A word from our volunteers
In this section we will post stories from our volunteers that come through the year.
Melissa's story
I first volunteered at the Skiathos Dog Shelter in August 2024 for 3 weeks, during the busiest and hottest period of the summer. I was amazed to see how many people visited the shelter each day to walk the dogs and offer support, there was such a fun and lively atmosphere. The main tasks for me as a volunteer were to feed the dogs, clean the kennels, and to prepare the dogs for their daily walks and to greet the many visitors.
I returned in March 2025 for 5 weeks, the weather was cool, wet at times, and we saw very few visitors until my final week when the first direct flights arrived. I noticed how quiet it was up on the hill, with just a handful of staff in each day it had a very different feel to the summer. This time the main tasks were feeding, cleaning the kennels, doing the daily walks, as well as some much needed maintenance work like painting the fencing and houses, deep cleaning water bowls and dog baskets and making some nice pictures and videos of the dogs for the website.
By the time my second visit was ending, visitors were starting to come up again and the lively atmosphere had returned. It was interesting to see how the shelter operates in two different seasons and the different ways of working from summer to winter.
The highlight of my recent trip was to make friends with a very very shy dog named Stella who had arrived the month before me. Stella was very nervous and untrusting of almost everyone around her, but after a little time and patience, Stella became very brave and would run to greet me at the gate her tail wagging and making cute little noises, it was such a joy to see how far she has come in such a short time, Im sure Stella will be stealing many hearts this summer
Zuzanna and Edmund's Story
We first visited the shelter in 2017 - and came back every year since. Walking the dogs became our tradition, and every summer, except for the Covid years, we came back and did the morning walks.
As we both had dogs growing up, and have had a Staffordshire for six years now, we are used to bigger and more challenging dogs. During the summer 2024, we volunteered for a week, and when we came home we knew that we had to go back as soon as possible.
A month after, we booked the tickets and counted down the days. Additionally, we created a fundraiser, as our plans raised a lot of interest among our family, friends and colleagues - and we saw a possibility to bring something extra to the dogs.
But over to our stay - which was the best holiday we have had yet. We worked at the shelter for 12 days. The days consisted of feeding and walking the dogs, and cleaning the pens. In addition, when the schedule allowed it, we cut some claws and brushed the dogs. And of course - many visits to the pens for the daily cuddles.
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Although we came in October, there were still some tourists on the island that visited the shelter, so we also assisted with giving dogs to them for walking, as well as presenting the shelter and the volunteer work. We were happy to share our story with the visitors, and praise all the great work that is done by the staff.
During the second week, we took some of the dogs for an outing to the beach, for one-on-one time after work. This was an amazing experience both for us and the dogs - we were able to bond with the dogs on another level, and experience their joy when they encountered the beach and water. These outings were also a perfect opportunity to observe the dogs outside the shelter, and their reaction to new environments. This is an important part of the adoption process, as the shelter has then more information about the dogs for the prospective new owners.
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​​​​​Before arriving the island, we were curious to experience it off the season, and see how it all looks without all the tourists. We were smitten by the peace and quiet. The sea was still warm and nice, and the weather allowed for sun bathing (at least for us from Norway). Many restaurants are still open in the town, and it is possible to enjoy the island - in your own pace. Although we came to Skiathos to volunteer and help the dogs, the shelter staff did our stay even better. The daily lunch breaks were filled with interesting conversations and a lot of laughter. The people that work there are welcoming, warm and put the dogs and the shelter as their first priority. Their dedication to the dogs touched us, and we want to thank you for having us and welcoming us as warmly as you did - we will definitely be back.
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Caroline's Story
During my summer vacation, I visited Skiathos dog shelter and immediately knew I wanted to
contribute by volunteering. I reached out via email and soon found myself on the beautiful island of
Skiathos, ready to help.
Each morning, Nina—who works at the shelter full-time—graciously offered me a ride. Upon arrival,
I received a warm welcome from everyone and quickly became familiar with the shelter layout.
Although I eventually tackled tasks independently, assistance was always nearby if needed. The
shelter dogs proved to be incredibly friendly, and I never once felt uneasy during my stay.
As a volunteer, my primary duty involved caring for Henry's pen, home to 14 small dogs.
Responsibilities included feeding, cleaning the pen (including picking up after the dogs), freshening
up their sleeping quarters, washing water bowls, and raking the gravel. Once these chores were
completed, I took groups of dogs for walks before assisting with additional duties like cleaning,
helping others, and addressing daily priorities.
Volunteering brought immense satisfaction each day, and I feel grateful for having experienced it.
Rest assured, whenever I return to the island, I will continue supporting the wonderful work done by
the shelter team.
During my time there, I developed a special bond with Swiffer (now named Maui).
Given that my husband and I live aboard a sailboat, we agreed to adopt a dog meeting specific
criteria: courage, appropriate size and weight, compatibility with cats, and other factors. To our
delight, Swiffer turned out to be the perfect fit. She confidently navigated our boats movements,
explored the deck without hesitation, and displayed endearing affection.
It wasn't long before my husband shared my enthusiasm, leading to Swiffer becoming a cherished member of our family. Together, we look forward to sharing unforgettable experiences and providing her with a fulfilling life. Embarking on this journey brings us great excitement, and we eagerly anticipate beginning this thrilling new chapter.
