Dog and cat sanctuary volunteering in Portugal

Planet

CARBON REDUCTION

This project is based in Lisbon, meaning there is no requirement for internal flights or additional air transfers once participants arrive, helping to avoid unnecessary in-country transport emissions.

Volunteers travel to a single central location and remain based in shared accommodation for the duration of their stay, reducing the need for daily long-distance commuting. All travel within the programme is organised locally and kept as efficient as possible, with volunteers typically working in one placement area rather than multiple dispersed sites.

Volunteers are also given pre-departure information that encourages responsible travel behaviour, including awareness of resource use such as water and electricity during their stay. Shared accommodation further reduces per-person resource consumption compared to individual housing.

Vegetarian options are available within the volunteer accommodation meal provision, helping to reduce environmental impact through more flexible dietary choices where required.

ENVIRONMENT AND WILDLIFE

This project directly supports the care and rehabilitation of rescued and abandoned dogs and cats in local shelters in and around Lisbon. The focus is on improving animal welfare outcomes through daily care, socialisation, and maintaining clean, safe environments for animals awaiting adoption.

The shelters involved provide essential protection for animals that have been abandoned or surrendered, ensuring they are cared for rather than left without support. Volunteers contribute to maintaining these environments by assisting with cleaning, feeding, and enrichment activities that support both physical and emotional wellbeing.

The project promotes responsible human–animal interaction, with an emphasis on calm, respectful handling and understanding of animal behaviour, particularly for animals that may have experienced neglect or trauma.

People

LOCAL ECONOMY

This project contributes to the local economy in Lisbon through volunteer accommodation, local services, and daily spending by participants. Volunteers live in shared housing and purchase food and personal items locally during their stay, supporting small businesses in the surrounding area.

Where possible, local staff and shelter teams are involved in the delivery of the project, ensuring that the work directly supports organisations embedded within the local community. The shelters themselves operate as part of the local animal welfare infrastructure, relying on both staff and volunteer input to continue their work.

EMPLOYMENT, INCLUSIVITY AND DIVERSITY

The project works in partnership with local animal shelters in Lisbon, where day-to-day operations are delivered by local staff and supported by international volunteers. This ensures that employment and operational knowledge remain rooted within the local community.

The programme is open to volunteers from a wide range of backgrounds and nationalities, encouraging an inclusive environment where participants work together in shared accommodation and volunteering settings.

Volunteers are expected to follow local guidance and work respectfully within shelter environments, contributing to a positive and supportive atmosphere for both staff and animals.