Ask the Volunteer: Julie

Julie has always loved animals, big and small, horses especially. In 2020, she retired and decided with her husband, that they were going to move from England to Spain.

She then found the Trex Andalucia Sanctuary on Facebook and began to follow us, as she knew that volunteering would be something that she would want to do when they moved.

In 2022, Julie moved to Mojácar and contacted Jean at Trex to ask about volunteering. She is now a volunteer at Trex and tells us that she loves every minute here and that it is great to spend time with the horses, goats, dogs, and cats.

Our Volunteer Julie

We asked her the following questions about her time volunteering with us at Trex, and here are her answers.

How did you find out about Trex Andalucia?

I found out about Trex Andalucia on Facebook. It came up as something that I might be interested in and I followed them from that day.

What made you want to volunteer at Trex?

Just the love of animals, horses. It was always going to be something that I wanted to do, after retirement when I had more time to give.

What kind of things do you do at Trex?

I mainly feed the horses, goats, chickens, and peacocks in the morning and obviously clear up the paddocks. Just making sure that Trex is as tidy as it can be.

What is your favourite thing about the Trex Andalucia Sanctuary?

Spending time with the horses. I get to groom them as well sometimes. I consider it a real privilege.

Do you fear any of the animals in particular? Does volunteering help this fear?

I don’t have any fear really. You obviously have to be cautious sometimes and just be safe.

What benefits do you get out of volunteering personally?

I benefit from working at Trex in many ways. Being outside, in the sun and in the open spaces, with wonderful views. I find it very therapeutic, calming, and peaceful. Good for the mind.

Do you have any suggestions for us to improve our volunteering program?

I don’t think I can suggest any improvements. We all work as a team and help each other where needed.

Do you feel that there are other areas within the Sanctuary you can help with?

I am willing to do whatever is needed on that day, every bit helps. Even if it isn’t animal related.

What do you think our next project should be?

More themed events, like the ones we already do at Halloween and Christmas, maybe Easter. The Barn Dance is a great idea.

The hardest question of all is; Who is your favourite animal at Trex and why?

Difficult one! Fred is obviously gorgeous and friendly, and I always try to spoil him a bit. But I love all the horses and goats. They all have their very unique personalities,  some a little bit naughty!!!! And I definitely have a soft spot for Ozzie, the German shepherd, and Jacko, the parrot, who always has a lot to say for himself.

Want to Volunteer with us?

We are so fortunate to have lovely helpers like Julie.

If you would like to volunteer with us, or simply want to come and meet the animals just get in touch!