Thinking of volunteering with an international animal charity or not-for-profit organisation?

There are many organisations around the world that are looking for volunteers like you. But its not always easy to find the information you need to tell which ones are ethical and would be a good fit.

I’ve created honest, simple overviews of the charities and shelters that I’ve loved volunteering with around the world. The profiles contain everything you need to know to get a feel for each organisation and start planning your trip.

Please take a read, and if you find a charity that you think would be a good fit for you, please contact them directly via the links at the bottom of each page.

Please note that I am not affiliated with or paid by any of the following organisations. You can be sure that my profiles are based entirely on objective facts and my first-hand experiences.

Two seals lying on a beach with crystal blue water in the Galapagos

Darwin Animal Doctors, Galapagos Islands

Volunteer with domestic animals at a charity veterinary clinic in Puerta Ayora, helping to protect the biodiversity of the stunning Galapagos islands by preventing pet overpopulation. Read more.

A group of street dogs puppies jump towards the camera excitedly

Animal SOS Sri Lanka

This large shelter provides a caring home for the street animals of Sri Lanka, and is just around the corner from the country’s famous surf coast. Read more.

A paint and a palamino horse reach out to each other with their noses, in a small yard at the RDA

Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA), UK

Discover how you can become a volunteer with the RDA, assisting children and adults with special needs to build confidence through horse-riding. Read More

Fundació MONA, Spain

If you’re interested in husbandry and keeping, check out this charity in Catalonia that rehabilitates rescued primates from the television and illegal pet industries. Read more.

5 puppies jumping against the gate eagerly in a snowy run in Bulgaria

Animal Rescue Sofia, Bulgaria

This shelter provides a home and medical care to the unwanted domestic animals of Bulgaria. Read More.

Three juvenile seals look closely at the camera

Seal Rescue Ireland

For those interested in marine mammals and conservation, SRI takes volunteers to assist in the rehabilitation and release of orphaned seal pups in county Wexford. Read More.

A wooden carved dog outside of the Many Tears Animal Rescue in Wales

Many Tears Animal Rescue, Wales

Volunteer at this rescue centre in a beautiful part of Wales, which rehabilitates and cares for abused and unwanted dogs and horses while they’re matched with their forever homes. Read more.

A streetvet looks fondly at a stffordshore terrier sitting in the street with its owner

StreetVet, UK

StreetVet sees vets and vet nurses hitting the pavements across the UK to bring veterinary care to the pets of homeless community Read more

A vet smiles as she pulls on surgical gloves across from a vet nurse monitoring a sleeping dog

The RSPCA of Papua New Guinea

Find out what its really like to volunteer as a veterinary professional for the RSPCA during their high-volume spey and neuter program in Port Moresby. Read more

Learn from my experiences of preparing for a volunteering position on the Planning your Volunteer Trip Page.

How about hearing about the personal experiences of people who have volunteered at these charities? Head over to the Volunteer Experience Page.

Do you know a charity that would like to be featured here? Please get in touch.