Last Word

Some lessons learned from the World Vets Guatemala experience:
*Test sunglasses with both sunscreen and sweat prior to taking them on this kind of trip, to avoid purple streaks on face.
*Plan on using an ATM to get local currency- most people don't bring piles of dollar bills to trade, since ATMs are getting more and more popular. Tell your bank where you are going, and when, before leaving the country.
*Take the extra day off work after getting back. Shifting gears takes more than a couple of hours.
*Schedule long layovers when customs is involved. Bring a second photo ID in case you have lost weight or cut your hair since the passport photo was taken.
*Make friends with people who take pictures!
*Bring printed instructions, in the local language, of where you need to be and when.
*Be open to trying things (activities, foods, languages) that you aren't familiar with - it's an adventure!
*Beware of random sharp things on the sides of kayaks.
*Bring hair gel, because even if you don't use it, someone else will want to borrow some.
and...
Holy Crap - Go on World Vets Trips! This was an amazing adventure! We really made a difference in the lives of the animals (and people) we went to help. We learned new skills (even the surgeons learned new techniques). We made new friends, and appreciated new experiences (I loved sitting at the front of a water bus). The adventure was incredible. I went on an amazing vacation, and came back not feeling selfish or spoiled. I renewed my sense of purpose in what I do. I recharged by working harder and doing more than I would have if I'd stayed home. And just being in a different culture, seeing what makes us the same and different at the same time, is always eye opening, and leads to self-reflection. Also, my team was amazing, and we just had fun being silly.
So go on: www.worldvets.org. You don't need veterinary skills to volunteer and go on a trip. You don't have to go on a trip to help this happen. World Vets is always looking for donations of supplies - a few dollars, a few leashes, a few minutes of your time, talking to someone about what we do. It is totally worth it.
Signing out for now,
Krayzy Kat Lady