolizing the duration of an internship program

Duration

  • ⏱️ 4 – 12 weeks
  • Minimum age: 18+
  • Starts on the first Monday of each month

 

Location

Based in the picturesque town of Paarl, your internship will be in the heart of the Western Cape’s wine country. Just a short drive from Cape Town, Paarl offers easy access to world-class vineyards, charming villages like Franschhoek and Stellenbosch, and iconic landmarks like Table Mountain and the V&A Waterfront.

What you can expect:

Cheetahs roaming around at the animal care internship program in South Africa

Become a wildlife behaviorist:

Join the research team in conducting long-term behavioral studies of our animal inhabitants. Observe their interactions, social dynamics, and how visitors impact their natural behaviors.

Your data will contribute to our understanding of wildlife behavior and conservation efforts.

Cheetah enjoying enrichment activities at the animal care internship program in South Africa

Enrichment to improve instincts:

Play a vital role in keeping the cheetahs engaged and stimulated. Design and implement creative enrichment activities, including treats, toys, and climbing structures, to mimic their natural hunting and foraging behaviors.

Your efforts will contribute to their physical and mental well-being.

Intern student taking part in the animal care program in South Africa getting ready to feed the cheetahs after preparing the meat

Prepare nourishment for the Cheetahs:

Contribute to the health and well-being of the cheetahs by preparing and distributing nutritious meat. Learn food handling techniques, including safely handling raw meat, to ensure the cheetahs receive the highest quality nutrition.

Internship student at the animal care program in South Africa cleaning up the enclosure to preserve the Cheetah's habitat.

Foster the cheetah’s natural habitat:

Play a crucial role in maintaining a pristine environment for our animals. Clean enclosures, ensure fresh water is readily available, and remove any harmful plants that may pose a threat. Your dedication to a clean and safe environment will contribute to the overall well-being of our wildlife.

Cheetah relaxing in the shade at the animal care internship program in South Africa

Inspire future conservationists:

Share your passion for cheetah conservation with the next generation. Participate in the educational outreach programs, where you’ll engage with local children, teach them about the importance of cheetah conservation, and inspire them to become future advocates for wildlife protection.

Where you will stay

Your Home Away From Home

After a day of fulfilling volunteer work, relax and recharge in the comfortable on-site accommodation. Choose from shared units for a social experience or private double and single rooms for added privacy (additional costs apply). Enjoy shared amenities like hot showers and electricity, and unwind in the cozy living room with TV.

Nourished and Refreshed

Start your day with a hearty self-service breakfast featuring cereals, toast, fruits, tea, and coffee. Enjoy delicious, prepared lunches that will fuel your volunteer adventures. Vegetarian diets are welcome, so please indicate your dietary preferences on your application.

Common area at the accommodation of the animal care internship program in South Africa
How the bedrooms look like at the animal care internship program in South Africa
How the bathrooms look like at the animal care internship program in South Africa
Cheetah cub interacting with the volunteers at the wildlife program in South Africa
Close up picture of a cheetah at the sanctuary in South Africa
Internship student getting ready to clean the cheetah enclosures at the animal care internship program in South Africa
Cheetah cub climbing up the tree at the conservation of cheetahs volunteering program in South Africa
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