For those with the relevant qualifications and an eagerness to learn, volunteering at our Chengdu sanctuary can be a life changing experience. Esta LeCren, a 27 year-old veterinary nurse from Christchurch, New Zealand shares her experiences having spent time on site earlier last year.

I first caught a glimpse of Jill Robinson on television. I had not heard of Animals Asia until that moment. I researched the foundation thoroughly and thought the difference they were making in China was incredible, not only with the bear bile industry but with animal welfare in general.

To my delight I saw they were in need of qualified volunteers, I had just graduated as a vet nurse and had a strong sense to do something worthwhile with my time.

Three months later I was on a flight to China, with no idea of the life changing experience I was about to embark on. I didn't know what China would be like, seeing it on the Internet is no substitute for being there and seeing it yourself. It really is an amazing country.

We arrived at the centre around midday. I was excited and eager to get inside and see these wonderful moon bears for myself. They did not disappoint. I locked eyes with a handsome bear, who I later learned was named Dong Fong Hai Wai. He just sat there, a mere arms length away, watching me watch him. I couldn't believe I was so close to him; my first encounter with a moon bear is a memory I will never forget.

I was introduced to some of the many staff, a bunch of dedicated and friendly individuals all working toward the same goal of caring for the health and enrichment of these bears.

Many bears touched my heart during my time at the centre, one in particular named Frodo. Her mobility was decreasing as those years spent in a cruel cage took its toll on her bones. She could no longer move the rear of her body and had to drag herself around by her front legs. She was my patient during a week she spent in hospital. I was surprised how incredibly trusting she was of me, despite years of being confined and treated poorly by humans. It was as if she didn't hold any resentment towards people. When she ate her medication off a spoon, she liked to lick the it clean, ensuring not a drop of condensed milk or jam was left – of course, I always gave her extra.

After a thorough examination by the vet, including x-rays, it was clear a CT scan was needed to ensure all possible options were covered.

With a sleeping Frodo, a vet team and a bear moving team we made our way on the back of a truck to a local hospital in Chengdu to use their facilities for a CT scan. It was a hectic day to say the least.

Unfortunately the results were not good, there was no recovery possible for Frodo, the damage had been done. I was angry and sad. It wasn't fair her life was cut short because humans had used her.

While she was under anaesthetic, members of the team who worked with her during her time at the centre came and said good-bye and were with her in her final moments. She was free – no longer in pain.

The cemetery at the centre [pictured below] is a peaceful place, full of individual graves, all with their names and crescent shaped plaques. It's a respectful and touching resting place for a beautiful animal. Being a volunteer at Animals Asia is incredibly rewarding. Not only is the hands-on experience priceless, seeing the bears being absolutely content is heart warming.

I thought my time there was going to be a once in a life time opportunity, but it turns out I cannot stop thinking about the bears and the work Animals Asia are doing and I am booked in to go again.

I cannot wait.

Animals Asia’s Chengdu sanctuary accepts international volunteers for Behavioural Management and Veterinary Nurse roles. For more information on an experience that could change your life, visit our site.

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