The Dog Care Clinic Volunteer Program – Sri Lanka
The Dog Care Clinic (DCC) was founded in 2007 by Marina Möbius in Mihiripenna, southern Sri Lanka. Since then, it has grown into one of the most comprehensive animal welfare projects in the country. Sri Lanka still faces severe challenges when it comes to animal welfare: uncontrolled reproduction of street dogs, lack of access to veterinary care, poverty among pet owners, and little public education regarding animal protection. For many animals, the Dog Care Clinic is the last place of refuge.
Our work focuses on large-scale castration and vaccination programs, the treatment of sick and injured animals, daily feeding of street dogs, and the long-term care of animals that cannot survive on their own. In addition to dogs, we also care for other animals such as ungulates. Animal welfare at DCC is closely linked to social responsibility: by supporting poor and elderly people with animal-related programs, we combine compassion for animals with help for the local community. Education and respectful cooperation with the surrounding villages are a central part of our mission.
About the Volunteer Program
As a volunteer at the Dog Care Clinic, you actively support our daily animal care operations. Your role is practical, hands-on, and meaningful. Volunteers are not observers but part of the daily routine, helping wherever support is needed. Tasks vary depending on the needs of the clinic, emergencies, and your personal skills and interests.
Typical volunteer activities include preparing and distributing dog food, caring for puppies and disabled dogs, grooming, basic hygiene care (ears, nails, skin), parasite removal, assisting with medication, and spending time socializing the animals. Volunteers also accompany our daily feeding tours and dog visiting tours outside the clinic, where we care for street dogs in surrounding areas.
Working Environment and Location
The Dog Care Clinic is located in Mihiripenna, a quiet coastal village close to Unawatuna in southern Sri Lanka. The area offers a unique mix of tropical nature, rice fields, village life, and nearby beaches. Volunteers live in modern, comfortable apartments with air conditioning, either in our volunteer house or in equivalent nearby accommodation. The environment allows for both focused work at the clinic and time to unwind in nature or at the beach.
At the clinic, up to 400 dogs live on our large, green premises. Many of them require daily medication or special care. The clinic operates 365 days a year and employs around 80 local staff members, making it a professional and well-structured workplace.
Who You Will Be Working With
Volunteers work closely with our experienced Sri Lankan team, including animal caretakers, veterinary staff, and coordinators. The clinic is managed according to European standards, and our veterinarians receive regular training. You will also work alongside other international volunteers, creating a supportive, team-oriented atmosphere. Throughout your stay, you will be accompanied by our on-site team, and there is also a contact person in Germany available if needed.
Expectations and Requirements
We are looking for responsible, committed, and reliable volunteers who genuinely care about animal welfare. The animals are always our top priority. This program is not suitable for people seeking a party-focused travel experience. Volunteers should be emotionally stable, as they will encounter injured, neglected, and sometimes severely ill animals.
No special professional equipment is required. Volunteers should bring practical clothing suitable for tropical heat, outdoor work, and rain, as well as good, non-slip footwear. Respectful behavior towards staff, locals, and animal owners is essential. An interest in Sri Lankan culture and openness to learning is highly appreciated.
In return, volunteers can expect structured guidance, meaningful tasks, close contact with animals, and the opportunity to gain deep insight into real-life animal welfare work in a challenging environment.
