Animal Rehabilitation

The Facts

Placement details:
El Puma Ecological Park is an animal breeding and rehabilitation centre near Posadas that aims to promote the welfare of wild animals that are native to Argentina. Their objectives are to help sick or injured animals that have been captured by forest rangers by nursing them back to health and to raise the numbers of native species by breeding them while in captivity. The animals are rehabilitated at the centre and then once ready released back to their natural habitat, if possible. El Puma works with the Ministry of Ecology of that province and depends on them for funding.

Why the placement needs volunteers:
Due to the lack of financial resources, the expertise and funding provided by private groups and international conservation agencies is essential to supplement what the Ministry of Ecology provides for conservation in Argentina. This centre needs assistance in taking care of the animals, and volunteers will make up a substantial proportion of the labour force. It is also important to help highlight the importance of animal rehabilitation in Argentina and protecting the country's wildlife, which has long been victim to trafficking.

What kind of skills you need to go on this type of placement:
The biggest requirement for this project is a strong love of all animals, as well as the readiness to be involved with the more basic duties that will be required. Volunteers should be committed and willing to help out wherever needed. A love of the outdoors is also essential.

Your role as a volunteer:
Current duties may include feeding the animals, cleaning and repairing all animal enclosures, building new enclosures, giving guided tours of the centre to any English speaking visitors, observation and data collection of the animals for research. 

Where the placement is based:
El Puma is located in the small town of Candelaria which is approximately 12 miles from the city of Posadas. Candelaria, located on the Rio Parana, is known for its mystical Jesuit ruins, eucalyptus and pine plantations, and is the location of a lovely park that has a waterfall, canyon and campsites. The homestays are in Posadas, a lively city of 250,000. Posadas boasts interesting markets, friendly cafes, cinemas and museums, and there will be plenty to do on the weekends. Volunteers should fly into the airport at Posadas.