How do you say “I want to go to there” in elephant?
Work with Protected Pandas in Lougantai, Zhouzhi
There are currently only about 1,000 Giant Pandas worldwide, most of them in China. Head to Xi'an, and give researchers there a hand. The volunteer program at the refuge runs in two- or four-week sessions, and offers a chance to work directly with the animals. If you're lucky, you might even pick up a bit of Chinese.
Via Facebook: itoimeaningfultravel
Go to the Golden Retriever Festival in Invernesshire, Scotland
Hosted by the Golden Retriever Club of Scotland, this yearly festival takes place every July in Invernesshire, Scotland, the breed’s ancestral home. The day includes a dog show, dinner, dancing, and frolicking of both the human and non-human variety. With more than 222 dogs in attendance, chances are you’ll never run out of furry heads to scratch.
Via Flickr: guisachangathering2013
Bond With Elephants in Northern Thailand
Go to Northern Thailand to meet a herd of elephants at the Elephant Nature Park. Stay the night, or sign on as a park volunteer for up to four weeks. Not only does the park take in rescued elephants, they also participate in rainforest restoration, averaging 25 acres of planted trees per year. If that doesn’t convince you to come for a visit, maybe these guys will.
Via Facebook: TheElephantNaturePark
Spend a Weekend at The Woodstock Farm Animal Sanctuary
Not looking to get your hands (too) dirty? Book a stay at the Woodstock Farm Animal Sanctuary in Woodstock, New York. A rescue shelter for cows, pigs, chickens, turkeys, ducks, sheep, goats, and rabbits, the sanctuary operates on the simple principle that animals are friends — not dinner. Wake up with the help of an actual rooster alarm clock, and watch the sun set over the Catskill Mountains. Bonus: knowing that the cost of your stay goes toward the care of their more than 300 rescue animals.
