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IVHQ Animal Care Program in San Jose, Costa Rica

by: International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]

Add first reviewVerifiedSince 2007

Join the Animal Care program in San José, Costa Rica with International Volunteer HQ and help support local animal welfare efforts while living in a vibrant Latin American city. Volunteers work with shelters and rescue centres caring for dogs and cats from under-resourced communities. You’ll help with daily feeding, cleaning, basic care tasks, socialisation and enrichment for animals in need. This placement is great for animal lovers, gap-year travellers, students or anyone wanting meaningful volunteering abroad. Your fully hosted experience includes airport pick-up, a thorough orientation, shared volunteer house or homestay accommodation depending on placement, two meals daily and 24/7 support from the local team. Before departure you receive guidance from your IVHQ Program Manager and access to training tools to help you feel prepared. Programs begin every Monday. Volunteers become part of an international community and have the opportunity to explore Costa Rica’s culture, city life, nature and surrounding landscapes while contributing to animal welfare and making a positive impact.

Program Highlights

Programs start every Monday.

Duration from 1 to 24 weeks.

Volunteer 4 hours per day caring for abandoned or stray dogs, cats and other domestic animals at welfare organisations and vet clinics in San José

Duties may include bathing and grooming animals, feeding, cleaning cages or kennels, walking and playing with animals, assisting with basic care or neutering/spaying, and helping rehome animals.

Includes airport pickup, orientation, local homestay accommodation, meals, and 24/7 in-country support.

Quick Details

Locations:
  • San Jose, Costa Rica
Starts At: $300-600
Availability
Year(s) Offered: Year RoundDuration:
  • 1-2 Weeks
  • 2-4 Weeks
  • 3-6 Months
  • 5-8 Weeks
  • 9-12 Weeks
Age Requirement: 18+
Types & Subjects
Causes:
  • Animal Welfare
Guidelines:
  • All Nationalities
See all program details
Last Updated: May 20, 2026

Awards

Top Rated Provider Volunteer Abroad 20252025 Finalist - Innovative Volunteer Abroad ProgramNotable Mention - GoAbroad Top Rated Volunteer Abroad Providers 2024Top Rated Provider 2023 - Volunteer AbroadTop Rated Volunteer Abroad Organization 2022Zero CarbonNotable Mention 2021 - Volunteer Abroad

Program Details

Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know

Locations

  • San Jose, Costa Rica

Types and Subjects

  • Causes
  • Animal Welfare

Availability

Years Offered: Year Round

Duration:
  • 1-2 Weeks
  • 2-4 Weeks
  • 3-6 Months
  • 5-8 Weeks
  • 9-12 Weeks

Age Requirement

18+

Guidelines

All Nationalities

This Program is also open to Couples, Families, Group

Starts At

$300-600

Program Cost Includes

  • Accommodation / Housing for Program Duration
  • All Program Activity Costs
  • Wifi Costs
  • Weekday Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
  • Weekend Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
  • Airport Transfer (Pick-Up)
  • On-Site / In-Country Staff Support
  • Certificate of Completion

Accommodation Options

  • Dormitory
  • Home-stays

Qualifications & Experience

      Accepted Education Levels

    • Any/All Education Levels Accepted

    Application Procedures

    • Online Application

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What does the IVHQ Animal Care program in San José involve?

    On the Animal Care program in San José you assist local animal-welfare organisations and vet clinics to rehabilitate and re-home abandoned dogs and cats.

    * Care for animals at shelters and vet clinics.
    * Assist with feeding, bathing, walking and play.
    * Support wound care, neutering and community education.

    When can I start and how long can I volunteer in the program?

    The Animal Care program in San José offers start dates every Monday and allows volunteers to stay for durations from one to twenty-four weeks.

    * Start dates available every Monday.
    * Duration options from 1 to 24 weeks.
    * Volunteer duties last around four hours each day.

    What are the eligibility requirements for the Animal Care program?

    Volunteers aged sixteen and older can join the Animal Care program in San José and those over eighteen must provide a criminal background check according to the IVHQ page.

    * Volunteers aged 16+ accepted.
    * Over 18 must submit a criminal background check.
    * English language skills required and insurance must be secured.

    Where will I live and what support do I receive on the program?

    The Animal Care program in San José includes local homestay accommodation, airport pick-up and a full orientation provided by IVHQ’s team.

    * Homestay accommodation in San José included.
    * Airport pick-up included as part of your program fee.
    * Orientation covers culture, language, safety and project details.

    Why volunteer on the Animal Care program in San José with IVHQ?

    Volunteering on this program in San José provides hands-on experience caring for abandoned animals while immersing yourself in Costa Rican culture and developing personal skills.

    * Gain experience caring for dogs and cats in welfare settings.
    * Practice your Spanish and communication skills.
    * Explore Costa Rica during weekends and free time.

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    International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]

    International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]

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    Ready to Learn More?

    Join the Animal Care program in San José, Costa Rica with International Volunteer HQ and help support local animal welfare efforts while living in a vibrant Latin American city. Volunteers work with shelters and rescue centres caring for dogs and cats from under-resourced communities. You’ll help with daily feeding, cleaning, basic care tasks, socialisation and enrichment for animals in need. This placement is great for animal lovers, gap-year travellers, students or anyone wanting meaningful volunteering abroad. Your fully hosted experience includes airport pick-up, a thorough orientation, shared volunteer house or homestay accommodation depending on placement, two meals daily and 24/7 support from the local team. Before departure you receive guidance from your IVHQ Program Manager and a...

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