Animal Army Foundation

I’m spending part of my trip volunteering through Workaway, a platform that connects travellers with volunteer opportunities around the world in exchange for accommodation and meals. It’s a great way to experience new places while contributing to meaningful projects, and that’s how I ended up at Animal Army Foundation in Sattahip, Thailand.

Animal Army Foundation is a non-profit rescue and veterinary hospital dedicated to providing medical care, rehabilitation, and a safe space for stray and mistreated animals. Since it relies entirely on donations and volunteer work, every bit of support (whether financial or hands-on) makes a difference in keeping the place running. The foundation takes in animals that would otherwise have little to no chance of survival, offering everything from life-saving surgeries to long-term care for those with disabilities (Dr. Kwanchai, who is the vet here, is often compared to Noel Fitzpatrick in the UK, if anyone also enjoys watching the Supervet on tv haha)

The work is split between shifts at the clinic and the two volunteer houses. In the clinic, days typically consist of cleaning cages, making sure all the dogs are fed, giving them time in the garden and playing with them. In the volunteer houses, time is spent making sure all the disabled dogs are well looked after, walking them, and cleaning the outside areas of the house.

I’ve now been here since Sunday so have settled into the routine. One of the most rewarding parts has been walking the disabled dogs in their wheelchairs, giving them the chance to enjoy some time outside, including taking them to the beach. Also, cuddling lots of cute puppies (Almond and Grandpa are my favourites, don’t tell the others hehe)

Beyond the daily routine, there have been some really memorable moments. For Chinese New Year, a group of us joined Dr. Kwanchai in Pattaya to distribute food to the homeless and underprivileged, handing out rice and eggs to over 400 people. It felt good to be part of something that had a direct impact.

Outside of work, I’ve been getting to know the other volunteers through card games, market trips, and conversations about our different backgrounds. On my day off today, I took a trip to Koh Larn, a small island off the coast of Pattaya, where I spent the day reading and relaxing on the beach.

So far, my time at Animal Army has been really enjoyable. It’s clear how much the foundation relies on volunteers and donations to keep going, and being part of it, even for a short time, has been really rewarding. I’m looking forward to the rest of my time here and everything still to come.

I hope everyone is well back home. Please enjoy lots of cute dog photos in the photo area and Almond + Grandpa below🐶