We are always in need of compassionate volunteers who are ready to make a difference in the lives of animals. The more volunteers we have, the more animals we can help!
As an animal care volunteer you will enjoy nothing more than seeing the animals blossom and thrive with your love and dedication. At El Refugio, we value the emotional wellbeing of the dogs and cats as much as their safety and good health.
Volunteers run the rescue and there are many opportunities to put your passions and skills to great use behind the scenes.
Help us keep our mission alive. Join us and be a part of an amazing team that fosters safer, healthier futures for dogs and cats.
“You create such strong bonds with animals. When I first took Biscuit in the car to go to the beach, she cried with joy. On the way back, as if to thank me, she put her head on my shoulder while I was driving. After spending 7 months at the shelter, she was adopted. It was my turn to cry with joy!”
Vero, Costa Rica
CARING FOR THE CATS & DOGS
Help at the Shelter
Caring for dogs includes feeding, walking, playing, spending quality one-on-one time, bathing, and limited cleaning.
Caring for cats involves feeding, scooping, limited cleaning, and most importantly, showering each of them with the love they deserve.
What to expect
- One or more shifts per week from 8 to 11 a.m. or 3 to 5 p.m.
- Team meeting at the beginning of each shift
- Plenty of guidance and support
- Lots of love from the cats and dogs
Requirements
- Help on at least one shift (2 to 3 hours/week)
- 1 month commitment minimum
- 18 years or older, or 13 to 17 years and accompanied by a parent or legal guardian who is also volunteering on your shift
When you see how much they need us at this time in their lives, you will know that it is easy to give a little bit of yourself to make their lives better. There is nothing better than being a part of the transformations.
“I am so in love with the volunteers at El Refugio. I remember when I first started to volunteer three years ago and I said “Everyone here is so friendly, caring and nice”. Another volunteer said to me “Of course! Animal lovers are the best people” So true! I have bonded not only with the cats and dogs we love and care for but also these amazing people ❤”
Deanne, Costa Rica/Canada
CARE FOR AN ANIMAL IN YOUR HOME
Foster
While our shelter is as good as it gets for a shelter environment, the animals do better in your home.
Caring for a rescued animal temporarily in your home is the most special way you can contribute to their well-being!
Behind The Scenes
Ways To Help
There are many fulfilling roles and tasks available to support efforts behind the scenes. Whether you can commit to the short-term or long-term, give a small amount of time or dive into a big role, or want to help with specific projects your involvement will make a meaningful difference. And, much of the work can be done from the comfort of your home and remotely from anywhere in the world!
- Adoptions
- Community Assistance
- Education
- Events
- Fundraising
- Graphic Design
- Marketing
- Maintenance
- Social Media & Website
- Spay & Neuter Clinics
- Translations
- Volunteer Coordination
- Writing & Communications
Every volunteer is a crucial part of our team, and the impact of your involvement cannot be overstated. Whether you’re caring for the animals, helping with fundraising, or spreading the word about our mission, you will be directly contributing to the well-being of the animals in our care—and we, along with the animals, will be forever grateful.
Welcome From Around The World
Volunteer and Stay on Site
Visit us in Costa Rica, stay in our modern clean rooms, and have one of the most amazing memorable experiences of your life. Between working and playing with the spunky dogs and affectionate felines, you will have plenty of time to enjoy fun activities and the bountiful natural wonders close by.
Join our team of kind-hearted animal lovers
Why should you do it? It’s fun, it’s different, it’s a place to meet people, you will love the animals, and most importantly …
… together we can reach more animals in need.
