Nestled in the scenic hills of Skiathos, away from the bustling tourist hotspots, lies a sanctuary dedicated to providing care and hope for the island’s stray and abandoned dogs: the Skiathos Dog Shelter. This vital organization plays a crucial role in animal welfare on the island, offering a stepping stone towards a better life for countless canines.
The Heart Behind the Haven:
The Skiathos Dog Shelter wasn’t established by a large international organization, but rather through the compassionate efforts of individuals who recognized the urgent need to address the plight of stray animals on the island. While the exact origins can be traced back to the concerns of residents witnessing increasing numbers of stray dogs in the mid-1990s, the shelter’s continued existence and growth are thanks to the dedication of long-term volunteers and animal lovers.
One of the key figures deeply involved with the shelter for many years has been Helen Bozas, who first came to Skiathos in the 1970s and was moved by the number of stray animals. Over the years, she became a central figure in rescuing and caring for these animals, eventually leading to the more formal establishment of the shelter. Today, dedicated individuals like Nina Lobregt and Sarah, along with a team of local and international volunteers, continue this crucial work. Their unwavering commitment is fueled by a love for animals and a desire to see every dog find a loving forever home.
A Sanctuary in the Hills:
The Skiathos Dog Shelter is located inland, off the main road between Skiathos Town and Koukounaries, near the junction for Troulos. As you head inland and uphill, you’ll find clear signs directing you to the shelter. Its location amongst the pine trees offers a peaceful and safe environment for the dogs, with breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea. While it’s a bit of a journey from the main tourist areas, the reward is seeing the positive impact of the shelter’s work.
How Tourists Can Make a Difference:
As a non-profit organization, the Skiathos Dog Shelter relies heavily on the generosity and support of locals and tourists alike. If you’re visiting Skiathos and have a soft spot for animals, there are several meaningful ways you can contribute:
- Visit the Shelter and Walk a Dog: This is perhaps the most direct and rewarding way to help. Tourists are warmly welcomed to visit the shelter (usually open mornings, Monday to Saturday). Spending time with the dogs, taking them for walks in the surrounding hills, and offering them some affection can significantly improve their socialization and well-being. It’s a fantastic opportunity to connect with these lovely animals and experience a different side of Skiathos.
- Donate Food and Supplies: The shelter always has a need for dog food (both dry and wet), puppy food, cat food, cleaning supplies (like bleach and disinfectant), blankets, towels, and sturdy dog toys (avoiding soft toys that get easily damaged). Before visiting, it’s a good idea to contact the shelter or check their social media pages to see if they have any specific urgent needs. You can often purchase these items from local pet shops in Skiathos Town or near the airport.
- Offer Financial Donations: Monetary contributions, no matter the size, are invaluable. They help cover essential costs such as veterinary care (including vaccinations, neutering, and treatment for illnesses and injuries), building and maintenance of the shelter facilities, and ongoing food supplies. Donations can often be made in person at the shelter or through their website or social media platforms.
- Volunteer Your Time: If you have more time to spare during your holiday, consider offering your time as a volunteer. Tasks can include cleaning kennels, feeding the dogs, assisting with walks, and providing general care and attention. Even a few hours of your time can make a big difference to the daily running of the shelter.
- Spread Awareness: Even if you can’t physically visit the shelter or donate, you can still help by spreading awareness about their work. Follow their social media pages (often found under “Skiathos Dog Shelter” or similar), share their posts, and tell your friends and family about the shelter’s important mission.
- Consider Adoption: If you are a resident of Greece or are able to arrange transport to your home country (many dogs are successfully rehomed to the UK and other European countries), consider giving a deserving dog a loving forever home. The shelter staff can guide you through the adoption process.
Visiting the Skiathos Dog Shelter offers a heartwarming experience and a chance to give back to the local community in a meaningful way. These abandoned animals, often overlooked, deserve love, care, and a chance at a happy future. By dedicating a small part of your holiday to the shelter, you can make a real difference in the lives of these deserving dogs and contribute to the wonderful work being done by the dedicated volunteers.