Volunteering in Portugal - Caring for Rescued Animals
by: Natucate
Come join a team of international volunteers and local animal welfare experts in a pioneer project set in the vast countryside of sunny Portugal. You will live and work at an animal and plant sanctuary in the heart of the Santarém district, designed as a haven for stray, neglected, or mistreated animals such as dogs, cats, horses, sheep, goats, chickens, chinchillas, rabbits, turkeys, and turtle doves. You will help with the day-to-day care of the animals, planting native trees and shrubs to help rebuild natural ecosystems along the 27 hectares of sanctuary land, and supporting the resocialization and rehoming of once stray or mistreated animals. Together with international and local volunteers and professionals, you will take on daily tasks such as cleaning the animal enclosures, training and socializing the rescued animals, as well as maintaining the forest and the sanctuary property. Your work will greatly contribute to the well-being of the land and all of its animal residents, both wild and domesticated.
Come join a team of international volunteers and local animal welfare experts in a pioneer project set in the vast countryside of sunny Portugal. You will live and work at an animal and plant sanctuary in the heart of the Santarém district, designed as a haven for stray, neglected, or mistreated animals such as dogs, cats, horses, sheep, goats, chickens, chinchillas, rabbits, turkeys, and turtle doves. You will help with the day-to-day care of the animals, planting native trees and shrubs to help rebuild natural ecosystems along the 27 hectares of sanctuary land, and supporting the resocialization and rehoming of once stray or mistreated animals. Together with international and local volunteers and professionals, you will take on daily tasks such as cleaning the animal enclosures, training and socializing the rescued animals, as well as maintaining the forest and the sanctuary property. Your work will greatly contribute to the well-being of the land and all of its animal residents, both wild and domesticated.
Program Highlights
Care for animals that have been rescued from neglect or abuse.
Gain knowledge about species-appropriate animal keeping.
Support the restoration of the natural habitat for native plants and wildlife.
Enjoy a stay in glorious, sun-drenched Portugal—close to the city of Santarém.
Contribute to the adoption of stray, abandoned, or rescued animals.
Quick Details
- Portugal
- 1-2 Weeks
- 2-4 Weeks
- Animal Welfare
- Conservation
- Environment
- Reforestation
- Tree Planting
- All Nationalities
Program Reviews
Hear what past participants have to say about the programs
Overall Rating
Total Reviews
First volunteering experience
August 01, 2023by: Zoé PUSSACQ - FranceIt was my first time volunteering for an organisation, and it was so great! People are lovely in the sanctuary, animals are well taking care of, and participating to this is really benefiting! It is only the beginning for this sanctuary, and I can't wait to go back soon to see all the changes and improvement of the place, and helping again these amazing people.
Program Details
Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know
Locations
- Portugal
Types and Subjects
- Causes
- Animal Welfare
- Conservation
- Environment
- Reforestation
- Tree Planting
Availability
Years Offered: Year Round
- 1-2 Weeks
- 2-4 Weeks
Age Requirement
21+
Guidelines
All Nationalities
Starts At
Program Cost Includes
- Accommodation / Housing for Program Duration
- Pre-Departure Orientation
- Training
- Assistance Booking Travel
- Emergency Support
Accommodation Options
- Group living
- Guest House
Salary & Compensation
No salary
Qualifications & Experience
- English
- Portuguese
Language Skills Required
- Any/All Education Levels Accepted
Accepted Education Levels
Application Procedures
- Other
- Written Application
- Phone/Video Interview
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens after my arrival?
Once you arrive at the property entrance, you will be welcomed by a staff member. More volunteers may join on the same start date. Once all the new participants have arrived, the team will introduce themselves, give you basic knowledge about the sanctuary, and you will be given an orientation tour. After the orientation, you can take some time to get to know the other participants, get comfortable in your room, and familiarize yourself.
What are my main tasks/activities?
- Cleaning animal enclosures
- Feeding animals
- Socialization of resident animals
- Walking dogs
- Removing invasive species
- Planting trees
- Taking care of the flower garden
- Property maintenance and repairs
- Bush clearing
- Forest maintenance
- Deep cleaning of the volunteer accommodation is offered weekly, but volunteers will do their part
How big is the group?
Up to 6 international volunteers at a time can work on this project. In addition, two staff members are on-site during the day. Occasionally, you will be supported by local volunteers who do not live in the volunteer house.
What does the accommodation look like?
Room types:
- a single room
- a double room
- shared room with two bunk beds
The double room is usually only occupied by one person or couples traveling together.
In the shared space, all genders are accommodated together. The washing machine, one bathroom, and kitchen are shared by all volunteers. The kitchen includes a fridge, stove, oven, and microwave. The living room is also a shared space and has a TV with Netflix and games.
Is it possible to receive vegetarian/vegan meals?
A vegetarian diet is required. No meat or fish products may be consumed. All diets that take this into account are welcome. As you are responsible for your own diet, it is up to you to manage any allergies you may have. However, we do ask that you inform the Natucate team of any known allergies.
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