Volunteering Programme

Enjoy providing our rescued animals with emotional and medical care at our two professional and ethical shelters in Sri Lanka!

International volunteers, veterinary students, animal trainers and animal lovers (minimum age: 18), who wish to combine a gratifying volunteer experience while enjoying the rich cultural heritage and beauty of Sri Lanka, are welcome!

Our 250 dogs and numerous cats are under the care of a dedicated staff and a well-established veterinary facility (see suwanapetcare.com). The Animal Wellness Trust (AWT) has two shelters: one by the beach with a swimming pool and the other in a lush 2 ½ acre green estate. Accommodation is available at both shelters at a minimal cost (20 USD) per day. All proceeds are channeled to medical treatment for sick or injured stray dogs and cats.

Activities include helping the staff feed, bathe, groom and play with the dogs and cats, and walking the dogs in a green natural area or on the beach. Twice a week, volunteers will have the opportunity to work with Dr. Shobath at his veterinary hospital and have hands on experience in assisting with sterilizations, surgeries, and other medical treatments.

Meals can be provided upon request. Both locations are walking distance to supermarkets and restaurants. Both locations are easily accessible by public transport. Both locations are 45 to 60 minutes from the City of Colombo. Airport transfers can be arranged upon request. Hotel accommodation (3 stars) at a reasonable cost is also available at walking distance (2 minutes) from the shelter situated on the beach.

What is not included: flights, visa, travel, and health insurance.

Updated COVID Safety information (February 2022): all our staff are fully vaccinated, there is no need for quarantine upon entering Sri Lanka, and the hospitals are not full.

If you are interested, please send us an email to: volunteers@animalwellnesstrust.org