Animal Shelter Volunteer Greece – Help Rescue Dogs & Cats

Volunteer at an Animal Sanctuary (Greece)

Greece

If you’re looking for a truly immersive animal shelter volunteer Greece experience, this opportunity offers the chance to live and work alongside rescued animals in a peaceful rural setting. Volunteers become part of daily life at a small shelter that cares for dogs, cats, and farm animals, while gaining practical skills and insight into animal welfare in Greece. The shelter is open-concept, with no cages—dogs roam freely in compatible groups, creating a unique and dynamic environment. This is more than just volunteering; it’s a chance to make a meaningful impact while forming close connections with animals in need.

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Animal Shelter Volunteer Greece: Tasks & Roles

As part of the animal shelter volunteer Greece team, each day begins early with essential care tasks such as feeding, cleaning, and monitoring the health of the animals. Volunteers help administer medication and are trained to recognise signs of illness or distress. Daily routines also involve walking and playing with the dogs, observing behaviour, and offering companionship. In the afternoons, volunteers may assist with additional feeding, cleaning, and helping to graze the shelter’s goats—keeping them safe and away from nearby crops or roads. Tasks vary slightly with the seasons, offering a chance to experience the rhythm of rural life and the beauty of sunrise and sunset in the Greek countryside. Every volunteer is introduced to the individual personalities of the dogs and is supported with guidance on safe and effective handling, especially in group settings.

Animal Shelter Volunteer Greece: Living & Getting There

Accommodation is provided in a simple but comfortable guesthouse next to the shelter. The space includes a double and a single bedroom, a toilet, a fridge, and a washing machine, and is shared with six friendly foster cats. Though there’s no TV or radio, the house has 24/7 WiFi access, offering a peaceful retreat after a rewarding day of volunteering. Located in a quiet, non-residential area, the shelter is just a 20-minute drive from Thessaloniki Airport (SKG), and pick-up can be arranged upon request. A moderate level of physical fitness is necessary for tasks such as carrying buckets of water or food, and experience with animals—especially dogs—is highly recommended, as they roam freely and may greet you enthusiastically. Volunteers are expected to keep their own space tidy and bring season-appropriate clothing. Winters may be cold and wet, while summers are hot and humid, with much time spent outdoors. Durable, supportive footwear is a must throughout the year.

Animal Shelter Volunteer Greece: What Else

This animal shelter volunteer Greece placement involves a five-day work week with two rest days, which are scheduled flexibly with the team. Although the number of dogs may seem daunting at first, volunteers quickly adjust thanks to the welcoming environment, structured safety guidance, and the rewarding nature of the work. With over 100 animals and a passionate founder on site, this is a rare opportunity to deeply engage with animal rescue efforts while surrounded by natural beauty. Volunteers leave not only with practical skills but also with unforgettable memories and lasting emotional bonds.

Accommodation for Before and After Your Stay

Your trip may not be all about a work exchange – you might want to spend some time exploring the country. You may need to book accommodation either before you arrive on site with your host, or after your stay with them ends. Whatever the reason, check out some independent accommodation options on the map below.

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