The Esther Honey Foundation

Introduction

The Esther Honey Foundation, named one of the world’s "100 best volunteer vacations to enrich your life" in National Geographic’s 100 Best Vacations series, provides the only veterinary care in the whole of the Cook Islands, a tropical paradise with friendly people and an easy relaxed way of life. You do not need to be a veterinarian to volunteer, you do need to love animals and working hard.

Types of Projects

The all-volunteer staff treats an average of 219 companion animals monthly (including spaying and neutering an average of 75 monthly) at no cost to the community. Clinic hours are 8-5 Monday through Friday, 9-noon on Saturdays. Emergencies are accommodated 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Volunteers work as a team, expectations vary depending on the volunteer's skills and the situation.

Locations

The Esther Honey Foundation Animal Clinic is located on Rarotonga in the Cook Islands. EHF VET TREKS provide veterinary and education services on remote islands.

Timeline

Volunteers volunteer from two weeks to two years. Most volunteer from four to six weeks.

Accommodations

Basic, dorm-style lodging is provided on a first-come, first-served, basis.

Prerequisites

21 or older. CV and 2 references required.

Costs

Most program fees range from $225.00-$500.00 USD Modest dorm-style housing, visa, local transfers and clinic business-related costs are covered by the foundation; all other expenditures are the responsibility of the volunteer.