MINGA HOUSE FOUNDATION
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ONLINE APPLICATION

ANIMAL SHELTER & VETERINARIAN ASSISTANT
CORAZÓN ANIMAL

Got Questions?  [email protected]
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Animal Wellbeing

​Service Term:  30 days min required - 20 hrs/week required (Individual volunteer)
University Teams may request 7-14 day itineraries
Spanish Skills Required: Beginner
Experience Required:  Students and/or Professionals may apply
This is a rich, hands-on volunteering and internship experience, offering the chance to participate in two distinct settings:

Setting 1: Veterinary Clinic & Laboratory
Work alongside five veterinarians as they conduct diagnoses, surgeries, post-surgery recovery care, vaccinations, and control procedures. You will also gain valuable knowledge of laboratory blood-based testing procedures, deepening your understanding of veterinary medicine.

Setting 2: Corazón Animal Shelter (Dogs & Cats)
Located just outside Chinchiná, Corazón Animal is a shelter for abandoned dogs and cats. Many of these animals will live out their lives in this private facility, supported entirely by volunteers. With your help, these animals can receive the care they need to live healthier, longer lives.

As a volunteer or intern, you'll have the chance to experience all aspects of shelter management, working with a population of 70-90 dogs and cats. Key responsibilities include:
  • Animal Care & Health: Assessing the animal population, conducting health check-ups, and managing health care and nutrition.
  • Adoption & Campaigns: Assisting with adoption campaigns and community outreach to raise awareness.
  • Shelter Operations: Supporting the facility's upkeep, including building maintenance, volunteer management, and fundraising efforts.
  • Veterinary Support: Assisting in medical care and surgeries under the guidance of professional veterinarians.

​This is an incredible opportunity to be fully involved in animal welfare, contributing to the care, rehabilitation, and long-term health of the animals.
How to Join the Animal Rescue Program:
We’ve made the application process simple and straightforward. Follow these steps to start your journey with Minga House:
  1. Complete the Online Application
    Begin by filling out our online application form. This will help us learn more about your background, experience, and interests.
  2. Receive Program Information
    After submitting your application, we’ll send you detailed information about the program, including what to expect, what to prepare for, and how you can make the most of your experience.
  3. Schedule a Video Conference
    Next, you’ll schedule a video call with our team. During this meeting, we’ll discuss your goals, answer any questions, and finalize any specific requirements for your participation.
  4. Complete Payment
    Once you’re ready to confirm your spot, you’ll receive a PayPal link to securely complete the payment for the program.
  5. Receive Your Planning Guide & Invitation Letter
    After payment, we’ll send you a comprehensive planning guide along with additional information to help you prepare for your arrival. This guide includes everything you’ll need to know—from packing tips to local transportation and cultural insights. We’ll also send your official invitation letter, which is essential for your visa and travel preparations.
  6. Get Ready for Your Adventure!
    With all the logistics taken care of, you’re all set to begin this exciting journey. The community is ready to welcome you, and we’re here to ensure you have a meaningful, impactful, and memorable experience!
download more info
ONLINE APPLICATION
Program Cost:  $45/day (USD) - Housing included at Minga House!
Discount offered if stay is longer than 30 days or if you share lodging.

Refund Policy:

There is no refund for the first 30 days of programming. 
Why?  Because much unrecoverable staff time & effort is invested prior to your arrival to plan your programming.
 
 


Additional Expenses - USD
  • Food:  $5-15/day regardless if you eat out daily or prepare your own food in our shared kitchen, depending on your diet.
  • Airport Pick-up & Drop-Off:  $40-42 paid directly to the taxi. (we connect you to approved drivers) 45 min ride to Chinchina. ​
  • Medical Insurance: Not required, but highly recommended while traveling abroad.  MHF is not responsible for your care.
  • Optional - Recreational & Cultural Excursions vary from Free to $100 USD each, most are inexpensive! See Self-Guided Tours
  • Optional - Personal Interpreter or Aide: $10-30/day - see college students available for contract at bottom of Team page

Volunteering & Internships Catalogue
Online Spanish Level Test - Free​

Trip Planning Guide
​Fundraising Tools
Travel Medical Insurance
Coffee Region - Travel Guides
FAQ

Minga House Foundation's facilities are 100% NON-SMOKING and 100% NO ILLEGAL DRUGS

online application

Reviews

We love the concept of Minga House Foundation!  
Travel with a purpose! Colombia's Coffee Region is one of the most beautiful places on Earth; and Colombia is the 2nd most bio-diverse country in the world, next to Brazil. I love Colombia,
​my year-round Spring weather paradise."

Contact Us

Minga House Foundation
Carrera 9 #11-34
​Chinchina, Caldas, Colombia 176020
[email protected]

Email Us
  • MINGA
    • Policy
  • Volunteers
    • Community Health
    • Emergency Medicine
    • Sports and Fitness
    • Animal Rescue
    • English Teacher >
      • Chinchina Bilingue >
        • Debate Competition
        • English Conversation Group
        • English Songs Festival
        • Spelling Bee
    • Children
    • Youth
    • Seniors >
      • Senderos de Omaira Foundation
    • Construction
    • NonProfit Management
  • Students
    • Graduate Field Courses
  • Teachers
    • Teach USA >
      • TeachUSA TESTIMONIALS
      • Educación Especial Bilingüe
    • Teach Colombia >
      • Free Teacher Onboarding
  • Families
  • Our Team
    • Facilities >
      • Glen Galindo
      • Employment Opportunities
    • Testimonials
    • Work with MINGA
  • Donate