The Importance of Volunteers at an Animal Sanctuary: Making a Difference Daily

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Ever thought about making a real difference in the lives of animals? Volunteering at an animal sanctuary is one of the most rewarding ways to do just that. It allows you to interact with and care for the animals in need and be a part of something bigger.

But if this is your first time considering joining a volunteer program in an animal rescue center, you might be wondering what your roles would look like. So, in this article, we’ll walk you through what to expect and how you can make a meaningful impact every day.

Your Role as a Volunteer at an Animal Sanctuary

As a volunteer, you'll have access to a wide range of roles, each one vital to the daily operations and well-being of the animals. You can pick volunteer programs that match your preference and experience level. Here are some common roles of volunteers:

Feed and Care for the Animals

Animal care is one of the greatest joys of volunteering at an animal sanctuary. As a volunteer, you’ll assist sanctuary staff in feeding and care for the animals. You’ll help prepare and deliver meals to animals, from majestic big cats to curious bears. It’s more than just feeding them; it’s about ensuring each animal gets the nutrition they need to stay healthy and happy.

You’ll also help with general care tasks like cleaning habitats, providing fresh water, and maybe even grooming. It’s hands-on work, but it’s fulfilling and rewarding when you love animals like we do!

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Create Enrichment Activities

Animals in sanctuaries need mental stimulation for their well-being. Enrichment activities keep them engaged and healthy as they mimic the challenges they would face in the wild. As a volunteer, you might help create toys, set up challenges, or organize activities that keep the animals engaged and active.

For example, you may set up scent trails for the big cats to follow, hide food in puzzle feeders for the bears to solve, etc. These activities are essential for encouraging natural behaviors and keeping the animals mentally sharp.

Participate in Supporting Medical Care

You won’t be performing medical procedures, but you may still help support the health of the animals. This could involve assisting with routine health checks, helping administer medications, or supporting the sanctuary staff during treatments. Your help ensures that the animals get the care they need, and you’ll learn a lot about each animal's health and welfare along the way.

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Help Maintain Their Homes

Your role will also involve keeping the animals’ habitats clean and safe. This could mean cleaning enclosures, repairing fences, and ensuring everything is secure. It’s physically demanding work, but it’s also deeply satisfying to know that you provide a comfortable and safe environment for the animals. Plus, you’ll see firsthand how much they appreciate a clean, well-maintained home.

Groundskeeping

As a volunteer in this department, you'll spend most of your time outdoors, doing hands-on physical work. Understanding native and exotic plants, landscaping, and gardening is helpful. Your tasks include groundskeeping activities such as trimming, pruning, mulching, raking, and weeding. You might also be asked to perform maintenance tasks, ensuring the sanctuary's grounds stay in great shape.

Participate In Educational Programs and Fundraising

You might help with educational programs, sharing the stories of the animals and the importance of conservation with visitors or school groups. This helps inspire others to care about animal welfare and can be a rewarding part of the experience.

You could also assist with fundraising efforts, whether it’s organizing events or helping produce content for some of our social media campaigns. Every bit of support helps the sanctuary continue its important work.

Be The First Impression of LTB

As the first point of contact for visitors, you’ll greet guests, provide information, and answer questions to make their experience at Lions Tigers & Bears memorable. In this role, it’s important to be honest, outgoing, and reliable. You'll fit right in if you’re friendly and enjoy working with people. Plus, if you’re bilingual in English and Spanish, that’s a big bonus. Your warm welcome can help set the tone for an unforgettable visit.

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How To Become a Volunteer

If you’re ready to make a difference, your next step is to find the right sanctuary. This can be as easy as searching for animal volunteer opportunities near me or San Diego volunteer opportunities, etc. Accredited animal sanctuaries like LTB offer many volunteering opportunities you can take advantage of. Just be sure to meet their 12 years or older age requirements, as well as the following:

We kindly ask all applicants to consider their availability before applying. Our animal residents rely on volunteers and our staff's support for their well-being. Missing a scheduled shift can disrupt their care and affect the essential training that volunteers need.

Become Part of the LTB Family

One of the best things about volunteering at an animal sanctuary in California is the sense of community you’ll find. You’ll work alongside passionate staff members and volunteers who share your love for animals. It’s a welcoming, supportive environment where you’ll make new friends and be part of a team dedicated to making a difference. The connections you build here are just as meaningful as the work you’ll do!

Contact us today, or schedule a visit to learn more about our sanctuary and why we take such great pride in the work we do for these majestic animals!

Spend a Day at Our Animal Sanctuary in San Diego

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If you are looking for a fun and productive way to spend your day, then a visit to our animal sanctuary in San Diego is just what you need! Our sanctuary is home to a range of domestic and wild animals rescued from various situations. We have lions, leopards, tigers, bears, bobcats, servals, jaguars, etc., and every single one of these animals has a story that will inspire and warm your hearts. Let’s talk about what you can expect when spending a day at Lions Tigers & Bears:

A Brief Overview of Lions Tigers & Bears

Lions Tigers & Bears (LTB) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to rescuing, rehabilitating, and providing lifelong care for abused and abandoned exotic animals. Our sanctuary is located just 45 minutes from downtown San Diego in Alpine, California, on 142 beautiful acres on the edge of the Cleveland National Forest. It’s home to more than 60 rescued exotic animals, including bears and big cats, who can live the rest of their lives with dignity.

Beyond caring for our animals, we also offer guided visits, educational programs, volunteer & intern initiatives, and hands-on activities to help raise awareness about the plight of captive exotic animals and the importance of wildlife rescue and conservation. Every visit to LTB supports our ongoing efforts to rescue, rehabilitate, and protect these magnificent animals.

What to Expect When You Spend a Day at LTB

Meet Our Animals

One of the highlights of your visit will be meeting our incredible animal residents. You'll have the chance to see a variety of animals up close, each with its own unique personality and story. From majestic lions to playful bobcats, our sanctuary is home to some truly amazing animals!

Our big cats are especially popular among visitors. 

Our Lions

You’ll meet lions like Louie, Suri, and Jillian. Louie the white lion was rescued in April 2017 along with two other lions, Zulu and Arusha. Their previous owner, a former animal trainer, decided it was time to relinquish them, and we were able to help them live out their lives with care and dignity at our animal sanctuary. 

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Our Tigers

You’ll also meet Zoe, our beloved tiger. In May 2021, our team took part in a large-scale rescue at Tiger King Park in Oklahoma. The United States Department of Justice removed 68 big cats from the facility due to numerous Endangered Species Act violations. Bobbi Brink, our founder and director, was able to bring Zoe and another tiger, Jem, back to LTB. But Zoe and Jem aren’t our only tigers; we also have Kallie, Moka, Nola, and Crystal. 

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Other Beloved Residents

We have many other amazing animals with unique stories waiting to be heard. Our leopard, Conga, our jaguar Eddie, and our bears, Susie, Sallie, Cherry Bomb, Meatball, Baloo, Liberty, Sugar Bear, Rocky, and Teddy, each have their tales of resilience. Our servals, Savanna, Junior, Denali and Miss Kitty, and our bobcats, Atlas, Mia, Diego, and RJ, also have fascinating backgrounds. 

Every animal at Lions Tigers & Bears is here because of an incredible story of rescue and rehabilitation.We also have a variety of domestic animals, from horses, emus, cows, a llama, a tortoise and a macaw. 

When you visit, you'll get to hear these stories firsthand and see the wonderful lives these animals now lead. It’s a reminder of the importance of accredited animal sanctuaries and the impact of giving these animals a second chance. So spend a day with us, meet our incredible residents, and be part of their journey. 

Educational Tours and Programs

Educating the public is an essential part of what we do here. We aim to not only rescue and care for these incredible animals but also educate people about the importance of animal rescue and wildlife conservation through community outreach, school field trips, volunteer & intern programs and more. 

Guided Visits 

When you visit, one of the best ways to learn about our work is through our guided visits. These amazing experiences are led by our knowledgeable visit guides who are passionate about animal rescue and saving and protecting wildlife. During the visit, you'll get up close and personal with our residents and hear their stories of survival and rehabilitation. It's a powerful experience that really brings home the importance of the work we're doing.

Educational Programs

We also have a range of educational programs designed to raise awareness about the issues facing wild animals and the importance of sanctuaries like ours. These programs are tailored for different age groups, from school children to adults, and they cover a variety of topics, including the challenges of captivity, the process of animal rescue, and what it takes to provide lifelong care for these animals.

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Volunteer Opportunities

If you’re looking to get even more involved, we offer numerous volunteer opportunities where you can contribute directly to the care and well-being of our animals. Volunteering is a fantastic way to learn more about animal rescue and the day-to-day operations of a sanctuary. Plus, it’s incredibly rewarding to know you’re making a tangible difference in the lives of these animals.

Why Are Accredited Animal Sanctuaries Important?

True Accredited Sanctuaries like LTB provide a lifetime safe haven for rescued animals – and here’s why this is so important. 

Most of the animals we rescue come from situations of severe neglect, abuse, exploitation or abandonment. Some were kept as pets by private owners who couldn't meet their needs, while others were used for entertainment or illegally trafficked. These animals often arrive at our sanctuary in poor health, both physically and mentally.

Accredited sanctuaries like ours give these animals a second chance at life. We provide a safe, loving environment where they can recover and thrive. Our dedicated team of wildlife experts works tirelessly to ensure each animal receives the best possible care, from veterinary treatments to proper nutrition and enrichment activities that mimic their natural behaviors. Sadly, we can’t rehabilitate and release these animals back into the wild because they would be unable to survive in the wild on their own. 

We also advocate for stronger laws and regulations to protect wildlife. Through our work, we aim to inspire change that will lead to better protection for all animals worldwide. We're part of a larger movement working towards a future where all animals can live safely and freely in their natural environments.

Support Lions, Tigers & Bears

We hope to see you soon. Your support and your visit can really go a long way in supporting our California wildlife rescue and animal sanctuary efforts. If you have any questions or want to learn more about our true accredited sanctuary, feel free to reach out to us:

Lions Tigers & Bears
[email protected]
(619) 659-8078
24402 Martin Way
Alpine, California 91901

Educational Programs at Our San Diego Animal Sanctuary

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What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you think about an animal sanctuary? If you’re like most people, I bet majestic wild animals, calming environments, nature and outdoor experiences, conservation, etc. These are all synonymous with animal sanctuaries because they do a great job rescuing and sheltering wild and domestic animals. 

But most sanctuaries also offer humane education to help raise awareness about the plight of exotic animals and the importance of rescue & conservation efforts. In this article, we’ll explore the educational programs we offer at our San Diego animal sanctuary. 

Overview of Educational Programs

At Lions Tigers & Bears, it’s not just about seeing the wildlife in the sanctuary but understanding why they’re here and what needs to be done to ensure these animals remain in their natural world. Our wildlife education programs provide insight into the lives of animals, wildlife rescue operations, ethical responsibility, and conservation efforts. In a world where people hunt down wildlife for fame and financial gain, such programs stand as productive countermeasures that can inspire a whole new generation of animal welfare advocates. 

Engaging Wildlife Presentations

As The San Diego Animal Sanctuary is home to over 60 rescued exotic animals, including big cats and bears, each animal has a unique story that deserves to be told. That’s one of the many things that our knowledgeable staff loves to do. When you visit, our team will take you through the rescue stories and also provide deep insights into their behaviors, habitats, and conservation status. 

Conservation Efforts

You’ll learn about the exotic animal trade and why it must be outlawed. Our program provides practical knowledge and real-world examples to help you comprehend the severe impact this illicit trade has on wildlife populations and ecosystems. The things you thought were normal – like wild animals performing at roadside zoos or people posing with tiger cubs – are actually quite dangerous for these animals. And when you understand this, you’re in a better place to become an advocate for the animals. 

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Special Field Trip & Summer Day Camp Programs

Our field trips and day camps are designed to captivate the minds and hearts of children and students. These programs include a combination of educational talks, interactive activities, and opportunities to observe the animals in their naturalistic habitats. Each child gets a specially crafted interactive activities card that’s packed with information about our animal residents. They also get a chance to showcase their newfound knowledge to our friendly volunteer team and receive a special prize as a reward.

In addition to our educational programs for kids, Lions Tigers & Bears offers robust internship and volunteer programs for those passionate about animal welfare. Interns and volunteers gain hands-on experience in animal care, education, and sanctuary operations, making a significant impact on the lives of our animal residents. Whether you're looking to start a career in wildlife rescue or simply want to give back, our programs provide a rewarding opportunity to learn and grow while helping animals in need.

How These Programs Help

Our educational programs raise awareness about the challenges exotic animals face, like habitat loss, the illegal wildlife trade, and their need to be rescued and provided sanctuary. Here’s how: 

Raising Awareness

The truth is that wild animals face many issues that threaten their existence and homes. Threats such as habitat destruction, poaching, and illegal wildlife trade destroy their habitats, change their ways of life, and damage their well-being. Our programs aim to make people aware of these threats, and the urgent need for animal protection and rescue. Awareness is the first step toward change.

Educational Focus

We concentrate on educating the public about the particular dangers that different species encounter. This includes explaining how human activities such as deforestation, urbanization, and pollution all contribute to habitat loss. We also shed light on the illegal wildlife trade, detailing how it threatens the survival of many exotic animals and the broader impact on biodiversity.

Problem-Solving 

Our programs don't just stop at highlighting problems. We also provide practical steps that you and your community can take to help mitigate these threats. Great examples of actions include:

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Engaging Lesson Plans

We use engaging lesson plans for the school trips to make learning about these issues compelling and memorable. Kids are more likely to focus and understand when the activities are engaging, so we ensure the lessons are informative and interactive. Our approach helps to cement the knowledge and inspire lasting interest and concern for wildlife rescue.

Interactive Activities

Our interactive activities allow learners to experience rescue efforts firsthand. We offer guided tours of the sanctuary, sessions on wildlife rescue and rehabilitation, interactive activity cards, and animal presentations designed to make the information more relatable and impactful. Our educational programs aim to inspire a sense of responsibility and commitment to the well-being of all animals. 

Building a Sanctuary Community

Ultimately, our goal is to build a community of informed and passionate people who are dedicated to protecting wildlife. We hope to create a ripple effect where more and more people become involved in rescue efforts, leading to broader societal change.

Features of the Lions Tigers & Bears Animal Sanctuary

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Lions Tigers & Bears offers a wonderful opportunity for kids as well as adults to connect with and learn about exotic animals in a safe and educational environment. Our sanctuary is located just outside of San Diego in Alpine, California, on the edge of the Cleveland National Forest, and features:

Educational programs at our animal sanctuary in San Diego are essential in promoting awareness and understanding of the challenges facing exotic animals and the importance of conservation efforts. Visit Lions Tigers & Bears and give your kids the chance to connect with exotic animals in a meaningful way. You'll walk away with a deeper understanding of our efforts and the vital importance of protecting these incredible animals.

New Year, New Beginnings: A Call for 2024 Donors & Supporters

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Animals play an important part in the stability of the ecosystem and our lives. They are excellent companions and contribute to the overall balance and functioning of the ecosystem. Even those in sanctuaries help preserve this delicate balance. They act as ambassadors for their wild counterparts, providing insights into their natural behaviors, habitats and conservation needs.

But sadly, animals don’t have a safety net in society or a voice of their own. Unless we step up as donors and supporters, many animals remain vulnerable to cruelty, exploitation, and habitat destruction. Others, like tigers and bears, even face the looming threat of extinction. As we usher in the New Year, it's a good time to extend our support to Lions Tigers & Bears (LTB) and other nonprofit organizations committed to the welfare and conservation of wild animals.

Why is Your Support Important?

As HuffPost puts it, we live in tough economic times. So many people are nervous about parting with any portion of their hard-earned money for public good. This means that charitable organizations, especially animal-oriented ones – are facing a hard time. It also means that it’s harder for these facilities to accomplish and maintain their goals, which include:

Animal shelters and sanctuaries must also cover overhead costs like employee salaries, facility maintenance, and food and medicine for the animals. But sanctuaries like LTB do not breed or sell animals. They also don’t get government funding for animal rescue. And since they exist to rescue and care for animals that have faced neglect, abuse or exploitation, it means they’re constantly committing to long-term financial burdens.

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Caring for abused animals often demands more extensive medical care, dietary adjustments, and customized facilities, which stretches already limited resources. Without generous contributions from well-wishers like you, it becomes increasingly challenging.

How you can Help Animal Sanctuary

There are many ways you can help support accredited animal sanctuaries like Lions Tigers & Bears. From direct donations and volunteering to adoption and sponsoring, here’s how to make a difference:

Make a Direct Donation

One of the best ways to support our California animal sanctuary is through financial contributions. Every dollar adds up and makes a tangible difference in the lives of rescued animals. Donations may help cover the costs of supplies, daily operations, animal housing upgrades, staff training and payments, animal enrichment, community outreach programs and much more.

LTB has a secure online donation portal where you can easily contribute using a credit card, debit card or PayPal. Consider setting up a regular donation, even if it's a small amount. Recurring monthly or annual donations offer ongoing stability and allow us to plan for the future.

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Host a Fundraiser

Hosting a fundraiser is a fantastic way to engage your community, raise awareness about animal welfare, and generate much-needed funds for the rescued animals at our sanctuary. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Volunteer for Animals

Direct donations and fundraisers are crucial – but it’s not always about money. Our sanctuary thrives on the dedication and passion of volunteers. Volunteering your time and skills is a great way to provide hands-on care and support to the remarkable animals who call LTB home. And you can do this through:

Direct Animal Care

Supporting Operations

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Most volunteer positions require no prior experience, just a willingness to learn and a love for animals. LTB provides training and guidance to ensure you feel comfortable and prepared. And the best part is that you get to choose volunteer opportunities that fit your schedule, whether it's a few hours a week or a one-time event.

Sponsor an Animal at LTB

LTB offers symbolic adoption programs where you can sponsor an animal by contributing $25 or more each month. This money goes towards the lifetime care of the adopted animal. In appreciation, you’ll get a photo of your new furry family member, an official Sponsorship certificate and a personalized thank you note from Bobbi Brink, the Founder at LTB.

Donate Today!

Sanctuaries are perhaps the best place to regain the connection we have lost with animals. But they need ongoing support to sustain their vital work. That’s why we call upon you to support the Lions Tigers and Bears wildlife rescue in San Diego.

As we extend this call to action, we would like to thank our donors and everyone else who has supported our mission thus far. Your generosity has made a tangible difference in the lives of animals, providing them with a safe haven and an opportunity to thrive.

Join us in this journey to preserve the well-being of animals and to foster a world where the bond between humans and animals is cherished. Your generosity is the key to sustaining our work. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of the animals in our sanctuary.

The Transformative Power of Volunteering With Animals

There's something truly magical about the bond between humans and animals. It's a connection that transcends words, a silent understanding that touches the deepest corners of our hearts. If you are looking for a way to give back, volunteering with animals can be an enriching and transformative experience.

Not only does it benefit the animals and the organizations that care for them, but it also has a profound impact on you. From increased empathy and compassion to community involvement and a greater sense of purpose, here's a look at how volunteering with animals can transform your life.

The Connection between Animals and Human Well-being

Animals have a unique ability to uplift our spirits and bring solace during times of distress. Numerous studies have shown that spending time with animals can reduce stress levels, lower blood pressure, and improve mood. The presence of animals releases oxytocin, often called the "love hormone," which fosters feelings of bonding and attachment. These effects extend even further when one engages in hands-on interactions, such as volunteering.

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Ways to Volunteer With Animals

You can volunteer with animals at a reputable and accredited sanctuary like Lions, Tigers, & Bears in various ways, depending on your interests, skills, and the types of animals you'd like to work with. These include:  

How Volunteering With Animals Can Transform Your Life

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Volunteering at organizations like Lions Tigers & Bears isn't just about the animals—it's a journey of personal growth and transformation. At its core, it's about becoming more human. The act of caring for another being, understanding their needs, and responding to their emotions nurtures a profound sense of empathy. The responsibility of tending to the animals' well-being fosters a heightened sense of accountability. And the fulfillment derived from contributing to their happiness and comfort generates an unparalleled sense of purpose.

Here are some ways that volunteer experience can impact your life:

Make a Difference in the Lives of Animals

Volunteering with animals allows you to directly impact the well-being and quality of life of animals in need. When you contribute your time and efforts, you provide animals with care, attention, and love that they might not otherwise receive.

This sense of purpose and responsibility can bring profound satisfaction and fulfillment. Studies have shown that animal interaction can lead to increased feelings of happiness and contentment, and the act of helping animals can create a positive feedback loop of emotional and mental well-being.

Meet New People and Make New Friends

Volunteering often involves working alongside like-minded individuals who share your passion for animals. This provides a natural setting to meet new people and forge meaningful connections. Shared experiences and common goals can lead to the formation of solid friendships. A study published in the NIH journal found that volunteering can increase social integration and reduce feelings of loneliness.

Share Your Talent and Learn New Skills

Volunteering with animals allows you to contribute your existing skills and talents while learning new ones. Whether you have experience in animal care or are eager to learn, there are opportunities to develop expertise in animal care, communication, and teamwork. The acquisition of new skills can enhance your sense of personal growth and accomplishment. It can also add to your job experience, which is critical in professional development.

Feel Better About Yourself by Improving Your Self-Esteem and Confidence

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The act of volunteering, particularly when it involves making a positive impact on animals, can boost self-esteem and confidence. Seeing the tangible results of your efforts and receiving appreciation from animals and fellow volunteers can lead to a greater sense of self-worth. Several studies show that longer volunteering is linked to a higher level of life satisfaction and self-esteem. The volunteer impact can also teach responsibility, problem-solving, and decision-making skills, all of which enhance confidence.

Combat Stress, Social Isolation, and Depression

Interacting with animals has been shown to have therapeutic effects on mental health. Spending time with animals can release oxytocin, a hormone that promotes feelings of bonding and reduces stress. An animal’s companionship and unconditional love can alleviate feelings of social isolation and depression.

Just the audio acknowledgement from a majestic animal like a lion or tiger elicits a connection with a profound effect. According to research, spending time with animals can lower stress levels and enhance emotional well-being.

Great Way to Get Outside

Animal-related volunteer work mainly involves outdoor activities, such as cleaning enclosures or participating in conservation efforts. Engaging in outdoor activities exposes you to fresh air and natural surroundings and encourages physical activity, which is beneficial for both mental and physical well-being. Lions, Tigers, & Bears is located in the beautiful hills of Alpine, bordering the Cleveland National Forest.

Remember that the transformative effects of volunteering with animals can vary from person to person, and the depth of impact often depends on the level of involvement and personal commitment. It's essential to choose opportunities that align with your interests and values to maximize the positive outcomes for both you and the animals you're helping.

Testimonial from Volunteers

As a volunteer, you will make a positive impact on the rescued animals that call Lions Tigers & Bears home. There are various rewarding opportunities to contribute, ranging from helping with fundraisers to building fences and caring for the animals. Each task plays a crucial role in the efficiency of our sanctuary. By volunteering, you'll experience the fulfillment of dedicating yourself to the commitment of helping animals in need.

As a volunteer, you may take on essential responsibilities such as food preparation, guiding visitors as animal ambassadors, cleaning the animal habitats, assisting the veterinary and keeper staff, performing general cleaning tasks, supporting daily educational visits, and even engaging in carpentry, plumbing, electrical work, fence building, and grounds maintenance.

Not only does volunteering benefit the animals, but it's also incredibly beneficial for your well-being. Studies conducted by the Corporation for National and Community Service reveal that giving back through volunteering can lower rates of depression, reduce the risk of disease, and potentially extend your lifespan by several years. Even dedicating as little as two hours a week to helping can have positive effects on your health and the well-being of our beloved animals.

Say Hello to Tammi and Craig

Let's introduce you to two of our remarkable volunteers, Tammi and Craig. They have been a vital part of Lions Tigers & Bears for three years, overseeing the care of our livestock. Tammi and Craig provide invaluable assistance to our expert keepers by engaging in various tasks such as habitat cleaning, grooming, walking the animals, and feeding them.

The special bond they have developed with the animals, particularly with a miniature horse and donkey Spirit, and Jack, is truly heartwarming to witness. The trust these animals place in Tammi and Craig is evident in the excitement they display when the volunteers arrive to take them on walks.

For Tammi and Craig, volunteering at Lions Tigers & Bears not only brings joy and peace to the animals but also adds a sense of fulfillment and happiness to their own lives. The beautiful facility and the opportunity to contribute to the well-being of these wonderful creatures have made their volunteer journey truly enriching. 

Take the first step today. Contact Lions Tigers & Bears and begin your volunteer journey. 

Healing Hearts: Humans and Animals Helping to Heal Each Other

In a world marked by constant hustle and bustle, stress, and the challenges of modern living, the healing power of connections has never been more vital. One particularly heartwarming and scientifically supported association is the bond between humans and animals. Beyond their roles as pets, such as dogs and cats, animals have shown an incredible capacity to heal our hearts in ways that transcend the ordinary. In this article, we delve into the remarkable healing connection between humans and animals, focusing on how human-animal interactions can bring emotional, physiological, and cognitive benefits.

The Therapeutic Bond between Humans and Animals

The bond between humans and animals has long been recognized as an avenue for emotional and psychological support. Many can attest to the solace found in the company of a loyal dog, the soothing presence of a cat's purring, or the gentle nuzzle of a horse. Wild animals also hold the power to establish a therapeutic bond with humans, even those as majestic and awe-inspiring as lions, tigers, and bears. This connection taps into a primal and universal affinity between species, rooted in the shared life experience on Earth.

Studies have shown that spending time with animals can promote happiness and reduce stress.  Other studies found that animals can elevate mood, decrease loneliness and increase feelings of social support. In a world where stress-related health issues are on the rise, this discovery has profound implications for our overall well-being.

How Animals Help Humans Heal

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Animals can contribute to human healing on various levels, offering numerous seen and unseen benefits. Their presence and interactions can profoundly impact well-being, providing comfort and promoting overall health. Here's how animals can help humans heal.

Overcoming  Trauma and Challenges

The therapeutic effect of interacting with animals is particularly evident in individuals who have experienced trauma or challenging life events. Studies have demonstrated that time spent with animals can play a significant role in healing trauma. Whether through direct interactions with therapy animals such as dogs or cats, or engaging in activities at an animal sanctuary, the human-animal bond fosters a sense of safety, trust, and comfort. This bond can be instrumental in helping individuals gradually overcome emotional wounds and regain a sense of normalcy. Animals – especially those rescued from abuse or neglect – show people how to learn to trust again, heal from past traumas, and share that love and bond when they connect with the person.

Emotional Support

Domestic animals offer unconditional love, companionship, and a nonjudgmental presence that can be incredibly soothing. The act of petting a domestic animal, listening to its purring or rhythmic breathing, and feeling its warmth can trigger the release of oxytocin—the hormone associated with bonding and stress reduction. This emotional connection fosters comfort and security, making animals invaluable companions during distress,  loneliness, or sadness. Researchers have discovered that not only do people experience a surge in oxytocin when they gaze into the eyes of dogs, but the same result occurs when they look at exotic animals.

Therapy dog visiting a young female patient in the hospital showcasing emotional healing healing trauma and stress relief

Stress Relief and Mental Health Enhancement

The unseen benefits of spending time with animals extend to stress relief and the enhancement of mental health. Research has consistently shown that animal interactions trigger the release of oxytocin, a hormone that promotes bonding and reduces stress. Petting a dog or observing the graceful movements of a cheetah or lion can induce feelings of calmness, lower blood pressure, and ease anxiety.

Mood Enhancement

Animals have the power to lift spirits and improve mood. Spending time with animals triggers the release of neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, which play essential roles in regulating mood and pleasure. This can be especially beneficial for individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, or mood disorders.

Empathy and Social Skills

Interacting with animals cultivates empathy development and social skills. Caring for animals encourages individuals to consider the needs of another living being, fostering qualities of compassion and understanding. This empathy extends to interactions with fellow humans, promoting healthier relationships and improved emotional intelligence.

How Humans Help Animals

Young adult man adopting adorable dog in animal shelter showcasing stress relief mental health and therapeutic benefits

Just as animals provide therapeutic benefits and emotional healing to humans, humans can be crucial in healing animals, particularly those in vulnerable or challenging situations. Here's how humans can make a positive impact on animals:

Animal Welfare

Humans are responsible for ensuring animals' welfare in various contexts, from domestic pets to animals in captivity. Providing proper care, nutrition, shelter, and medical attention ensures that animals live healthy and fulfilling lives.

Supporting an Animal Sanctuary

Sanctuaries provide safe havens for animals that have been rescued from abusive or neglectful situations. By supporting sanctuaries like Lions Tigers & Bears through donations, volunteering, or spreading awareness, humans directly contribute to the well-being and care of these animals. The contributions create a ripple effect that extends far beyond the sanctuary's fences, touching lives in ways unseen yet deeply felt.

Conservation Efforts

Humans play a critical role in conserving and protecting animal species and habitats. Efforts to combat habitat destruction, poaching, and climate change are essential for preserving biodiversity and preventing the extinction of vulnerable species.

Stories Where Human-Animal Interaction Led to Profound Healing

At Lions Tigers & Bears, we have witnessed the transformative power of shared love for animals, which fosters profound connections of compassion and generosity among people. It takes a special individual to offer their attention, time, and energy to aid animals, and this commendable trait reflects their character, extending far beyond our sanctuary and into their communities.

In 2019, one of our devoted volunteers, Kenny, faced a devastating situation when his wife, Vicki, was diagnosed with kidney failure. For two years, Vicki endured ten hours of dialysis each day, with no guarantees as she waited on a transplant list. In a heartfelt plea posted on the Lions Tigers & Bears bulletin board, Kenny received three responses. One response came from our very own team member, Kathleen, who turned out to be a perfect match. In a remarkable act of kindness, Kathleen selflessly donated her kidney to Vicki, determined to save her life. The transplant procedure was a success, and today, Vicki is fully recovered and living a healthy, fulfilling life. This incredible journey began with a common connection to animals, demonstrating that animals not only offer therapeutic help to humans mentally and physically but also have the power to bring people together in support of each other.

At Lions Tigers & Bears, we celebrate the incredible bond between humans and animals, recognizing how it can inspire extraordinary acts of kindness and compassion. Our community stands as a testament to the profound impact of this connection, reminding us that when we come together, we can create miracles and change lives for the better.