Costa Rica: Animal Rescue Project™

Highlights

Rescue and rehabilitate animals in Costa Rica, a natural haven for both domestic and wild creatures.

Do hands-on volunteer work alongside veterinarians and get first-hand experience
Help care for dogs at a rescue center
Learn about Costa Rica’s animal rescue and wildlife conservation efforts
Zipline and hike through lush valleys
Take a dip in hot springs known for healing properties
Experience a whitewater rafting adventure, go on a catamaran excursion in the water and log some extra hours in the veterinary clinics (21-Day Flagship Program only)

On This Program you will...

On this program you will promote animal rights and spread awareness about the issue in local communities. Gain pre-veterinary experience working alongside certified veterinarians and animal rescue experts. Not only will you do compassionate, hands-on work with lovable, furry friends at a dog rescue center, you’ll also learn about exotic wildlife species in a country known for its dedication to conservation. In your time off service, experience all the outdoor adventure and natural beauty Costa Rica has to offer.

Program Type:

Animal & Wildlife Conservation

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Community Service

This is a service-intensive program shadowing local veterinarians and animal experts. Rotate through different positions at a traveling clinic providing access to veterinary services. Some of the cases you might see include spay and neuter, deworming, and care for skin conditions and wounds. Observe the intake, surgery and postoperative procedures, and help repair critical infrastructure. You may also volunteer your time walking dogs, working on projects requiring physical labor, making toys, and refurbishing the rescue center.

Immersive Learning

In developing countries, pets are often at higher risk of abandonment or disease, simply due to a lack of resources and limited access to veterinary care. Likewise, exotic animals unfortunately face exploitation or the loss of their natural habitats. Learn from guest speakers about Costa Rica’s rescue and conservation efforts. In addition, gain exposure to the processes and procedures of veterinary care.

Adventure

On this program, adventure is around every corner. With its rainforests, volcanoes, hills, and valleys lined with rows upon rows of coffee plants, the inland region of Costa Rica offers some of the richest scenery to be found in Costa Rica. Go ziplining and relax after a long day in natural hot springs. On the 21-Day Flagship Program, experience a one-of-a-kind whitewater rafting expedition, and journey to Costa Rican beaches where you’ll take a catamaran ride and go snorkeling.

Lodging

Students on this program will stay in two distinct areas — San Ramon and Guanacaste. In San Ramon, Home Base is a locally-owned boutique hotel surrounded by hills and lush vegetation with an animal rescue center on-site. In Guanacaste, Home Base is a hotel where students will have access to several local communities, where they’ll support clinics. In all accommodations, students live in gender-segregated rooms with roommates and have access to shared bathrooms. The food at Home Base will reflect the traditional dietary staples of the people in Costa Rica. It will be simple, but fresh and healthy and include delicious, locally-grown fruits.