Little things blog post from Lou, volunteer at The Reptile Academy
I have always loved animals and have kept pets all my life. After finishing school, I went on to complete animal care at college with dreams of becoming a veterinary nurse, but for various reasons I started full time employment that didn’t involve animals.
Cut to 2025, when I decided to look for volunteering opportunities in Dorset for my day off – I wanted to support the community, learn new skills and do something different to my day job. I was overjoyed when I saw an opportunity to become a volunteer reptile ranger at The Reptile Academy near Cranborne!
I started volunteering at the Academy in September and am one of several volunteers. I support across a variety of areas including animal husbandry, animal feeding and watching the four tortoises enjoy a walk around the outdoor paddock. I also support with alternative provision SEND students and work experience students. It is wonderful to see the joy on children’s faces when they are with the reptiles. I really love the iguana walkthrough enclosure! I feel like a kid when I am around animals.
Volunteering has been positive for my mental wellbeing and is something I look forward to on Fridays, which is helping me to stay well by boosting my mood. It feels good to know that I am helping the local community and that my support is valued, whilst also increasing my skills and knowledge of reptiles.
Caring for animals has great benefits. Walking my dog at lunchtime gets me away from my desk and moving, which is great for my physical and mental health. I don’t have time to go to the gym, so walking is my exercise. Walks don’t stop over winter, so it’s all about wrapping up warm, staying dry and looking for the beauty in nature. I would recommend to everyone to give a little animal care.
The Reptile Academy helps young people build confidence through hands-on animal care and learning.
Whether you’re exploring a new passion or finding your place, our community is here to support you. Working with animals is a great way to stay well.
