Gap year programs that involve working with animals?

I'd love to spend my gap year working with animals. Are there any specific programs or organizations that offer structured opportunities for hands-on experience with wildlife or farm animals?

There are indeed numerous organizations that offer gap year programs centered around working with animals. Here are a few:

1. Global Vision International runs various conservation programs that allow participants to play a hands-on role in the protection of wildlife around the world. Past participants have worked in locations like Costa Rica gathering data to protect sea turtles, assisted with wildlife conservation efforts in South Africa's Limpopo Province, and more.

2. Projects Abroad also offers numerous volunteer opportunities that allow participants to work with animals. They have projects in locations such as Argentina, Botswana, Costa Rica, Madagascar, Mexico, Peru, the Philippines, and South Africa, working with animals like sloths, monkeys, elephants, sharks, and more.

3. The Great Projects focuses on volunteering projects that support wildlife conservation. They have both short-term and long-term projects in various locations around the globe dealing with a wide range of animal species.

4. Loop Abroad has veterinary science programs in Thailand and South Africa where participants can gain practical experience with a range of animals from elephants to cheetahs.

Most of these programs are especially geared towards students interested in future careers in veterinary medicine, animal science, conservation, or related fields. They offer unique opportunities to gain practical experience, while also contributing to meaningful conservation efforts.

Please note that each program varies in terms of costs, accommodation arrangements, age requirements, and duration. Many of these programs can be quite competitive, so ensure that you plan well in advance and carefully research the application process for each to increase your chances of being accepted.