COMPASSION IN THE COMMUNITY: VETS, DONKEYS & DOGS

Michael Terrell
Nov 7
3 min read

Updated: Nov 11

Conservation Beyond the Reserves

By Day 8, the experience shifted in a way none of us expected. We left behind the wildlife reserves and stepped into the heart of nearby villages, places where conservation, community, and survival are woven tightly together. This wasn’t about big game drives or rhino sightings. It was about the working animals that families depend on every single day: donkeys that pull carts, dogs that guard livestock, and small herds of goats or cattle that mean the difference between stability and hunger.

Partnering with the skilled team from ARRC (Animal Relief for Rural Communities), we stepped into a different side of conservation, one most visitors never see. Throughout the day, we helped provide vaccinations, deworming, and medical treatment for many of the community's stray dogs. Some dogs arrived heartbreakingly thin, others with wounds left untreated for too long. But what stood out most was how patiently they waited for care, and how deeply the families cared for them, despite having so few resources themselves.

ARRC

The team from ARRC led hands-on training for local families, teaching practical animal husbandry that can dramatically improve these animals' health long after we leave. Simple changes like better nutrition, early care for injuries, and parasite prevention can go a long way when you depend on these animals every single day.

It was emotional for many of us. Conservation often feels like it’s about wild animals far away. But here, it became personal. Because when you strengthen communities living alongside wildlife, you build stronger allies for conservation itself. Healthy animals support healthy families, and healthy families support protected ecosystems.

We are deeply grateful for the compassionate, skillful leadership of ARRC, who work year-round to bridge veterinary care, education, and community partnerships as a vital part of true conservation.

The Importance of Community Involvement

In our journey, we learned that conservation is not just about protecting wildlife; it’s about empowering local communities. The people living near these reserves often have the most to lose and gain from conservation efforts. By involving them, we create a sustainable future for both wildlife and humans.

Empowering Local Voices

We must listen to the voices of those who live alongside wildlife. Their knowledge and experiences are invaluable. Engaging with local communities ensures that conservation efforts are relevant and effective. Together, we can create strategies that benefit both wildlife and people.

The Role of Education

Education plays a crucial role in conservation. By educating local communities and visitors alike, we can foster a deeper understanding of the ecosystems we cherish. Workshops, school programs, and community events can inspire the next generation of conservationists.

A Collective Effort

Our experiences in Southern Africa have shown us that conservation is a collective effort. It requires the dedication of rangers, the support of local communities, and the involvement of passionate individuals. Together, we can make a difference and protect the incredible biodiversity that Southern Africa has to offer.

Let’s continue this journey together, ensuring that the beauty of our natural world endures for generations to come!

How To Get Involved

None of this would have been possible without the long-standing expertise and partnerships of Shinzela Reserve, the amazing SFW team, and the warm welcome from the people of Hoedspruit, who opened their world to us.

Take a deeper look into the sights and stories from the opening days of our Conservation Experience in the video below.