When people talk about animal welfare, the first image that comes to mind is almost always a kennel full of dogs waiting to be adopted. A sanctuary is something else: it is a place where animals who cannot go on to a family live out the rest of their lives, with space, care and people who know them by name.

A home, not a stopover

In a kennel or a shelter, the goal is for each animal to stay as short a time as possible. At the sanctuary, many of our residents will stay with us for good. Some because of their age, others because of a chronic illness, others because the temperament they carry from years of abandonment or mistreatment doesn't allow them to live in an ordinary home. They are not second-class animals: they are animals who need a different kind of home.

That is why a sanctuary isn't measured by the number of adoptions, but by the quality of life of those who live there. Each resident has their own corner, their own routine and the people they trust.

Not just dogs

At the Animais sem Fronteiras Sanctuary, in Alcochete, we have dogs of many breeds and ages, but also horses, pigs, cows, goats, sheep, billy goats and cats. Rescued farm animals rarely find a family: they need land, suitable shelter and specific care that few people can provide. Here they have all of that.

What every day demands

Running a sanctuary is an everyday job, with no bank holidays:

  • Food suited to each species, age and state of health, including the hay that has to be stored before winter.
  • Veterinary care: vaccinations, worming, surgery and long-term medication for the older ones.
  • Clean shelters, fresh water and dry bedding, come rain or shine.
  • Attention: walks, grooming, play and time. An animal learning to trust people again needs, above all, consistency.

Those who can go on to a family

The sanctuary doesn't close the door on adoption. Animals who are ready for a home look for a family, and the association stays close by after the adoption. Those who can't be adopted stay, and that's where sponsors, members and volunteers come in.

How you can be part of it

The sanctuary exists because there are people who support it. You can sponsor a resident, become a member, come and volunteer or make a donation. And you are always welcome to visit us, by appointment, to meet the animals who live here.