WILDLIFE VOLUNTEERING: THE RED FLAGS MOST PEOPLE MISS
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Spending two weeks at the Shimongwe Veterinary EMS Placement in South Africa was an unforgettable experience, and my only regret is that I didn't stay longer!
This was my first time travelling overseas, and I did it solo, which was slightly daunting, but I never once felt unsafe!
The African Conservation Experience (ACE) team maintained regular contact throughout my placement, and the vets and staff at Blouberg made us feel so welcome.
Every day brought something new. From monitoring anaesthetised rhinos, giving injections and taking a lion's heart rate, to assisting with a critically injured leopard which was rescued after being caught in a poacher's trap.
I had the incredible opportunity to work closely with wildlife I had only ever dreamed of seeing!
I also helped relocate species including kudu, nyala, buffalo and sable, administering medications, monitoring anaesthesia and performing drug reversals on these species.
Beyond the wildlife work, I gained valuable insight into the small animal clinic. Seeing diseases I would rarely encounter back home in Australia, along with the team's resourcefulness and empathy in delivering exceptional patient care with limited resources, was just amazing to see!
The veterinarians were exceptionally supportive, encouraging us to be as hands-on as possible while patiently answering my thousands of questions.
Their passion for teaching, commitment to conservation, and genuine compassion for every patient, whether a rhino or a rabbit, left a very lasting impression!
This placement completely broadened my perspective on veterinary medicine. Seeing how South African veterinarians and farmers work together to balance profit and conservation in a way that prioritises animal welfare standards and improving the genetics of the species was a side of farming I had never experienced before! One that I really appreciated that experience.
South Africa and my experience with ACE is one of a kind, and I will be back!
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