Was there anything more magical than visiting the zoo as a kid? You got to see all the animals (before we realized how small their pens are), and if you were truly lucky, you may have even met some of your favorite species. We weren’t worried about how strong parrots’ beaks are—we were too busy ogling all the pretty colors!
The thing is, like so much whimsy in our lives, that giddiness disappeared as we got older. Is it still fun to visit a farm in your thirties, surrounded by chickens and all their…odors? Are petting zoos even technically ethical? They’re questions that plague the modern adult. But what if we told you there was a way to recapture the magic of childhood, all while ensuring an animal’s safety? That’s right! We’re talking about animal sanctuaries, and every reason why you should visit one.
What Exactly Are Sanctuaries?
You’ve likely heard the term before, but what’s the difference between a sanctuary and a petting zoo? Well, zoos are usually for-profit establishments, whereas sanctuaries pride themselves on rescuing animals and ensuring they have proper care—all without a dime from you. Of course, you can donate, but it’s not a requirement.
While some petting zoos have come under fire for unethical behaviors, sanctuaries go out of their way to take in neglected or abused animals. They nurse them back to health, provide round-the-clock care, and don’t subject any poor goats to a cover charge just to be pet.
One of the best things about them is that they’re also forever homes! Many rescue shelters are either at capacity or simply don’t have the means for every stray they encounter. Sanctuaries, on the other hand, hold those babies tight and provide lifelong care.
Okay, But What’s In It For You?
Now, as nice as sanctuaries sound, is it feasible to drop thousands of dollars on a trip to Thailand? Hold your horses—we’re not saying you should pack up and go across the world! We are, however, saying that you can snag plenty of benefits from the comfort of your own country.
First and foremost, you should go because they’re educational. Caregivers know the ins and outs of animal care, and they’re more than willing to share stories and gently guide you through the feeding process. Before you pet them, you’ll also receive tips on how to properly handle them so that you and the animal are safe.
You’ll also get firsthand knowledge of animal welfare and conservation efforts in the area. If you do head to another country, you’ll learn even more about natural habitats and the environment these animals live in. It’s sort of like stepping into your own episode of The Magic School Bus!
A Little Volunteer Work Goes a Long Way
While it’s always helpful to donate money, sanctuaries thrive with volunteers. Depending on the size and location, you could easily score gigs doing marketing work, animal care, or even administration. Sanctuaries often need a commitment as well, so you’ll need to swear off those weekends for a few months, but it’s worth it to know the animals are cared for.
Studies also show that volunteer work does wonders for your mental and physical health. You feel more empowered, you’re motivated, and you develop a stronger sense of community. Volunteering is also a great way to make new friends, which is especially difficult as an adult.
That’s not to say that an international trip can’t inspire at-home advocacy either! Trust us, a few hours with an adorable elephant will change your outlook on animal welfare and habitat preservation. Though you might not have the same opportunities at home, you can still reach out to local charities and see what’s available in your hometown.
Get Your Passport Ready
Unless you’re in Tanzania or Australia, top-notch animal sanctuaries likely aren’t in your backyard. You know what that means—a trip is in order! Some of the best sanctuaries are found in Kenya, India, and China, all of which cater to specific animals.
India, for example, is a great candidate for Bengal tigers and rescued bears. If adorable pandas are more your scene, China’s Sichuan Giant Panda Sanctuaries is actually a UNESCO site and protects up to 30% of the world’s wild pandas! Australia focuses primarily on, you guessed it, koalas and kangaroos (not exactly two species you wanna get close to, but they’re cute all the same).
Sanctuaries devote their time and energy to preserving habitats. They rescue animals from terrible conditions and let them roam free in a safe environment, allowing them to interact when they’re ready. Best of all, they have a roof over their heads for the rest of their lives. It’s not every day you spend time with an elephant, let alone feed them peanuts, but it’s an experience neither one of you will forget—especially not them!
