Decided to volunteer because you always say “One day I’ll go to [this charity] and help out” but very few actually do. I knew briefly that LSPCA existed since I knew about Veterinarians Without Borders (Sweden) so I decided to go there. On my first visit, I was quickly made to feel like a member of the clinic undertaking consults and surgery for paying clients but I enjoyed the Spay Day and Farm Clinics [field work] the most!
I decided to come to LSPCA because I wanted to contribute my professional skills to a country where animal welfare is poor but at the same time be able to travel and experience a new culture. My favorite part of the placement at LSPCA was the field work because it is such a unique style of providing veterinary care which I can’t experience back home, and it always gave me a great sense of achievement at the end of each day.
Before I came to LSPCA I was worried that I would be a burden as I didn’t have much handling skills and even less practical veterinary skills, but the whole team, especially the clinic, were so patient with me! I really enjoyed the spay days and farm clinics, but I enjoyed surgery the most. Both of the veterinary surgeons taught me skills I have only read about in books; it was amazing!
As I will be studying to be a vet in the coming academic year (2016-2017), I came to LSPCA during my gap year to gain experience in a different country to Norway. Due to the timing of my placement, I was able to get involved with LSPCA’s annual rabies campaign which, even with the long days, was so rewarding and a great way to see the real Lilongwe.
You'll find us in Kanengo-Roberts/Area 28, on the outskirts of Lilongwe city. When driving from the city center/Lilongwe town on the M1, just passed Area 30 police, turn at Total filling station, then take your second turn to the right, then first turn left, and about 300 metres you'll see our signpost.
Monday to Friday 07:30-16:30
Saturday 08:00-12:00
Sunday 10:00 - 12:00
+265 994 682 900 - Emergency (24/7)