Santuario de animales Dharma

At Dharma we have endless water and the land is full of trees and vegetation. Being almost flat, all the hectares are usable for the animals; they have plenty of space to roam freely. We have access to the river from within the Sanctuary. We generate our own electricity using solar panels. There are different species that live together in harmony in the same space. There are many animals around the house with whom you will share tender moments. There is a lot of peace. We are just a few minutes from the village, and access is easy. There is mobile coverage and we have Wi-Fi in several areas.

Unlike other places, here we have a real volunteer program, where we do not require the typical responsibilities of a worker. We adapt to the conditions of volunteering. You come to help, not to work.

Your action will have a direct impact on the lives of the animals rescued, in such a way that every task you perform will contribute to their happiness and well-being.

Being with the animals allows you to form unique connections with them, and it also allows you to learn about their habits, needs and care.

We are located on land near the Tiétar River, which will allow you to enjoy a variety of fauna and flora.

Meet people who share that love you feel for animals. Be part of a group of people committed to them.

Volunteer at Santuario Dharma: a unique but demanding experience

Santuario Dharma is a home for almost 200 rescued animals, where every day we work hard to ensure their well-being. We offer the opportunity to live with them, care for them, and learn from their stories, but we want to be transparent: life here is not easy.

This is not a place for anyone seeking only tender moments with animals. In addition to feeding and caring for the sanctuary's inhabitants, there are physically demanding tasks such as cleaning spaces or working on the construction of different areas. During winter, the cold is intense; you need to know how to adapt to rustic conditions.

We are a sanctuary that is just starting, which means there is still a lot to build. There are no conveniences here; living in the countryside requires adapting to a rural environment very different from city life.

Caring for animals is not just a nice task; it is a great responsibility because after all there are lives under your care. Each task, no matter how small, directly impacts their well-being, and that is why we seek committed, responsible, and mindful people who understand what this work entails. It is not just about caring for animals, it is being part of something much bigger.

Also, we want to emphasize that we are vegan people. In line with the values that underpin this sanctuary, which is based on respect and love for animals, we ask visitors to also respect this principle while they are here. This means not consuming animal-derived products, whether in food, clothing, or other areas. The sanctuary exists precisely to rescue animals from exploitation, and we hope that those who accompany us share and respect this approach during their stay.

If you think you can handle the challenge, we would be happy to welcome you.

Would you like to learn more about our rescue stories and the day-to-day life of the Sanctuary? By following us on Instagram @Santuario_Dharma, you will not only support our cause but also help spread the message of love and respect for all animals. Your support makes it possible for us to keep protecting and caring. 💚

Follow us, share, and be part of this beautiful community!

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Reviews

5.0
(27 reviews)27

Staff & Host

5.0

Hours & Tasks

4.5

Hostel

5.0

Learning & Fun

5.0
About the experience in: Toledo, Spain

Austria

3

Fran was very kind and I really enjoyed spending time with the shelter. However, during my stay I didn't feel entirely comfortable and at times I felt that I wasn't really included by the other people who were there. Since I was new, I would have liked there to be a bit more communication and for someone to explain a little better how things generally worked. For this reason, and also for some personal reasons, I decided to leave earlier than planned.

about 2 months ago


Fran replied

We find your comment very surprising, since the lack of communication was solely on your part. We explained everything to you and even offered to try to communicate in English, because, seeing that you neither spoke nor reacted to anything, we did not know if you didn't understand or simply didn't want to talk to us. You didn't even give us the opportunity, as you spent most of the time in your room and, in fact, you told us that your somewhat uncommunicative attitude was due to your personal problem...

About the experience in: Toledo, Spain

Chile

5

The refuge is a precious place, which I recommend visiting with an open heart to hand it over to the refuge and they, each in their own way, will do the same with you. It is very nice to see how, day by day, you get to know them and you discover something unique about the personality of each one. Fran and Sabela make coexistence very pleasant and it is evident that their priority is the well-being of the refuge. Sabela is like a mother to everyone and is incredibly patient. Moreover, the tasks are simple and there is always something to do. I leave with very fond memories and many ideas for vegan recipes to try 🤍

about 2 months ago

About the experience in: Toledo, Spain

Spain

5

It is like a small home in the mountains. The work is simple and rewarding, being with the shelter. The days pass calmly as new spontaneous activities arise. You lead a slow lifestyle but nothing boring, because there is always something to do: to build, to feed, to take care, or simply to spend time with the shelter, volunteers or hosts in the house, the meadows or even the river. The communal life is warm and close, especially thanks to Sabela, who loves all the shelter with all her heart and also cooks wonderfully. A shelter that is worth it.

2 months ago

About the experience in: Toledo, Spain

Spain

5

It has been a very enriching experience. Fran and Sabela are incredibly flexible and make the stay very pleasant. They take great care of all the animals at the shelter, and it's very easy to learn from them. I would highly recommend it; it's an experience everyone should be able to live at some point.

2 months ago

About the experience in: Toledo, Spain

Venezuela

5

Spending two weeks at the sanctuary has been incredible; Sabela, Fran, and Ray could not have treated me better. They explained in detail the story behind each animal and how each one has its own personality. I had the opportunity to feed them and learn about their care. Also, I ate some delicious vegan dishes, thanks to Sabela❤️. It has been an experience I will surely repeat in the future! I carry Suri especially in my heart 💘 Thank you so much for everything!!!

3 months ago


Perfect for you if you're looking for

Contact with nature

Vegetarian / Vegan

Rural

Contact with animals