Recently, we had the rewarding experience of
workamping at the Desert Haven Animal Refuge. The level of animal care
is extraordinary - from accommodations to daily feeding, exercise, hands-on
loving and medical care. The residents have the maximum amount of
freedom possible while still being protected from predators & the
elements. Besides providing the daily care, workers are always busy with
various projects involving such things as repairs, building, or
painting….the goal of which is to maintain & constantly improve the
living conditions of the residents.
Along
with the chores at the Refuge, Workampers are required to put in a few
hours weekly at the Paws & Claws Thrift Shop which provides direct
income for the needs of the Refuge. While retail work is not everyone’s
cup of tea, we found management flexible enough to work with us there.
Workampers should be aware that this is an animal refuge in the desert,
not a resort. Self-contained bathing facilities are a MUST; laundry
facilities a plus although there is a Laundromat in town.
Tuesday
is an “all hands on deck” day & while it is a longer day than
usual, many things are accomplished on this day. Besides the daily
morning & evening care of the residents it includes a strategy
meeting of management & Workampers where information & direction
is shared. It also includes a pot luck lunch which not only provides an
excellent meal but also gives everyone a chance to get to know each
other better & share experiences. We had an eclectic group & the
lunch conversation was lively, informative & entertaining.
Finally,
Tuesday is project day….when things requiring group effort or special
attention get done.
One of the things
we really liked was that we could spend extra time with the animals,
above & beyond our required hours if we wanted to (& we did).
All in all it was a very rewarding experience. During our time there, we
were privileged to be a part of the adoption of several peacocks, a
kitten & 4 dogs……and to participate in the rescue of 2 cats & 5
more dogs. Sadly, we also experienced the passing of long-time resident
“Sarge”.
Our final comment: It is
our humane responsibility to provide good husbandry for all animals.
Those who have been neglected or mistreated require special attention
and lots of LOVE and at Desert Haven, they get it. Desert Haven is all about the animals!!!
We wish Desert Haven continued success.
Cindy & Cathy
Cleveland, Ohio
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