If you are looking for some recommednations because you are a woman over 50 or you are purchasing a present for one.. can we recommend PunchMag? This wonderful resource isn’t just about purchasing power, it’s also about supporting eachother in this community! Check them out and follow along! You will even see a mention of us!
Marine Volunteering in Honour of Icarus.
Many of us were bereft after the internet took a video of an angler fish and made poetry from it. If you haven’t seen her yet, it was a female angler fish nick named Icarus who for the first time in science was recorded swimming close to the surface of the water. Normally angler fish stay at the very bottom of the ocean, the only light they see is from bioluminescence from their own lanterns and other animals in the depths. Why did she swim to the surface? Probably because she was old and sometimes these things happen when fish get old. But the poets, artists and sensitive souls on the internet decided she wanted to see the sun on her face, she wanted to see light that she didn’t have to create by herself. Did this touch you like it touched us? Because I still have tears in my eyes for sweet Icarus.
But what are we to do with this emotion we have for the ocean dwellers? Of course we think you should volunteer! We have programs with sharks, sea turtles and dolphins (there are two group trips this year in Croatia)! Sometimes you stay on a boat, sometimes you tag animals, sometimes you help restore their environments. No matter what you are helping their populations and the ecosystems they live in. If you are interested in our marine programs check out our website to look through and see calls to your heart.
Want your friends to come travel with you? Forward them this email and you’ll both get 10% any program when you volunteer in 2025!
What is Enrichment... exactly?
Animals need psychological, physical and sensory stimulation to live happy and healthy lives. When an animal lives in the wild, it's constantly using it's physical body and it's brain to keep itself alive and engaged. Burrowing, hunting, nesting, playing with littermates, and sometimes playing in the natural world (Google: otters playing).
When animals are not in the natural world- in sanctuary or rehabilitative and medical care, they can grow bored, angry, stressed and sometimes even self harm.
Enrichment is tools and activities we can make for the animals to make sure they their physical, emotional and psychological wellfare being is taken care of.
Enclosure design is as important as the manual enrichment devices, tools, games and other stimulating activities. Natural flora, access to water, routine cleaning, socialization with other individuals, and occupational games with rewards; all help animals in an unnatural environment feel as close to nature as possible.
In Thailand, every day we spend the afternoon making different enrichment for the elephants who live in sanctuary. From buring watermelons so they have to use their sense of smell, to making rafts with bananas so they problem solve on how to get treats from their ponds. In Guatemala we often make banana leaf origami stars with pieces of mango in them so the parrots have to use their beaks and feet while engaging their minds. In Malawi, fire hoses have been cut and sewed along one edge, straw and peanuts are stuffed into the other end and monkeys have to practice dexterity if they want an afternoon snack.
Enrichment isn't just a fun activity for humans to think up, it's a deeply important part of animal husbandry, it's a way we can make sure the animals are having the best quality of life during their stay with us.
tl;dr: Environmental enrichment is a term used to describe changing a captive animal’s environment in a way that improves the animal’s quality of life.
Fix Georgia Pets guest blog
Partners in Change: How Local Businesses are Supporting Spay & Neuter Efforts
In the picturesque state of Georgia, where the charm of southern hospitality meets diverse landscapes, a silent crisis unfolds that affects its four-legged inhabitants. The companion animal overpopulation crisis, coupled with high euthanasia rates, presents a pressing challenge for the state. However, amidst this daunting issue, a beacon of hope shines through the collaborative efforts of local businesses and organizations working tirelessly to turn the tide through spay and neuter programs.
The Heart of the Matter: Georgia's Pet Overpopulation Crisis
Georgia faces a dire situation with its companion animals. The overpopulation of pets leads to numerous challenges, not least of which is the high rate of euthanasia. In many communities, shelters are overwhelmed, lacking the resources and space to care for the influx of homeless animals. This crisis not only affects the well-being of these animals but also places a strain on local communities and their resources.
Fix Georgia Pets: A Crusader for Change
At the forefront of addressing this issue is Fix Georgia Pets, a nonprofit organization dedicated to ending pet overpopulation and the subsequent euthanasia of companion animals in the state. By focusing on spay and neuter programs, particularly in high-need communities, Fix Georgia Pets aims to reduce the number of pets entering shelters. Their mission is clear: to help every community in Georgia tackle this crisis head-on, ensuring healthier lives for pets and alleviating the burden on shelters.
Local Businesses: Joining the Fight
Recognizing the magnitude of the problem and the importance of community involvement, local businesses across Georgia are stepping up to support spay and neuter efforts. These businesses, understanding their role as pillars of the community, are partnering with organizations like Fix Georgia Pets to foster a culture of responsibility and care for companion animals.
Financial Support and Awareness
Many businesses contribute by providing financial support to spay and neuter programs. This funding is crucial, enabling organizations to offer low-cost or free services to pet owners in high-need areas. But their involvement doesn't stop at financial contributions. Businesses also play a key role in raising awareness about the importance of spaying and neutering pets, leveraging their platforms to educate the public and advocate for responsible pet ownership.
Hosting and Participating in Community Events
Local businesses frequently host or participate in community events aimed at promoting spay and neuter programs. These events serve as vital platforms for educating the public, offering services, and fostering a community spirit dedicated to addressing the pet overpopulation crisis. Through these events, businesses help bring the issue to the forefront, encouraging community members to become part of the solution.
Collaborative Programs and Partnerships
Innovative partnerships between businesses and local organizations exemplify the power of collaboration. For example, veterinary clinics may offer discounted services for spay and neuter procedures, supported by local businesses. Retailers might donate a portion of their sales to fund these initiatives. Such collaborations not only amplify the impact of spay and neuter programs but also demonstrate a community-wide commitment to resolving the crisis.
Volunteerism and In-Kind Support
Beyond financial contributions, businesses encourage their employees to volunteer in support of spay and neuter efforts, fostering a culture of community service and engagement. In-kind support, such as donating supplies or services, also plays a critical role in bolstering the resources available to organizations focused on reducing pet overpopulation.
The Ripple Effect: Beyond Spay and Neuter
The support for spay and neuter programs by local businesses and organizations has far-reaching implications. By addressing the root cause of the overpopulation crisis, these efforts contribute to a decrease in the number of pets entering shelters, thereby reducing euthanasia rates. Moreover, spayed and neutered pets often lead healthier, longer lives, reducing the burden on veterinary care systems and enhancing the quality of life for pets and their owners alike.
A Call to Action: Every Contribution Counts
The battle against pet overpopulation and high euthanasia rates in Georgia is a collective endeavor. Local businesses, by joining hands with organizations, play a pivotal role in driving change and fostering a more humane and caring society. Their contributions, whether financial, in-kind, or through raising awareness, are invaluable in the quest to ensure that every pet in Georgia has the chance to live a healthy and safe life.
Conclusion: A United Front for a Compassionate Future
As we witness the growing collaboration between local businesses and dedicated organizations, there's a sense of hope and optimism for Georgia's companion animals. This partnership, grounded in compassion and action, is a testament to the power of community and the positive change that can be achieved when we work together. By supporting spay and neuter efforts, we're not just addressing a crisis; we're building a foundation for a future where every pet is valued, cared for, and loved. Together, we can transform the landscape of animal welfare in Georgia, ensuring a brighter tomorrow for all pets.
Please learn more and visit our friends at: Fix Georgia Pets.
Who is AEI?
Animal Experience International (AEI) sets itself apart from competitors by focusing exclusively on animal-related volunteer experiences. This specialization allows the brand to offer a wide range of unique and immersive opportunities for animal lovers, students, professionals and adventure seekers.
AEI's Consent Based Tourism model is another differentiating factor that ensures all interactions are consensual from the communities hosting volunteers to the treatment of animals involved. This model promotes responsible tourism and ethical treatment of animals.
Additionally, AEI offers comprehensive support throughout the entire experience - from pre-departure training on cultural sensitivity and ethical travel to ongoing support during the trip.
Moreover, as a B Corp organization, AEI operates under high standards of verified social and environmental performance, public transparency, and legal accountability to balance profit and purpose which is not common among all competitors.
Lastly, AEI's small group trips led by a group leader provide an extra layer of comfort for those who may be hesitant about traveling alone or volunteering in foreign locations.
Veggies Abroad Podcast
Do you eat vegetables? Do you want to know more about consent based tourism? Do you want to know how to see if an animal centre is really ethical? You will want to listen to this podcast!
A wish for 2024
Happy holidays dear friends!! It has been quite a few years hasn't it? I don't know anyone who has gotten through without at least a little heart break.
The world is often very divided but up until recently it was fairly easy to sit in a small communal echo chamber and believe we all think the same way. The world has often been unsafe for people in particular bodies but only recently have pictures and videos spilled over into once were we solely got entertainment.
Travel is a massive privilege and not deemed a necessity- while mobility itself is seen a freedom.
While we sit in a world of paradoxes, of one filled with joy and cruelty, I find myself being so truly thankful to each and every one of you. Not only for traveling with us and helping us stay a float while continuing to fill our hearts as more animals continue to get help; but also for traveling at all. For believing - like we do, that travelling ethically and with consent means we will sometimes be uncomfortable but we will always be on the right side of history. Thank you for believing in us, for seeing us and for trusting us.
May 2024 be gentle on us while it crushes oppression.
Gap Year Radio Podcast
“We were trying to decolonize travel. We were trying to think more about equity, think more about entitlement, and travel and where its roots really are in white supremacy and in entitlement.” – Nora
This is how we started the conversation about ethical volunteering with animals on Gap Years (and beyond)! Why not be part of the ongoing conversation of ethics, consent based tourism, fair trade learning and having a great time while traveling.
Listen to the Gap Year Radio Podcast and let us know what you think!
Help Sea Turtles
By bidding on a life changing trip!
We’re excited to be participating in SEE Turtles Sustainable Travel Auction! Bid on one of 8 incredible experiences around the world and the proceeds will help support sea turtle conservation efforts around the world.
Check out our trip and all of the others and place your bids here:
Small steps still deserve big celebrations
Sustainable and authentic change is rarely quick and easy. It is achieved through many small and often difficult steps. AEI aims to improve the lives of animals around the world and support the local communities of our partner organizations while empowering people to travel in an ethical and meaningful way. But truly, AEI's real goal is to not be needed. We want to live in a world where the conservation of species isn't just a consideration of people and countries, it's a top priority. We want animal welfare laws to be so strict and wide-reaching that no animals - wild or domestic, are exploited by people. But we realise we are not going to get there next year, or the year after. Real change takes time.
This means we celebrate the small accomplishments and get comfortable living in transitions, not in binary change. If we don't celebrate small achievements, we will never get to those big wins!
Our dog rescue and animal welfare partner in Nepal works with the local government to address the overpopulation and health needs of community dogs. The government solution had been to reduce their numbers through culling, which involved leaving poisoned food out, killing owned, domestic and feral dogs, and other animals indiscriminately. Instead, our partner now provides vaccinations and mass sterilization campaigns that have successfully controlled the dog population and improved their health. What do we want? No dogs to be hurt ever again, of course. However, we celebrate the small victory of having some communities in Nepal safe from culls, and the lives of many dogs saved. This small step - a community agreeing to follow evidence based scientific methods for canine population control, will hopefully lead us to a complete ban on culls and poisoning.
In Thailand, elephants are still exploited - a lot, by tourists. Elephants are wild animals, they have never been domesticated so for many reasons having them around humans is incredibly cruel. It is unforgivable that they are "broken" in crush cages as young elephants, that they literally break their backs when tourists ride them, and that male elephants' legs often become badly infected and sore when they are chained to keep tourists safe for pictures. What needs to happen eventually? All elephants should have no contact with humans and be completely left alone to live in large protected areas to keep them out of trouble and to keep humans from bothering them and getting hurt. But currently, this is not a possibility. While many protected areas exist in Thailand, there are many elephants who cannot be brought immediately to a wild area because they need veterinary care, psychological help and protection from poachers. This means there are still centres, our partners included, that offer elephants sanctuary and care. Volunteers are able to interact with some elephants in this way, helping to provide the elephants with environmental enrichment and supplemental food. Centres used to say that elephants could be ridden but the small victory was having no chains. Then all ethical centres banned people riding on elephants. Some centres allowed swimming with the elephants but after studies showed the harm and potential danger to both elephants and people, ethical centres also banned this practice. A small step towards elephants living in freedom, but a deeply important one. We celebrate that our partner in Thailand is taking steps towards the ultimate goal for these elephants - a life free and safe without human contact. Until then we will know how deeply privileged we are to have any consensual interaction with an elephant, especially one who is at a sanctuary to heal from a viscous and cruel chapter of their life.
Wherever the lives of people and wild animals intersect, problems are created that inevitably impact wildlife in a negative way. Wild spaces are being lost, polluted, divided and controlled by humans. It seems no place on earth is safe. Our partner in South Africa studies and protects sharks and marine habitats. When we visited this placement, Nora was able to take part in their study to determine if cage diving (when divers obverse the sharks from the safety of cages) opened sharks up to dangers because they recognized boats as helpful things that gave them chum. So far the study is finding that the sharks recognize boats with cages to be feeding boats and avoid other boats. It is probably true that highly intelligent whales can see hunting boats are different from recreational boats. But marine life still must contend with hazards such as boat propellers, fishing gear and trash. For example, in British Columbia, a Humpback whale was just hit by a ferry. It should not be the responsibility of wild animals to recognize human dangers and avoid them. The first step to helping these animals is have a less fragmented natural world for them. More spaces that aren't broken up by roads, mining, logging and development. More marine protected areas where massive ship traffic and fishing isn't allowed. It isn't about getting rid of all roads, it's not about getting orcas to sink all yachts (or maybe it is haha) - it's about seeing how we can share Earth. What small steps can we take now that can lead to a much different and a much better future.
Are we striving for perfection? Absolutely. But we know that won't come overnight, it will be a result of countless small and wide ranging changes. And they will be celebrated because each one brings us closer to the world we dream can exist - a world where humans and animals live in freedom and without cruelty.
