from 635€

Great 4.4rating (78)

Help Stray Dogs

location
2 - 24 weeks  ·  Age 17 - 50+

rating  Great 4.4  · 
  Verified by Volunteer World
  Good response rate

Highlights

  • Explore Chile's enchanting landscapes, from deserts to glaciers, making every day an adventure.
  • Bolster your resume with international volunteer experience, showcasing your commitment to global impact.
  • Expand your horizons, building invaluable intercultural skills through meaningful connections and shared experiences.
  • Forge lasting friendships with fellow international volunteers, uniting to make a difference.
  • Immerse in the allure of Santiago de Chile, a modern metropolis brimming with endless attractions and vibrant culture.

Especially suitable

Age 17+
Singles
Couples
Families
Groups
50+

About the program

Be a hero for street dogs in Santiago de Chile. Rescue, care, and rehabilitate these furry friends to give them a second chance! 🐶

The Issue
The streetscape of Chile's capital Santiago (and many other cities) is unfortunately dominated by stray dogs and cats. These animals are forced to be real survivors, as you can see from the fact that they have learned to wait side by side with the pedestrians at the traffic lights and then ...

About the program

The Issue
The streetscape of Chile's capital Santiago (and many other cities) is unfortunately dominated by stray dogs and cats. These animals are forced to be real survivors, as you can see from the fact that they have learned to wait side by side with the pedestrians at the traffic lights and then cross the street in the protection of the crowd with green! But many survive more badly than right: Due to the food from the garbage, untreated diseases and injuries, the health of these animals is often miserable.
The Program

Fortunately, there are people with a big heart for animals who are committed to saving and protecting them. You can be one of them when volunteering in this project! In our volunteer project in Santiago de Chile, local volunteers work alongside volunteers from around the world to improve the situation of the animals on the street. The aim is always to take care of the dogs and cats to such an extent that they find a new home with loving owners. If you love animals and want to help improve the lives of dogs and cats in Santiago, this project is for you. Combine your passion for animals with a good cause!

The Location

Santiago de Chile is located almost exactly in the middle of Chile, halfway between the north and south and also about half way between the Argentine border and the ocean. The capital of Chile is an amazing city and one of the few metropolises in the world where you can actually ask yourself the question: "Going to the sea today and skiing tomorrow, or would you prefer the other way around?" since beautiful beaches are at the same distance like world-class ski slopes (and trekking routes during summer) in the Andes Mountains. Santiago de Chile divides Chile into the fertile south and the dry, mineral-rich north. And the city itself has something for everyone: there are beautiful places to relax, old colonial buildings and a lively urban culture with museums, street artists, theaters and more; small craft markets and green meadows, countless restaurants and pubs in beautiful nightlife areas. And above all, there is the flair of an up-and-coming metropolis that combines the characteristics of a modern capital with those of a colonial city steeped in history. This is where the heart of Chile's economy and progress beats and about a third of the Chileans are at home here. The Santiaguinos are usually friendly and helpful people and as a foreigner you can quickly find a connection. Santiago is also home to numerous universities, which has led to a lively international student life, especially in the past two decades.

What we expect 

  • Be tolerant 

Please do not put prejudices of the foreign culture and other people into your luggage. You do not need that during your stay abroad! On the contrary, tolerance is a very important feature if you want to be successful and have fun while volunteering abroad. Respect the foreign culture, the other habits and the different mentality with great respect. While the other way of working may not always make much sense in your eyes, the goal of volunteering abroad is not to criticize or smile at people for acting and doing, but to work with them for a good cause. 

  • Be adaptable 

On a trip abroad, especially in developing countries, you leave your home comfort zone. It is very important that you are ready to adapt to a different life situation. In Latin America, you certainly will not find the usual standards of home again. Especially volunteer projects in developing countries are often located in very secluded areas in the middle of beautiful nature or you live with a local host family, who belongs to a foreign culture. But that's the exciting thing about volunteering abroad! Immerse yourself in a foreign land, experience culture, traditions and people up close, learn from them, just let go and adapt to the other life circumstances. A unique experience that will mature and grow you as a person! 

  • Team spirit 

In a voluntary work, the team idea is always over self-interest. Working in a team is fun and brings good mood and variety! So, for your volunteer work abroad, you should bring along a great deal of team spirit, because you always work together with other people, be it volunteers from other countries or local project staff. However, when so many foreign and diverse cultures meet, teamwork can become a whole new challenge. Even more important, that you have the ability to communicate in a group, work constructively and fairly and do not want to punch through your will at all costs. 

  • Be helpful and responsible 

For most projects, volunteers who "do a good job" are most appreciated. By participating in a voluntary service abroad, you are consciously choosing to work in another country. You are not on a vacation trip. So, you have choosen to offer your help and valuable time to other people, nature protection or animals welfare. What really matters is your helpfulness! A really very important and unavoidable trait is the sense of responsibility. The volunteer project is counting on your support and your cooperation has been tightly scheduled. A high level of responsibility is the alpha and omega. During your volunteer work in Latin America, you are assigned to certain areas of activity that you must do on your own. Please take your role as a volunteer very seriously and carry out your tasks in the project conscientiously and carefully. 

  • Be flexible 

Be prepared for the fact that volunteering in Latin America is much different from what you know or are used to at home. The Latin Americans have a completely different order, time and work understanding. Even their logic of approaching certain things may not always make much sense in your eyes. The different language and culture can quickly lead to misunderstandings or communication problems. An important principle for you: always be flexible and spontaneous! You will soon realize that there is a solution for all situations and that you can quickly develop a plan B from a problem.  

  • Be proactive and take initiative 

During your voluntary work abroad, do not expect someone to explain to you in a big way what needs to be done, where and when. Often there is only a brief introduction and then your proactivity and initiative are asked. Get actively involved, offer your help and see where you can best apply your skills and strengths. It is always great when volunteers constructively and friendly affix ideas and suggest their own small projects.



Typical day

No prior knowledge of animal care is needed for this type of volunteer work, but you should be patient and have a great sense of responsibility. Likewise, you must not be afraid of dogs and / or cats, because these are absolutely in the focus of this volunteer project.

Your tasks include:

  • Bathing, ...

Typical day

No prior knowledge of animal care is needed for this type of volunteer work, but you should be patient and have a great sense of responsibility. Likewise, you must not be afraid of dogs and / or cats, because these are absolutely in the focus of this volunteer project.

Your tasks include:

  • Bathing, feeding, and walking the animals 
  • Cleaning cages and equipment
  • Drug administration and support with sterilization procedures
  • Help with rescue operations where animals are brought in from the street 
  • Food distribution for animals that live on the street
  • Help with public relations and educational work (not all volunteers are involved)
  • Support in the adoption process (not all volunteers are involved)
  • Fundraising (not all volunteers are involved)

Note: The tasks may vary. They depend on factors such as number of volunteers, weather, season, current needs of the project, as well as self-motivation. Not every volunteer may be fully involved in all these tasks.


Free-time activities

In Santiago you can enjoy a variety of activities and experiences:

  • Plaza de Armas: Visit the main square, Plaza de Armas, to explore the Santiago Cathedral and the historic architecture. 
  • Cerro San Cristóbal: Hike or take a funicular to the top of this hill for breathtaking panoramic views of the ...

Free-time activities

In Santiago you can enjoy a variety of activities and experiences:

  • Plaza de Armas: Visit the main square, Plaza de Armas, to explore the Santiago Cathedral and the historic architecture. 
  • Cerro San Cristóbal: Hike or take a funicular to the top of this hill for breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the Andes. 
  • Museums: Explore Santiago's rich history and culture by visiting museums like the Chilean National Museum of Fine Arts and the Museum of Memory and Human Rights. 
  • Parks: Relax in the lush parks like Parque Forestal and Parque Bicentenario, ideal for picnics and leisurely walks. 
  • Food and Wine: Savor Chilean cuisine and wine at local restaurants, markets, and vineyards. 
  • Mercado Central: Visit the Central Market for a seafood feast in a bustling marketplace. 
  • La Chascona: Tour the former residence of famous poet Pablo Neruda, now a museum dedicated to his life and works. Barrio Bellavista: Explore the vibrant arts district filled with galleries, street art, and lively nightlife. 
  • Biking and Walking Tours: Join guided tours to explore the city on foot or by bike, learning about its history and culture. 
  • Day Trips: Take day trips to the beautiful Andes Mountains, Valparaíso, and Viña del Mar for coastal charm. Cultural Events: Participate in local festivals, concerts, and dance performances to immerse yourself in Chilean traditions.


Requirements

Requirements

Minimum Age: 17 years

In order to join the program you need to be at least 17 years old on the program start date.

Language Skills

You need to speak Spanish (basic level) or English (basic level)

Education Requirements

at High School level

Required Documents

CV and Volunteer Questionnaire

Nationality Restrictions

No restrictions. Helping hands from all over the world are welcome.

Time Commitment

Your helping hand will be required on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday

What's Included

What's Included

Services by South America Inside

  • Single room in Homestay
  • Internet access at homestay
  • Airport pick-up
  • Advice from our experienced staff
  • On-going support via WhatsApp, phone or mail
  • Elaboration of your application profile in Spanish
  • Your placement in the volunteer project
  • Pre-departure information
  • Packing list
  • Country handbook
  • Intercultural guide
  • On-site volunteer coordinator
  • 24/7 emergency number
  • Advice on travel insurance
  • Certificate of participation

Airport Pickup at Arturo Merino Benitez Airport

Upon your arrival at the airport of Santiago de Chile you will be picked-up. Our transfer service will bring your directly to your homestay.

Accommodation

We provide single rooms in local homestays. Food is not included but you will have access to a fully equipped kitchen where you can store and prepare your meals. You can also book a half-board suplement with daily breakfast & dinner.

Internet Access

Good access at the project site

What's NOT included?

What's NOT included?

Food & Beverages

Food, snacks or beverages are at extra costs.

Flight Tickets

The nearest airport is Arturo Merino Benitez Airport (SCL) in Santiago. We assist you to find cheap flights to Chile. FIND CHEAP FLIGHTS

Travel Insurance

Going abroad is an adventure and it is always best to be prepared. Sudden illness or injury, cancellation or theft - a travel insurance for Chile provides security and is a plus to have. GET A QUOTE

Vaccines

If you are intending to volunteer in Chile you should seek medical advice before starting your social journey. Check your required vaccinations for Chile. VACCINE CHECKER

Details on arrival

The volunteer work can be joined throughout the year. The start and end date can be set flexible, according to your availability and travel plans. Ask our experienced staff to coordinate your participation in this meaningful volunteer project.


Availability
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Program fees

2 weeks (min. stay) 635€
3 weeks 800€
4 weeks 965€
5 weeks 1,130€
6 weeks 1,314€
7 weeks 1,460€
8 weeks 1,625€
9 weeks 1,790€
10 weeks 1,955€
11 weeks 2,119€
12 weeks 2,284€
24 weeks (max. stay) 4,263€
Average fees 247€/week

Program fees

247€ per week 2 - 24 weeks Age 17 - 50+

Payment methods

Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

NO CREDIT CARD FEES


Duration

2 - 24 weeks

Deposit

The deposit is simply to reserve your volunteer placement. Payments are handled by PayPal, our trusted global payment provider. If you don't have a PayPal account, you can also pay using a credit card.


Final Payment

Your final payment will be agreed with South America Inside during the application process. Common solutions are either via bank transfer or a cash payment at the project site.


Meet your organization

South America Inside

Great 4.4 rating (78 reviews)

Agency - founded in 2003

Verified by Volunteer World

  Good response rate

Coordinated by

Marion

Spoken languages: German, Spanish, English

About the project

South America Inside promotes intercultural, linguistic and educational exchanges. Its volunteer programs are addressed to students, professionals and retirees.

Meet your organization

South America Inside is an intercultural management agency, founded back in 2003, which specializes in the promotion of programs abroad, language travel and educational programs throughout Latin America.

Since 2007, to enrich the experience of our global-minded clients and to provide them with even more possibilities, South America Inside has been expanding their program offerings throughout South and Central America.

Working together with some of the best language schools in Latin America, South America Inside provides high quality language courses in almost every Latin American country.

Thanks to a professional team of motivated and friendly staff, South America Inside has been very successful over the past several years and have been able to establish an outstanding network of what we call "Insider Contacts." To enrich the experience of their clients and to provide them with more possibilities, South America Inside has been expanding our program offerings throughout Central and South America, in addition to our well-established Chilean programs.

Volunteer Work

Do you dream of staying abroad while doing something positive? Are you looking for a unique experience that will leave a mark on your life? Then a Volunteer Work program in South America or Central America is perfect for you!

With South America Inside you can combine an adventure abroad with social commitment, and create lasting memories in Latin America. Support the protection of endangered species; help a local community construct new homes; give new hope to impoverished children.

The possibilities to lend a hand are diverse, as there are the many places where help is needed. We have classified our volunteer projects in different areas so you can easily find the one (or more!) projects that best match your needs and interests.

Why with us

There are many persuasive reasons that speak in favor of South America Inside when it comes to selecting your perfect provider of language, study and volunteer travel abroad. Following, we have prepared a short summary so that you can get us to know a little better.

Our Insider benefits at a glance:

  Regional Experience
Over one decade (established in 2003) of dedication to language, work and study travel programs in Latin America. Thanks to our long standing work and life experience in the South American continent, we know this region really well. Therefore, we can help and inform you in a professional and competent way.

  Multifaceted Offers
Over time we have developed new programs to offer a wide array of work abroad opportunities to our clients. We have been pioneers in launching new exchange programs, as we have been the first in offering Work & Travel/Working Holiday and Farm Stays in Chile and successfully introduced these programs into the market back in 2005. Since 2012, we are the only agency to offer this type of program in Costa Rica.

  Insider Advice
Despite living in the modern era of the internet, we know that reliable and competent advice is still an important criterion for most of us. At South America Inside, you will find the benefits of an internet provider and an independent travel agency. We will be glad to pass on our extensive knowledge and regional experience.!

  Location
It is difficult to run programs when there is nobody “on the ground” to evaluate existing options and search for new opportunities. So, we are located in Chile, on location, and we know everything that is going on first hand. We know what it is like to live as a foreigner in South America and will be happy to assist you in making your stay unforgettable!

  Independence
South America Inside is an independent provider of language courses, internships, volunteer work, Farm Stays and Work & Travel programs in Latin America. We neither depend financially nor structurally on any other company, language school, association or organization. Therefore, we are able to give personalized information in accordance to your needs and availability.

•  Multilingual Team

Our team is multilingual and international! We speak fluent English, Spanish and German, as well as some French and Portuguese. With our customers, we can communicate in their native language and we avoid misunderstandings with local partners by communicating in Spanish with them. You can be sure that there will be an English-speaking contact person for you before, during, and after your stay.

  Customer Service
Excellent customer service is one of the most important goals for South America Inside, and this is evident with the positive feedback we regularly receive from our many happy clients. Emails are answered within 48 business hours and every client is treated with the same friendliness and expertise.

  Gapless and Accurate Information flow
With South America Inside you will have one and the same contact person before, during and after your trip. With that said, we guarantee a gapless and accurate information flow and you will always be very well informed.

  Approved Program Places
Many of our program places, especially in the area of internships and volunteer work, are designed in the way that they will be recognized by most universities, colleges or academies.

78 reviews · rating4.4

Max rating5

2022 at Help Stray Dogs

Dear Melanie (from South America Inside), I would like to tell you that I enjoy working with Lidia very much. There are lots of activities and I can really bond with the animals. The other volunteers and workers are very friendly and really help me out. I am happy that I chose this activity and ...
GERALDINE QUIRKE rating3.2

2024 at Work in a National Park

When I scheduled volunteer time the indication was that there was a limited number of volunteers based on the projects/work to be done. As more and more volunteers arrived i realized that we were more valued for the money we paid than for the limited amount of work to be done. Also, I felt that ...
lyne bourbonnais rating3.8

2024 at Eco Farm Worker

j'ai bien aimé mon expérience à Antigua qui est une superbe ville facile à visiter. Vivre dans une famille, y prendre les repas est une très belle incursion dans la vie guatémaltèque. et quoi de mieux pour l'immersion en langue espagnole! eco farm: bien qu'au départ je n'ai pas bien saisi ...
Floriana D. rating5

2023 at Local Wildlife Helper

Hey there, I love my experience, it is amazing !!! Tomorrow I am going to visit and I am working, it's going very well ! Thank you for everything!! ...
Emilie Hasni rating4.2

2023 at Help Save Sea Turtles

Magnifique expérience avec les tortues et avec les autres volontaires aussi. Le cadre est magnifique, les couchers de soleil et les balades dans la nature autour du lieu du volontariat sont superbes. Petite info : si tu veux avoir internet, le seul réseau qui fonctionne est Kolbi. Nous on a ...
Ich bin gut auf der Osterinsel angekommen. Wurde von dem Projektleiter am Flughafen abgeholt. Er hatte sogar eine Kollegin mit, die deutsch spricht, sollte ich mit spanisch nicht so gut umgehen können. Echt toll! Die Unterkunft ist gut und ordentlich und groß, sie liegt am Ende der Ortschaft, ...

Location

Americas > South America > Chile > Santiago de Chile

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Contact Marion
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German, Spanish, English

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