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Great 4.45rating (27)
  • Life On Land

Support at a dog shelter

location
2 - 50 weeks  ·  Age 16 - 50+
Verified

Highlights

  • Learn more about dogs, their proper care, and their needs while gaining valuable hands-on experience.
  • Help street dogs in need and give them care, safety, and a second chance at a better life.
  • Improve your English skills and learn more about other cultures while working in an international environment.

Highlights

  • Learn more about dogs, their proper care, and their needs while gaining valuable hands-on experience.
  • Help street dogs in need and give them care, safety, and a second chance at a better life.
  • Improve your English skills and learn more about other cultures while working in an international environment.
  • Connect with dog lovers from all over the world and share your passion while making a real difference.
  • Discover Crete, one of the most beautiful Greek islands, and experience its stunning beaches, rich culture, and breathtaking landscapes.
    • You don't have to pay anything yet

    Especially good for

    Age 16+
    Singles
    Couples
    Groups
    50+

    About the program

    You love animals and want to support animal welfare? Dogs are your passion? Join our dog project in Crete and help care for rescued stray dogs in need!

    The placement is a shelter for stray dogs located near the city of Heraklion on Crete. It is run by a local animal welfare organization and can accommodate up to 80 dogs. The animals are housed there temporarily to receive proper care and medical treatment before they are either adopted or released ...

    About the program

    The placement is a shelter for stray dogs located near the city of Heraklion on Crete. It is run by a local animal welfare organization and can accommodate up to 80 dogs. The animals are housed there temporarily to receive proper care and medical treatment before they are either adopted or released back into their familiar environment.

    In addition to providing food and medical care, many of the dogs are sterilized, vaccinated, and microchipped. In this way, the organization not only reduces the animals’ immediate suffering but also helps prevent uncontrolled breeding and the spread of diseases.

    Crete is home to many stray dogs in need of care. In many areas, the dogs reproduce uncontrollably, and a significant number suffer from poor health. The local organization is doing its best to improve the situation, but there is a constant shortage of staff. The entire team consists of volunteers who can only work at the shelter in their spare time.

    For this reason, the organization greatly appreciates the support of dedicated international volunteers to help ensure that all dogs receive proper care, attention, and affection.

    This project is all about improving the lives of stray dogs and giving them a second chance. In addition, the organization runs an educational program aimed at promoting changes in animal welfare legislation and raising awareness to positively influence public attitudes toward animal protection.

    There are no special requirements to take part. What truly matters is a genuine love for working with animals and a real interest in animal welfare. Being physically fit can also be a great advantage, as many tasks are hands-on and active.

    If you enjoy meaningful work, don’t mind getting your hands dirty, and care deeply about protecting animals, you’ll fit right in.

    Typical day

    As a volunteer, you will support the team in properly caring for the dogs and assist with tasks such as:

    • Feeding the dogs

    • Washing and grooming the dogs

    • Caring for sick or injured animals

    • Daily walks

    • Supporting the organization’s social media channels

    Volunteers usually work five days per ...

    Typical day

    As a volunteer, you will support the team in properly caring for the dogs and assist with tasks such as:

    • Feeding the dogs

    • Washing and grooming the dogs

    • Caring for sick or injured animals

    • Daily walks

    • Supporting the organization’s social media channels

    Volunteers usually work five days per week, around six hours per day. A typical day might start with helping to organize necessary supplies for the shelter and assisting with social media management. The rest of your shift will be spent directly with the dogs — feeding, washing, walking them, and making sure they receive plenty of care and attention.

    After work and on your days off, you’ll have plenty of time to explore the beautiful island and enjoy exciting excursions.

    Free-time activities

    On Crete, the island of the gods, you’re sure never to get bored. Be sure to take some time after your volunteer work to explore Greece’s largest island.

    About twelve kilometers from your project site lies Heraklion, the capital of Crete. Highlights of the city include its beautiful Venetian ...

    Free-time activities

    On Crete, the island of the gods, you’re sure never to get bored. Be sure to take some time after your volunteer work to explore Greece’s largest island.

    About twelve kilometers from your project site lies Heraklion, the capital of Crete. Highlights of the city include its beautiful Venetian harbor, the historic old town, and the island’s most famous landmark: the Palace of Knossos. Here, you can learn about the well-known myths of the Minotaur, explore the labyrinth, and discover more about the history of the Minoan civilization. Bonus: entry to the palace is free for volunteers under 25 — just speak to our project team.

    If you want to dive deeper into history, visit the Archaeological Museum in Heraklion, which houses an extensive collection of artifacts from the Minoan period — widely regarded as the birthplace of European culture.

    Another city worth visiting is Chania, considered one of the most beautiful towns on the island. Highlights include its Venetian harbor, lighthouse, historic old town, and the Hasan Pasha Mosque.

    Crete is also perfect for nature lovers, with breathtaking landscapes, towering mountains, and deep gorges. The Samaria Gorge is one of Europe’s largest and an ideal spot for hiking. Another great hiking destination is Pachnes, Crete’s second-highest peak in the White Mountains, known for its dramatic, lunar-like terrain.

    If beaches are more your style, Crete won’t disappoint. Visit Preveli Beach, famous for its heart-shaped rock rising from the water — a favorite for photos. Another unique spot is Elafonisi Beach, where turquoise waters meet pink sand — a true must-see!

    Requirements

    Requirements

    Minimum Age: 16 years

    In order to join the program you need to be at least 16 years old on the program start date.

    Nationality Restrictions

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

    Other Skills

    There are no specific requirements to participate. What matters most is a love for working with animals and an interest in animal welfare. Being physically fit is often an advantage as well.

    Time Commitment

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

    What's Included

    What's Included

    On-site Services

    Before Departure

    • Personalized advice and support from our trained team 

    • Organization of your placement, including project placement and coordination of your stay abroad

    • Assistance with preparation: visa, health precautions, travel insurance, etc.

    • Non-binding flight offer

    • Travel ABC with a packing list to help you get ready

    • RGV Home: Digital assistant for your preparation with tips and guidance for your trip

    • RGV Academy: E-learning tool with over 6 hours of video content and personal development resources

    On Site

    • Orientation program with the on-site team

    • Guidance and support from the local team

    • 24-hour RGV emergency contact number

    • Airport transfer on your agreed arrival and departure days

    • Accommodation in the volunteer apartment

    • Meals: Breakfast included

    After Your Return

    • Certificate confirming your volunteer work

    • Reflection course to review and process your international experience

    • Evaluation form and optional feedback session

    Airport Pickup at Heraklion Airport

    When you arrive at the airport, a member of the RGV team will be there to welcome you and take you straight to your placement. Once there, you’ll have time to settle in, explore your new surroundings, and get to know your accommodation, workplace, and fellow team members.

    Our local RGV team regularly checks in and is always just a call away if you need anything.

    Accommodation

    During your placement, you will stay in one of the on-site volunteer apartments. The specific apartment you are assigned to depends on the number of volunteers at the project and the length of your stay.

    Each apartment accommodates up to four volunteers. All apartments are fully furnished and equipped with Wi-Fi. Towels and bed linen are provided, but volunteers are responsible for keeping the living spaces clean.

    To get from your accommodation to the project, you’ll take a bus to a stop near the shelter, where a team member will pick you up. A monthly bus pass costs around €65, or €30 per week.

    Supermarkets, restaurants, bars, and other shops are all nearby. The beach is also within easy reach, perfect for relaxing or swimming. The area is considered safe, so it’s fine to be out alone during the day or evening. Heraklion city center is about 7 km away and easily accessible by bus.

    Occasionally, social events or group excursions are organized, which you are welcome to join.

    Food & Beverages

    Breakfast is included.


    Dinner can be booked for an additional fee. Just let us know if you are interested in booking an extra meal :)

    Internet Access

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

    What's NOT included?

    What's NOT included?

    Flight Tickets

    The nearest airport is Heraklion Airport (HER) in Heraklion. We assist you to find cheap flights to Greece. 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 Greece provides security and is a plus to have. GET A QUOTE

    Vaccines

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

    Details on arrival

    You can start every Monday or Sunday. 


    When you arrive at the airport, a member of the RGV team will be there to welcome you and take you straight to your placement. Once there, you’ll have time to settle in, explore your new surroundings, and get to know your accommodation, workplace, and fellow team members.

     Our local RGV team regularly checks in and is always just a call away if you need anything.

    The day after your arrival, the orientation program begins. You’ll learn a lot about Greek culture, local customs, and the shelter’s house rules. If needed, you’ll go together to the city to get a monthly public transport pass, or you can head directly to the shelter. There, your workspace will be shown to you, and all daily routines and procedures will be explained. If you have any questions, the on-site team is always available to help. After the orientation program, the rest of the day is free for you to relax or explore.

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

    Program Fees

    $560 per week 2 - 50 weeks Age 16 - 50+

    Payment methods

    Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

    NO CREDIT CARD FEES

    Duration

    2 - 50 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
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    Location

    Europe > Southern Europe > Greece > Heraklion

    Meet your project coordinator

    RGV
    27
    reviews
    4.45
    Great
    1999
    Founded

    Verified

      Moderate response rate
    Spoken languages: German, Spanish, English
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    Volunteer Abroad  >  Animals  >  Street Animals in Greece
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    Travel dates

    1. - 1. Jan 1

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