The "Big" Sanctuary Care Experience

Be the Voice for the Voiceless in the Heart of Spain

Hosted by Santuario Vegan | Madrid, Spain

Located in the beautiful countryside just outside Madrid, Fundación Santuario Vegan is a pioneering force in Spanish animal rescue. Since 2011, this incredible organisation has provided a permanent, loving home for over 300 animals saved from the livestock industry. It is a powerful addition to the Eat Plants & Travel directory for conscious explorers wanting to go beyond traditional tourism and actively participate in the European animal liberation movement.

Unlike a standard sanctuary tour, visiting Santuario Vegan is a hands-on, deeply immersive volunteer experience. Depending on your length of stay, guests join the dedicated care staff on the frontlines of the sanctuary's daily operations. Your time is spent supporting the residents, which range from massive, gentle oxen to tiny rescued chicks. Tasks might include preparing food, maintaining the large enclosures, building new habitats, and assisting the most vulnerable elderly residents who require extra attention.

The atmosphere here is hardworking but incredibly rewarding. Volunteers often stay in simple, shared accommodation on or near the property, bonding with both local Spanish activists and international travellers over shared vegan meals at the end of the day. Working alongside these rescued animals and learning their individual stories of survival offers a profound, life-changing perspective. For those passionate about animal rights, dedicating time to Santuario Vegan delivers an unforgettable and deeply impactful Spanish experience.What to Expect

Prepare for long, rewarding days of physical labor and profound connection with rescued farm animals:

• The Daily Routine: Volunteer work involves the intensive cleaning of barn areas, preparing specialized feed for different species, and refilling water stations across the property.

• Medical Support: Help the team administer treatments or assist with the care of elderly or disabled residents who require extra attention.

• Sanctuary Upkeep: Work on fencing, gardening, and repairs to ensure the sanctuary remains a safe and beautiful haven for all residents.

• Advocacy in Action: Learn about the rescue stories of the animals and how the sanctuary uses social media and storytelling to promote a vegan world.

• Rustic Community: Stay in simple, shared accommodation on or near the sanctuary, bonding with Spanish and international activists over vegan meals.

Key Highlights

• Active Activism: Supporting the backbone of the animal rescue movement in Spain.

• Broad Experience: Working with a diverse range of species that you wouldn't typically meet in daily life.

• Cultural Exchange: Practicing your Spanish while working toward a common compassionate goal.