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Brilliant 4.71rating (174)

Help Stray Dogs

location
2 - 24 weeks  ·  Age 18 - 50+
Verified

Highlights

  • Be a voice for those who do not have one. Help animals in need!
  • Bolster your resume with international volunteer experience, showcasing your commitment to global impact and animal welfare.
  • Expand your horizons, building invaluable intercultural skills through meaningful connections and shared experiences.

Highlights

  • Be a voice for those who do not have one. Help animals in need!
  • Bolster your resume with international volunteer experience, showcasing your commitment to global impact and animal welfare.
  • Expand your horizons, building invaluable intercultural skills through meaningful connections and shared experiences.
  • Forge lasting friendships with fellow volunteers, united to make a difference.
  • Immerse in the allure of Santiago de Chile, a modern metropolis brimming with endless attractions and a vibrant culture.

  • You don't have to pay anything yet

    Especially good for

    Age 18+
    Singles
    Couples
    Groups
    50+

    About the program

    Be a hero for street dogs in Santiago de Chile. Rescue, care, and rehabilitate these furry friends to give them a second chance! Become a volunteer in a dog shelter. 🐶

    The Issue
    The streetscape of Chile's capital Santiago (and many other cities) is unfortunately dominated by stray dogs and cats. These animals are forced to be real survivors, as you can see from the fact that they have learned to wait side by side with the pedestrians at the traffic lights and then ...

    About the program

    The Issue
    The streetscape of Chile's capital Santiago (and many other cities) is unfortunately dominated by stray dogs and cats. These animals are forced to be real survivors, as you can see from the fact that they have learned to wait side by side with the pedestrians at the traffic lights and then cross the street in the protection of the crowd with green! But many survive more badly than right: Due to the food from the garbage, untreated diseases and injuries, the health of these animals is often miserable.

    The Program

    Fortunately, there are people with a big heart for animals who are committed to saving and protecting them. You can be one of them when volunteering in this project! In our volunteer project in Santiago de Chile, local volunteers work alongside volunteers from around the world to improve the situation of the animals on the street. The aim is always to take care of the dogs and cats to such an extent that they find a new home with loving owners. If you love animals and want to help improve the lives of dogs and cats in Santiago, this project is for you. Combine your passion for animals with a good cause!

    The Location

    Santiago de Chile is located almost exactly in the middle of Chile, halfway between the north and south and also about half way between the Argentine border and the ocean. The capital of Chile is an amazing city and one of the few metropolises in the world where you can actually ask yourself the question: "Going to the sea today and skiing tomorrow, or would you prefer the other way around?" since beautiful beaches are at the same distance like world-class ski slopes (and trekking routes during summer) in the Andes Mountains. Santiago de Chile divides Chile into the fertile south and the dry, mineral-rich north. And the city itself has something for everyone: there are beautiful places to relax, old colonial buildings and a lively urban culture with museums, street artists, theaters and more; small craft markets and green meadows, countless restaurants and pubs in beautiful nightlife areas. And above all, there is the flair of an up-and-coming metropolis that combines the characteristics of a modern capital with those of a colonial city steeped in history. This is where the heart of Chile's economy and progress beats and about a third of the Chileans are at home here. The Santiaguinos are usually friendly and helpful people and as a foreigner you can quickly find a connection. Santiago is also home to numerous universities, which has led to a lively international student life, especially in the past two decades.



    Typical day

    No prior knowledge of animal care is needed for this type of volunteer work, but you should be patient and have a great sense of responsibility. Likewise, you must not be afraid of dogs and / or cats, because these are absolutely in the focus of this volunteer project.

    Your tasks include:

    • Bathing, ...

    Typical day

    No prior knowledge of animal care is needed for this type of volunteer work, but you should be patient and have a great sense of responsibility. Likewise, you must not be afraid of dogs and / or cats, because these are absolutely in the focus of this volunteer project.

    Your tasks include:

    • Bathing, feeding, and walking the animals 
    • Cleaning cages and equipment
    • Drug administration and support with sterilization procedures
    • Help with rescue operations where animals are brought in from the street 
    • Food distribution for animals that live on the street
    • Help with public relations and educational work (not all volunteers are involved)
    • Support in the adoption process (not all volunteers are involved)
    • Fundraising (not all volunteers are involved)

    Note: The tasks may vary. They depend on factors such as number of volunteers, weather, season, current needs of the project, as well as self-motivation. Not every volunteer may be fully involved in all these tasks.


    Free-time activities

    In Santiago you can enjoy a variety of activities and experiences:

    • Plaza de Armas: Visit the main square, Plaza de Armas, to explore the Santiago Cathedral and the historic architecture. 
    • Cerro San Cristóbal: Hike or take a funicular to the top of this hill for breathtaking panoramic views of the ...

    Free-time activities

    In Santiago you can enjoy a variety of activities and experiences:

    • Plaza de Armas: Visit the main square, Plaza de Armas, to explore the Santiago Cathedral and the historic architecture. 
    • Cerro San Cristóbal: Hike or take a funicular to the top of this hill for breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the Andes. 
    • Museums: Explore Santiago's rich history and culture by visiting museums like the Chilean National Museum of Fine Arts and the Museum of Memory and Human Rights. 
    • Parks: Relax in the lush parks like Parque Forestal and Parque Bicentenario, ideal for picnics and leisurely walks. 
    • Food and Wine: Savor Chilean cuisine and wine at local restaurants, markets, and vineyards. 
    • Mercado Central: Visit the Central Market for a seafood feast in a bustling marketplace. 
    • La Chascona: Tour the former residence of famous poet Pablo Neruda, now a museum dedicated to his life and works. Barrio Bellavista: Explore the vibrant arts district filled with galleries, street art, and lively nightlife. 
    • Biking and Walking Tours: Join guided tours to explore the city on foot or by bike, learning about its history and culture. 
    • Day Trips: Take day trips to the beautiful Andes Mountains, Valparaíso, and Viña del Mar for coastal charm. Cultural Events: Participate in local festivals, concerts, and dance performances to immerse yourself in Chilean traditions.


    Requirements

    Requirements

    Minimum Age: 18 years

    In order to join the program you need to be at least 18 years old on the program start date. There might be exemptions if you can provide the permission of your legal guardian(s) or if your are accompanied by your parents.

    Language Skills

    You need to speak Spanish (basic level) or English (basic level)

    Education Requirements

    at High School level

    Required Documents

    CV and Volunteer Questionnaire

    Nationality Restrictions

    No restrictions. Helping hands from all over the world are welcome.

    Time Commitment

    Your helping hand will be required on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday

    What's Included

    What's Included

    On-site Services

    • Single room in Homestay
    • Internet access at homestay
    • Airport pick-up
    • Advice from our experienced staff
    • On-going support via WhatsApp, phone or mail
    • Elaboration of your application profile in Spanish
    • Your placement in the volunteer project
    • Pre-departure information
    • Packing list
    • Country handbook
    • Intercultural guide
    • On-site volunteer coordinator
    • 24/7 emergency number
    • Advice on travel insurance
    • Certificate of participation

    Airport Pickup at Arturo Merino Benitez Airport

    Upon your arrival at the airport of Santiago de Chile you will be picked-up. Our transfer service will bring your directly to your homestay.

    Accommodation

    An important part of our volunteer programs has always been to provide an intense glimpse into the culture of the host country. Therefore, our volunteers live in homestays. Living with a local hosts will allow you to experience the country in the most authentic way possible. You can immerse into local customs, taste typical meals, and experience the culture and traditions first-hand. You will quickly realize how much your Spanish skills improve each day. Our homestays are carefully screened and selected, and many hosts have years of experience with our international volunteers.

    You will be provided with a single room, while the bathroom can be private or shared. 

    You can also add the half-board supplement with daily breakfast & dinner for 100 USD / week.

    Internet Access

    Good access at the project site
    You don't have to pay anything yet

    What's NOT included?

    What's NOT included?

    Food & Beverages

    Food, snacks or beverages are at extra costs.

    Flight Tickets

    The nearest airport is Arturo Merino Benitez Airport (SCL) in Santiago. We assist you to find cheap flights to Chile. FIND CHEAP FLIGHTS

    Travel Insurance

    Going abroad is an adventure and it is always best to be prepared. Sudden illness or injury, cancellation or theft - a travel insurance for Chile provides security and is a plus to have. GET A QUOTE

    Vaccines

    If you are intending to volunteer in Chile you should seek medical advice before starting your social journey. Check your required vaccinations for Chile. VACCINE CHECKER

    Details on arrival

    The volunteer work can be joined throughout the year. The start and end date can be set flexible, according to your availability and travel plans. Ask our experienced staff to coordinate your participation in this meaningful volunteer project.

    Availability
    Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

    Program Fees

    $287 per week 2 - 24 weeks Age 18 - 50+

    Payment methods

    Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

    NO CREDIT CARD FEES


    Duration

    2 - 24 weeks

    Deposit

    Reserve your spot with just a few clicks and a small, secure deposit. You can pay by credit card, PayPal, or other convenient methods.


    Final Payment

    You’ll agree on the final payment method with your local organization during the application process. This final payment is only due closer to the start of your trip.

    You don't have to pay anything yet
    4.7
    Top Pick
    One of the top picks on Volunteer World, according to travelers
    2025
    Ich fühle mich sehr wohl in Santiago, die Anreise verlief reibungslos. Mein homestay hat eine super Lage und Gloria ist wirklich lieb. Ich ...
    Josh K,

    Help Stray Dogs

    2024
    Mir geht’s prima. War ein langer Tag, bin daher auch gut kaputt 🙂 Sowohl Spanischkurs als auch die Arbeit im Tierheim machen sehr viel ...
    Alex S.

    Help Stray Dogs

    2024
    I am going well and enjoying my work at the shelters!! I have adapted to life at the home stay so it is all working out and my Spanish is ...
    Amber R.

    Help Stray Dogs

    2024
    Die Arbeit gefällt mir sehr gut! Ich bin super reingekommen und fühle mich sehr wohl 🙂 Die Menschen sind sehr offen und freundlich! ...
    Regina N.

    Help Stray Dogs

    2024
    Mir geht es gut, ich fühle mich super wohl in Santiago und habe die Stadt wirklich in mein Herz geschlossen. Ich komme mit meinem Spanisch ...
    Carolina

    Help Stray Dogs

    Location

    Americas > South America > Chile > Santiago de Chile

    Meet your project coordinator

    Marion
    174
    reviews
    4.71
    Brilliant
    2003
    Founded

    Verified

      Good response rate
    Spoken languages: Spanish, English, German
    Travel safely by using Volunteer World for your communication and bookings. This way, you can benefit from the Flex Option, Refund Guarantee, and Resolution Support.

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    Contact Marion
      Good response rate
    Spanish, English, German

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    Travel dates

    1. - 1. Jan 1

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