Shelter Animal Carer - help for abandoned dogs and cats .

Czech Republic

5

I had the amazing opportunity to take part in my very first volunteering experience at ARA for two weeks — and it was truly unforgettable. From the very first day, I felt warmly welcomed by both the staff and the other volunteers. I met incredible people from different parts of the world, and I'm so grateful for the friendships and memories we created together. I learned a lot about the shelter welfare, dog behavior, and how important it is to give shelter animals love, patience, and time. I'm so happy that I chose ARA as my first volunteering project!

about 1 month ago

Animal Rescue Algarve replied

Tereza was a fantastic addition to our shelter during her two-week stay. From day one, she brought a calm, caring presence and a genuine love for both dogs and cats. She was always proactive, dependable, and willing to help with anything needed—whether it was cleaning, walking dogs, or spending quiet time with our shyer animals. Her gentle approach and dedication made a real impact on both the animals and our team. We’re truly grateful for her time with us

Germany

5

It was my second time at ARA and definitely not my last!!! ARA is such a special place with lots of love for the animals. The staff is really nice and they do the best they can! The work you have to do doesnt even feel like work because it makes so much fun with the animals. Its also the perfect place to make new friends from all over the world. For people who love animals and want to make a difference i definitely recommend this place. ARA has such a big place in my heart and iam really looking forward to come back.

about 2 months ago

Animal Rescue Algarve replied

Jana was an outstanding volunteer during her second time at our shelter. Always dedicated, she spent much of her free time walking dogs and taking them to the park, giving them the attention and care they truly needed. She was especially helpful with Canelon’s training, arriving early to every shift tofeed him and making him more social. Her commitment, kindness, and calm presence made a big difference. We’re very thankful for her help and would be happy to welcome her back anytime!

Germany

5

ARA was a wonderful experience!! The work with the dogs together with other volunteers and the team was one of the best experiences in my life and I will definitely come back!!

about 2 months ago

Animal Rescue Algarve replied

Katharina was a wonderful volunteer at ARA, our dog and cat shelter in Portugal. During her time with us, she showed great dedication and care in every task she took on. She regularly walked the dogs after her shift time, making sure they got the exercise and attention they needed. Katharina was reliable, kind, and always willing to help wherever needed. We’re very grateful for her time and effort, and we hope to welcome her back anytime!

Ireland

5

Such a fun and rewarding experience! The staff and other volunteers were super welcoming and friendly. The facilities were great and everything was well-organised. Had a great time and would definitely recommend!

about 2 months ago

Animal Rescue Algarve replied

Andrea has been a great volunteer at our shelter, and we feel incredibly fortunate to have her on our team. Her compassion, reliability, and gentle approach make her very easy to work with. Andrea has a special way of connecting with every animal she cares for. She’s very patient and nurturing, often spending extra time with the more timid or anxious animals, offering them comfort, cuddles, and reassurance. Her presence helps them feel safe and loved. You can feel her genuine love for animals

Germany

5

I have been at Ara two times now and I can't recommend this place enough!! If you love animals and want to help this is the place to go. There are always a lot of volunteers so even if you go alone you will never feel alone! Everyone is really welcoming and kind and the staff is also always there to help with anything. The work doesn't really feel like work if you love animals the work will be fun and you also still have lots of free time where you can go enjoy the pool, the town, train dogs, go for extra walks, take dogs to the beach… I love this place so much and can't wait to come back

about 2 months ago

Animal Rescue Algarve replied

We are incredibly grateful to have had Emma as a volunteer at our animal shelter. From the moment she joined us, Emma has been an outstanding volunteer member—reliable, proactive, and deeply compassionate.Emma consistently demonstrates a strong sense of responsibility. Whether it's helping with daily routines, taking initiative during busy times, or ensuring every animal gets the love and attention they deserve, she always goes above and beyond.

Belgium

5

When I saw all these 5-star reviews, I was like "Yeah right, how is that possible ?" Well, it is. My 3 weeks at ARA was one of the most incredible experiences e-ver. You are part of an amazing team of international staff and volunteers who take care of even more amazing dogs and cats. The work doesn't feel like working, and since there are so many volunteers it is done before you know it. The staff gives volunteers so much freedom and the responsibility to take dogs for extra walks, trips to the city or the beach,... It will feel like your new home & I hope to come back soon ❤️

about 2 months ago

Animal Rescue Algarve replied

Katrien has been a truly dedicated and reliable volunteer at our shelter.Always responsible and caring, she consistently went above and beyond by going on extra walks and giving them much-needed attention and enrichment.She played a key role in helping train one of our more challenging dogs, showing patience, consistency,and compassion.In her free time,Katrien often took dogs to our parks,giving them the chance to play, and simply enjoy life and company.we are very grateful for all her help

Germany

5

It was such an amazing experience ! Will definitely come back. All humans, dogs and cats were so special and wonderful and have a place in my heart. Thank you for this amazing experience!

about 2 months ago

Animal Rescue Algarve replied

Franziska volunteered at our shelter and was an absolute joy to have on the team. From the moment she arrived, she showed great enthusiasm and initiative. Her proactive attitude meant that she was always one step ahead—whether it was cleaning kennels, walking dogs, assisting with feeding times, or helping with administrative tasks.She was incredibly friendly, not just with the staff but also with the dogs, who clearly responded well to her calm and caring nature.

Ireland

5

I have absolutely fallen in love with ARA! It is such a special place. Everyone, staff and volunteers, are so lovely and friendly. I stayed for 2 weeks but now wish I could have stayed longer but I will be back as soon as possible. I would recommend this place to literally anyone! There's a special place in my heart for all the animals here 🩷 I have so much love for this place I don't know how to put it into words, everything about it is just so beautiful!!! The best place I could have picked for my first Worldpackers experience 🩷

about 2 months ago

Animal Rescue Algarve replied

We are incredibly grateful to have Sarah as part of our volunteer team at the animal shelter. From the moment she joined, her warmth, friendliness, and dedication have made a lasting impact on both our staff and the animals in our care.Sarah has a natural way with animals — they immediately respond to her calm, gentle presence. She goes above and beyond during every shift, not only taking excellent care of the animals but also spending extra time cuddling and comforting them

Germany

5

My second time at ARA and it could not have been more special! Just from my point of view in 2019, ARA was already one of the best organized and the shelter welfare-orientated shelters I ever worked with. And especially now in 2025, if there is something like a dogshelter-heaven, ARA is on of the top. For solo-travelers: if you look for funny, the shelter-loving people: look no further, you found it here. For couples: one of the best experiences. Private room, dog-walking-/cleaning-shifts together in sunsets or separated for a little pause. Many friends to find but also private space. Just perfect.

about 2 months ago

Animal Rescue Algarve replied

Fenja has been an absolute joy to have as a volunteer at our animal shelter. From the very beginning, she brought a bright and positive energy with her, always greeting both people and animals with a warm smile. Her dedication and compassion were evident in everything she did. We are also thrilled to share that Fenja is adopting one of our dogs, which speaks volumes about her love and commitment to animal welfare. It’s comforting to know that one of our beloved dogs will be adopted by her :)

United Kingdom

5

As always, a very special time at ARA. I can't reccomend this place enough to anyone who is new to voulenteering or an the shelter lover. It's an amazing organisation.

2 months ago

Animal Rescue Algarve replied

Heather has been an outstanding member of our volunteer team, and we are so grateful for her continued dedication and compassion. She has a calm, kind presence that the dogs respond to immediately, making her a valuable part of their daily care and socialization. One of the things that stands out most about Heather is her commitment to going on extra mile.She regularly takes the dogs on additional walks, ensuring they get plenty of exercise and fresh air

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