Croatia, Split5/5 (2 reviews)
Animal rescue sanctuary volunteer programme
On the island of Brač near Split, care for donkeys, horses, goats and other animals rescued from abandonment, neglect or abuse in an animal sanctuary.
- Where
- Split, Croatia
- Length
- From 1 to 12 weeks
- Minimum age
- 16 years old
- Language
- English basic
from €1,725 for 2 weeks
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The project
This mission offers hands-on experience with animals rescued from abandonment, neglect, or abuse, within an animal sanctuary located on the island of Brač, accessible by boat from Split.
The sanctuary provides a natural and caring environment for animals that need care, attention, and time to regain their confidence. It is home to donkeys, horses, ponies, goats, rabbits and cats.
Volunteers directly contribute to their daily well-being and help provide them with better living conditions.
A project we follow
Projects chosen with care and followed through regular visits on site.
A typical week
The mission schedule may change depending on the season, particularly due to temperatures and weather conditions.
In summer, for example, activities at the sanctuary take place in the late afternoon, in order to avoid the hottest hours of the day. Schedules may therefore be adjusted depending on the time of year and the needs of the animals.
Accommodation and meals
Accommodation in a youth hostel, in single-sex dormitory rooms for 4 to 8 people with air conditioning (private rooms available upon request). Free Wi-Fi 24/7. The accommodation also has a shared kitchen, a garden and shared terraces.
The hostel is located in a quiet and safe area of the city of Split, close to the beach, within walking distance of the city center, with a bus stop nearby.
Animal Protection Missions in Croatia
Tasks vary from day to day, but may include:
- Cleaning the shelter facilities, which takes up a large part of the day.
- Animal care: brushing and grooming to ensure their hygiene and well-being.
- Games and walks to socialize the animals, keep them fit and entertain them.
- Photography and videos to create an identity booklet for each animal, in order to promote their adoption.
- Improving the animals’ living conditions: maintaining green spaces and building fences.
As the animal protection mission in Croatia is physical and can be messy, it is important to wear appropriate clothing. Boots will be provided on site, and a changing room is available.
A Sanctuary Located on an Island
As the sanctuary is located on an island across from Split, volunteers need to take into account the daily travel by boat and other local transportation.
Volunteers should budget approximately €10 to €15 per day for transportation costs, including boats and the necessary travel to reach the island.
Additional information
Three meals per day, every day: breakfast, lunch and dinner (local style). Vegetarian, gluten-free and lactose-free meals are also available upon request.
Budget
How long are you going for?
Arrivals Sunday, all year round
What is included
- Airport pickup at Split Airport on Sunday and transfer to the accommodation
- Accommodation
- Meals
- Material and equipment
- 24/7 support
Not included
- Flights
- Return transfer to the airport
- Daily transportation between the accommodation and the project
- Personal Insurance
Where your money goes
Donations are reinvested in full and directly into the local associations. How the costs break down
See the budget week by week
| Length | Total programme budget |
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Responsible travel by Freepackers
Why not take your time?
Extend your trip in Croatia
No volunteering here: a tour with local guides, at your own pace. The team arranges it with your stay, in the same enquiry.
You can add it when you fill in your enquiry.
Getting ready to leave
Your application
An up-to-date CV and a cover letter describing your background and what brings you here.
Insurance
For any project abroad, Freepackers requires travel insurance covering accidents, illness, repatriation and third-party liability. With Chapka Cap Student, you get 5% off.
Online language lessons
With Clic Campus: video lessons and an e-learning platform, from home.
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