If you love animals and want to experience Meditternean living, this opportunity for volunteering in Greece might peak your interest. Help out an animal shelter with care for dogs, cat and goats!
Overview
- Location – Nea Kallikratia
- Host – Diamanto
- Duration: 21 days
- Minimum Age – 21+
- Available Spots – 2 helpers
- Weekly Hours – 27 hours
- Room Type – Single Private
- Meals – Half-board
- Nearest Airport – Thessaloniki Airport – Makedonia (SKG)
Volunteers are invited to join the team in caring for animals in need, including dogs, cats, and farm animals. You’ll have the opportunity to live in a house within the shelter, surrounded by dogs, while learning about animal welfare in Greece.
The shelter operates with an open concept, with no cages, allowing dogs to roam freely in designated areas based on their compatibility.
Daily tasks include cleaning, feeding, administering medication, and monitoring the animals for signs of illness. Volunteers will interact with the dogs, play with them, take them for walks in the peaceful rural surroundings, or even visit the beach.
You’ll learn to care for dogs of all personalities with guidance and support from the shelter’s founder and local volunteers.
A typical day begins at 6:30 am with feeding, providing water, and cleaning enclosures, usually finishing around 9:30 am. Tasks may vary depending on the season and temperature, with the added bonus of experiencing beautiful sunrises and sunsets at the refuge.
Despite the large number of dogs, the team takes the time to introduce volunteers to each dog’s personality from day one. While the dogs’ energy may seem overwhelming at first, techniques are provided to help volunteers set boundaries.
Safety rules are essential due to potential accidents, but spending time with the dogs helps volunteers quickly understand and adhere to these guidelines.
In the afternoon, volunteers typically assist with feeding and cleaning again and may help take the goats out to graze, usually around 6 pm (or adjusted to 3 pm after daylight-saving time changes).
The main task with the goats is to prevent them from wandering onto roads or grazing on neighboring olive crops. Volunteers are also responsible for cleaning their own living space. If you love animals and want to form a deep connection with them, this is the perfect opportunity for you!
Tasks
A typical day at the refuge begins at 6:30 am with feeding and caring for the dogs, followed by cleaning their enclosures, usually finishing around 9:30 am.
Volunteers are introduced to each dog’s personality, with guidance on setting boundaries and ensuring safety. In the afternoon, tasks include taking the goats out to graze and assisting with additional feeding and cleaning.
Volunteers also maintain their living space. The commitment is 5 days a week, with 2 days off, which can be arranged flexibly.
Accommodation
The shelter is a small operation with accommodations available only for animals and the founder. They can host a maximum of 2 volunteers in an adjacent 60-square-meter house.
The house includes a double bedroom, a single bedroom, a separate toilet, a fridge, and a washing machine.
Located in a rural, non-residential area, the sanctuary offers peace and tranquility. The 60-square-meter house also serves as the home for 6 foster cats, so expect to enjoy some cat therapy sessions during your stay.
The guesthouse intentionally lacks a TV and radio but offers reliable and free internet access. Volunteers are asked to maintain a quiet and noise-free environment.
While the dogs on-site may bark, earplugs can help minimize any disturbance. Please note that a landline with a WiFi connection is available in the volunteer house 24/7.
Location
The nearest airport to the shelter is Thessaloniki (GREECE) (SKG), just a 20-minute ride away. Airport pick-up can be arranged after communication.
Nea Kallikratia is a charming seaside town in the Halkidiki region of Greece, offering a blend of relaxation and local culture. Located about 35 kilometers from Thessaloniki, it’s a popular destination for both locals and tourists looking for a quick getaway by the sea.
The town is known for its beautiful sandy beaches with crystal-clear waters. Paralia Nea Kallikratia, the main beach, is well-organized, with plenty of sunbeds and umbrellas available for rent. The shallow waters make it ideal for families with children, while the beachfront tavernas serve delicious local seafood and traditional Greek dishes.
If you prefer a quieter spot, head to the nearby Mykoniatika Beach, which is less crowded and perfect for a more relaxed day by the sea.
Beyond the beaches, Nea Kallikratia has a lively town center with shops, cafes, and restaurants where you can experience Greek hospitality. The local market is a great place to pick up fresh produce, olive oil, and souvenirs.
Don’t miss the opportunity to try local delicacies like bougatsa (a sweet or savory pastry) and fresh fish caught that morning.
For those interested in history and culture, the area around Nea Kallikratia offers several archaeological sites and traditional villages worth exploring. The ancient city of Olynthos, known for its impressive mosaics, is just a short drive away.
Additionally, the town serves as a convenient base for day trips to other parts of Halkidiki, such as the famous Mount Athos peninsula or the scenic Sithonia region.
Whether you’re looking to unwind on the beach, explore Greek history, or indulge in local cuisine, Nea Kallikratia offers a delightful mix of experiences in a picturesque setting.
More Information
Physical fitness is required for tasks such as lifting and carrying buckets filled with feed or water during feeding times. It’s also advisable to have experience with dogs, as they roam freely in their areas and may jump on you to greet you.
No special equipment is needed. Volunteers should wear appropriate clothing and shoes for the season of their visit. In winter, conditions may be cold, wet, and muddy, while summers are hot and humid, with much time spent outdoors. Regardless of the season, sensible shoes that provide support and comfort are essential.
