Our trips in 2008 are all over the world and range from 1 week to a couple of months in duration. We have projects working with horses, cows, dogs, cats and wildlife. Our teams are open to everyone not just veterinary trained personnel.

Upcoming trips are posted in the Members section of the website. Postings include some brief details of the trip and the specific volunteer requirements, along with a link to the associated charity's page on the WVS site. You can express interest in a project via the e-mail link on the relevant trip page.

Once you have expressed interest in a trip your name will be added to the interest list for that trip and Hannah, our International Projects Co-ordinator, will contact you by e-mail with further details. An introductory pack is then sent out containing an application form, a copy of our terms and conditions and some more specific information about the trip.

Teams are selected according to their relevant experience and skills, for difficult to organise trips selection may also be based on logistics. Where several members fit the relevant criteria for a certain trip places will generally be decided on a first come, first serve basis.

The cost of participating on a trip varies greatly and will depend on which trip you are volunteering for. We commonly pay half the flight costs to European destinations, whilst accomodation for the duration of your trip is provided by the associated charity. Meals are often also provided by the associated charity. We generally provide equipment, drugs and other resources to take with you. Details regarding the cost of a trip can be obtained from the WVS office. We are also happy to give advice on raising money towards your trip.

If you have a place on one of our teams this will appear in the 'My Trips' section of the Members page. On your return we require a short trip report outlining your experiences, which you can submit using the link that will appear in the 'My Trips' section. We post these reports on the site, along with any pictures you can provide, in order to publicise the work of WVS and its associated charities. This publicity increases awareness of the work you have done, helps us raise funds for future trips and plays an important educational role.

Minimum age for all of our trips is 18 years and it is important for our volunteers to appreciate that some trips may only be suitable for experienced members. Several of our projects are in difficult areas in developing countries with minimal facilities available, as a result teams need to be selected responsibly. However, many of our trips are in easily accessible areas of Europe where there is ample opportunity for everyone to get involved in helping us one way or another!

For information on some of our past trips click here

Even if there are no trips listed for the specific project or charity that you are interested in, feel free to contact the WVS office to express your interest and we will make a note of your details for future reference.