Volunteer Experience Report at Finca Noah (Michelle)

Volunteer Experience Report at Finca Noah by Michelle 06.07.2025-20.07.2025

I had been looking forward to these two weeks for such a long time; and finally it was here 😊
I arrived at Finca Noah on Sunday afternoon. Not a cloud in the sky and accordingly it was scorching hot.
With a beaming smile, I was warmly welcomed by Farah and the many sweet dogs. Since they were on their morning round and had their hands full, Farah showed me Casa Jeannine and then I had time to settle in. Right from arrival, I noticed how clean and well-maintained everything is.
In the afternoon, Farah showed me the entire estate and explained the daily routine. After that, I got to meet all the animals. I was amazed at how trusting and affectionate the dogs and many cats are. What I think is wonderful and didn't expect: ALL the animals have names!
Around 18:00, the evening round began. I was allowed to help Nadine with the dogs and cats. Everyone got their food, the enclosures were cleaned, and there was still time left for cuddles with the affectionate cats. After that, we took care of the deer Coco, the pony Rambo, and the sheep.
Monday morning started at 7:00 AM. We had to hurry a bit during the morning round, because 70 tonnes of dog and cat food from Switzerland was being delivered that morning!
I received a brief introduction on how everything needed to be cleaned, and it quickly became clear how much value Farah places on precision and care. Everything has its place here.
Once all the animals were well taken care of, the truck was already at the gate. Hand in hand and with fantastic teamwork, we unpacked all the food, sorted it into the container, and distributed it. In that heat, it was really exhausting and we all were grateful for a short break before continuing with the evening round.
In the following days, I also got to meet Anna, Marion, and Gina, the volunteer helpers on site. The whole team is wonderfully kind, likeable, and open, so I felt warmly welcomed from day one.
It was so beautiful to see how relaxed and content the animals are able to live at Finca Noah. They enjoyed the extra attention and cuddles from me. During my time at Finca Noah, I grew to love the animals very much.
Over these 14 days, it also became clear to me how much hard work goes into all of this. I deeply admire Farah, Nadine, and Juan for the work they do every single day for the animals.
Thank you so much for these wonderful and unforgettable two weeks!