Help save these amazing dogs! This dog rescue centre near Alhaurín de la Torrein, Spain specializes in Galgos, also known as Spanish greyhounds. Galgos are used mostly as hunting dogs and are not seen as companion animals. As such, they are not protected by Spanish law, and are often abondoned and abused. The mission of the centre is to rescue and rehabilitate these dogs, providing medical care, physiotherapy, socialization and love until the dogs can be adopted.
Help with animal care, socializing and therapy
In Spain, galgos – Spanish greyhounds - are used for hunting hares in the countryside. Despite being part of Spanish culture for centuries, as “hunting dogs” galgos are not seen as companion animals and often have difficult lives filled with neglect and abuse. Their speed and agility make them excellent at chasing hares and breeders aspire to create the “perfect” galgos. Galgueros (breeders) will often select puppies from a litter that show the most promise for hunting or racing, while abandoning the rest in the streets. The puppies that do get selected often do not live very long lives. Our partner in Spain decided that humans have failed these galgos enough. Traveling all over Spain, this group rescues abandoned and abused galgos from sad situations. The galgos are given a safe place to live, medical care, physiotherapy, aqua-therapy, socialization and love until they can be adopted. The group adopts these rehabilitated dogs to new homes all over the world, including places as far away as Norway and Canada. Volunteers help care for these dogs, ensuring that they can have a second chance and find loving homes.
Activities
Volunteers at the Galgos Rescue Centre care for the dogs - which can number as many as 35 at one time. Waking up early in the morning, volunteers spend time in the Galgos' area, cleaning their paddock, preparing their meals and delivering breakfast. The dogs are socialized throughout the day while their beds are changed and cleaned. Aqua-therapy (in their new in ground pool) and physiotherapy takes place on site, while most of the medical procedures take place at a veterinary clinic in town.
Hours: 7:00 am – 5:00pm
You will be staying in your own cabin that is located inside the centre grounds. The grounds are a small "finca" (farm), 20 minutes from the town. You will be doing your own cooking and cleaning and will be taken to the local grocery to stock up on supplies (the cost of meals is not included in the fees.) The cabin has a private bathroom, simple kitchen and patio. The finca is completely fenced and has a family living on the grounds, making this a homestay of sorts, although you have your own private space. The finca is within quick driving distance to the sea, cafes, shops and entertainment. This is the perfect place to have a quiet getaway while volunteering with animals!
Includes:
Airport pick up and drop off (at the closest airport), accommodation, on-site training, donation to Placement Partner, AEI Travel Manual, emergency support while at placement, carbon credits to offset 3 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions, premium Individual Travel Insurance (up to $500, 000 USD in emergency medical coverage), 24/7 travel and emergency assistance, and enrolment with the Global Travel Academy to earn a certificate inn International Volunteering. This 3-hour online course is curated by travel professionals and is designed to help you get the most out of your adventure.
Does not include:
Flights, entry visa costs (if applicable), international and domestic airport taxes, meals, immunizations and medications (if needed).
