Volunteer in Residence Program, El Refugio Hogar Animal Costa Ballena

Being a Volunteer in Residence at El Refugio gives you the opportunity to be a care giver and family member of the dogs and cats in residence at our shelter, alongside our Shelter Supervisor and team of local and international volunteers. Each of these animals has been abandoned, owner-surrendered, or lost; they are in dire need of our care.

Your duties while volunteering at the shelter will vary, including the following during each shift:

·      walking, feeding, bathing and socializing our dogs in residence 

·      cleaning dog kennels and dog yards

·      feeding and socializing our cats in residence

·      cleaning cat litter boxes, water bowls, and outdoor cat enclosures

·      administering medications to dogs and cats.

If you are a lover of cats and dogs and wish to share some of your love with those at our shelter, this is THE opportunity for you!

What are the requirements of our program? 

·      You must be comfortable with both cats and dogs, and be dedicated to sharing love with those residing in our shelter.

·      You must be at least 18 years old.

·      You must be capable of physical activity (such as walking dogs).

·      You must be able to lift 40 pounds.

·      You must be able to work in high temperatures and humidity.

·      You must be conversant in English. Speaking a little Spanish is also helpful, but not required.  

·      You must be able to cover any medical expenses while volunteering with us (via medical insurance or cash payment).

By being a Volunteer in Residence at El Refugio you will have the opportunity to gain much more beyond caring for and sharing your love with cats and dogs in need, including:

·      become a member of a cohesive, friendly team of animal lovers...so you will make many new human friends from all over the world, too;

·      practice your Spanish with both native and second language speakers, in a safe and calm learning environment;

·      learn new skills, including basic medical procedures, bottle feeding baby kittens and puppies, caring for dogs and cats in recovery following spay/neuter surgery, and teaching techniques while sharing our Animal Welfare Education Program to local community kids;

·      experience the natural wonders of this region, including beautiful tropical beaches, magnificent rainforests, pristine waterfalls and mystical mangrove forests.