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Sponsoring an animal is enormously beneficial for the organisation you are contributing to, and it also makes a unique gift for yourself or someone special. There are a number of options to consider if you are looking to adopt a animal.
Animal Adoption in Zoos
Adopting a zoo animal has the benefit that you or the recipient of the gift can visit your chosen animal. Your sponsorship will contribute to the running costs of the zoo, the development of new and better enclosures, and often aids endangered species breeding programmes.
The cost of animal adoption and what you receive in return will vary between zoos. For instance, London zoo offers packages from £20. A basic package will give you a full colour picture of your animal, a certificate, 1 free entry ticket and a magazine subscription. A larger donation will bring perks such as a private tour of the zoo.
Adopting an Animal from a Farm
If, for example, you are considering sponsorship on behalf of a child but there are no zoos near you, then you may find local attractions such as a city farm offer animal adoption schemes. This is a lovely way to help with conservation programmes, contribute to the feeding and care of the animals, and allows your child to visit their adoptee.
As with zoos, prices for animal adoption and what you receive can vary widely. But as a guide you can expect to pay around £40, depending on the size or how exotic the animal is. Perks from adoption may include complimentary entry tickets, a profile and pictures relating to the adopted animal and often a plaque acknowledging the sponsorship.
Adopt a Wild Animal
Organisations such as the WWF allow you to adopt a wild animal for yourself or others. Prices start at around £2.50 per month and you will receive an adoption pack with goodies such as a soft toy of the chosen animal, a species profile, a print of the animal, a greetings card and a newsletter subscription.
The animals in these schemes are often under threat from extinction - your sponsorship can help in conserving their habitat or protecting them from local threats, such as poachers.
Charitable ‘Buy an Animal’ Schemes
Another alternative is purchasing an animal in a scheme such as Oxfam Unwrapped. For a one off donation, you or the gift’s recipient will receive a card, a voucher describing the animal and the gift of your choice (such as fair-trade chocolates). The money will go towards purchasing your chosen animal – such as a chicken, donkey or llama – for an impoverished community. Prices are variable – for instance a brood of chickens will cost you £10 or a goat will set you back £24.
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Animal Adoption Schemes