Go with an open mind. It’s helping animals in a shelter, it’s not the best environment however the pay off is heart warming. To arrive in the morning to a group of animals that are genuinely excited to see you, you clean their environments, socialise and feed them. Then to see them happy and content just for another day was for me absolutely a special feeling, happy tears to see them sleeping comfortably. Every day was special ❤️
Animal Care Volunteer Project in Croatia - Split
Purpose
Care for & rehome abandoned animals
Start dates
Programs start every first and third Monday of the month
Duration
Choose from 2-12 weeks
Volunteer hours
Up to 4 hours per day
Age
Volunteers aged 18+
Accommodation
Dormitory-style hostel
Who is going?
Group video calls
Once you have secured your place, join regular video calls to meet your Program Manager and other volunteers before your trip.
This program is ideal for:
Volunteers who are passionate about animals and animal rights. You’ll have the opportunity to learn about animal welfare in a different country while being part of a team that shares the same passion as you.
Project details
Ready to make some four-legged friends as an Animal Care volunteer in Croatia? International Volunteer HQ’s Animal Care project is a great way for volunteers to help improve life and conditions for abandoned cats and dogs in overcrowded animal shelters in the seaside town of Split. Volunteers gain experience caring for the health and wellbeing of animals while giving them time, love, and the best chance of getting adopted.
What to expect and how you'll make an impact
Animal shelters in Croatia play a crucial role in rescuing countless cats and dogs abandoned by their families. These shelters often face overcrowding, and volunteers are essential in providing care, socialization, and love to these animals, helping them thrive and increasing their chances of finding a forever home.
As an Animal Care volunteer, you’ll assist local staff with daily tasks and help raise community awareness about the importance of preventing animal abandonment. Your day-to-day duties will include:
- Engaging with Animals: Play with dogs and cats, monitor their progress, and ensure they receive plenty of love and attention.
- Walking Adventures: Take the dogs for walks in the surrounding areas, giving them exercise and fresh air.
- Hands-On Care: Bathe, brush, and observe the behavior of dogs and cats to ensure their health and happiness.
- Shelter Maintenance: Assist with cleaning tasks and maintaining all areas of the shelter, including green spaces, animal enclosures, and public areas.
- Creative Contributions: Design and create new toys and entertaining spaces for the animals, enhancing their quality of life.
- Visitor Engagement: Create welcoming recreational spaces where visitors can relax, pet the animals, and enjoy quality time with them.
- Community Building: Foster a familiar and informative environment, making the shelter a warm and inviting place.
- Event Planning: Help prepare and organize innovative and beneficial events both inside and outside the shelter.
- Innovation and Ideas: Suggest new ideas to help the organization improve its mission to support and care for animals.
- Capture Memories: Take pictures at different events and around the shelter, showcasing the positive impact of your work.
Rest assured that all animals in the shelter are fully vaccinated, ensuring a safe and healthy environment for both volunteers and animals.
Why do Animal Care volunteering in Split with IVHQ?
While volunteering with animals in Croatia you’ll be adding value to the local community, while also developing personally and professionally by:
- Giving abandoned animals a brighter future
- Helping animals get along with people
- Learning or practicing Croatian
- Gaining animal care experience
- Immersing yourself fully in Croatian culture
- Exploring the picturesque coast of Split
Volunteer requirements
Volunteers need to be 18 years or over to participate on this program. If you are under the age of 18, IVHQ offers alternative volunteer opportunities for teens. Visit our High School Volunteer Abroad High School Volunteer Abroad page to learn more.
All volunteers must have adequate volunteer travel insurance and provide a recent criminal background check.
Are you eligible to volunteer?
Submit a free application so we can confirm your eligibility and check availability for your preferred dates.
Not sure which program to join?
Get personalized recommendations >
Who is going?
Group video calls
Once you have secured your place, join regular video calls to meet your Program Manager and other volunteers before your trip.
Croatia photo gallery
IVHQ Marine Conservation project
IVHQ Animal Care project
IVHQ Animal Care project
IVHQ Marine Conservation project
IVHQ Marine Conservation project
IVHQ Marine Conservation project
IVHQ Marine Conservation project
IVHQ Marine Conservation project
IVHQ Marine Conservation project
IVHQ Marine Conservation project
IVHQ Marine Conservation project
Exploring Split during an IVHQ weekend
Exploring Split during an IVHQ weekend
Exploring Split, Croatia during an IVHQ weekend
Exploring Split during an IVHQ weekend
Exploring Split during an IVHQ weekend
What recent volunteers said about their IVHQ experience
AK
Anthony Kozbasic
26 Aug 2024
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TP
Thomas Payne
12 Jun 2024
I loved the experience, mainly because of all the new people I met and now consider my friends, I think it’s great for people that a travelling by themselves for the first time (like me) and I have definitely grown as a person.
...
GW
Grace Woodbury
12 Jun 2024
I feel that I gained not only confidence in travelling abroad but also a new perspective on how animal shelters work in a foreign country. For someone hesitant I would say just do it, push yourself and go do it, it will all work out great.
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JA
Jenna Austin
22 Mar 2024
The experience was very welcoming and helped me grow as an individual.
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NB
Neve Boundy
12 May 2022
This was such an amazing experience! I was worried that I was going to be alone at first but I ended up meeting so many amazing people and we became friends straight away. I’m so glad that I did this, I wish I could’ve stayed longer!
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ME
Mai Elhaggar
03 Nov 2021
If you’re new to volunteering, just like I was, IVHQ is definitely the right choice and the best decision I’ve ever made! Every single detail was taken care of, from the volunteer work itself, to the accommodation. I already can’t wait for next summer so I can volunteer again!
...
To read all reviews, visit our reviews page.
Academic course credit
Academic course credit
Gain course credit from your college or university and meet your academic requirements when completing a volunteer abroad program with International Volunteer HQ!
Learn about course creditLocation
Location
The IVHQ Croatia volunteer program is based in Split, a vibrant seaside spot on the Mediterranean coast and the second largest city in Croatia. This is a golden opportunity to volunteer in Europe in a place high up on every traveller’s bucket list. Split is a popular tourist hub because of its scenic ocean views, rich culture and authentic Croatian feel.
Volunteer placements are located in and around Split with the Marine Conservation project based in Omiš. While Split is a well developed city, it does have pockets of under-served communities, social and environmental issues and local initiatives that need volunteer help. By choosing to volunteer here, you’ll be supporting community-led projects that focus on providing opportunities to improve the livelihoods and wellbeing of the local community.
Arrival and orientation
The Croatia volunteer program begins on the first and third Monday of every month, and you need to arrive in Split on the Sunday before your chosen start date.
After you have registered for the program, please book your flights to arrive at Split International Airport (SPU).Your airport pick-up is included in your Program Fee, however, if you arrive outside of Sunday between 9:00AM - 09:00PM, your pick-up will incur an extra cost of AU$121.
When you arrive, you will be greeted at the airport by a member of the local team and taken to the volunteer accommodation, approximately 40 minutes away. Your accommodation is covered by your Program Fee and includes the night before your program orientation.
If you are travelling in Croatia prior to your volunteer program, we can arrange for you to be picked up from a meeting point in Split on the Sunday before your program start date. You are also free to make your own way to the volunteer accommodation.
On Monday, orientation is hosted by our local team in Croatia and runs for a full day. Orientation covers everything you need to know for your volunteer program in Croatia – an introduction to Croatia, Croatian customs, rules and expectations, safety, travel opportunities in Croatia, and an introduction to your project and placement. The orientation will also give you a chance to meet other volunteers and swap contact details for weekend travel and socialising.
Volunteer schedule example
Weekdays:
A volunteer day is subject to change depending on your specific project and placement. A typical daily schedule might be as follows:
| 8:00 - 10:00 AM | Breakfast is served at the restaurant next door to volunteer accommodation. |
| 9:00 AM | Volunteers with a morning shift travel to placement to join local placement staff and begin work on your project. |
| 12:00 - 2:30 PM | Lunch is served at the restaurant next door to volunteer accommodation. |
| 2:30 PM | Volunteers with an afternoon or evening shift travel to placement to join local placement staff and begin work on their project. |
| 7:30 - 9.00 PM | Dinner at the restaurant next door to volunteer accommodation. After dinner you will have the remainder of the evening free to relax and use as you wish. |
Weekends:
Volunteers have the weekends free and Split and Croatia are full of interesting things to do, see, visit, eat and learn.
Croatia has a wondrous history and culture, paired with beautiful coastline and nature. You can spend a weekend traveling across the country - visit the popular Klis fortress that is only a short drive from Split, or spend the day in nature surrounded by waterfalls in Krka National Park or Plitvice National Park. If you are looking for an adventurous activity, try rafting down the river in Dalmatian hinterlands, or sea-kayaking the beautiful see-through Adriatic Sea. There is so much to see and explore, and nothing is far away in Croatia!
Volunteers can make travel arrangements further afield once in Croatia, with the advice and guidance of our local staff.
Accommodation and WiFi
Experience the vibrant heart of Split from our cozy, dormitory-style hostel, perfectly situated just a 10-minute stroll from the city center. Conveniently located, the nearest bus station is only a 5-minute walk away, and you’ll find a delightful array of local amenities including coffee shops, a pizzeria, a supermarket, a pharmacy, an ATM, and more, all within a short walk.
The hostel is divided into three dormitories, typically arranged by gender, though during peak times, shared-gender dorms may be utilized. You’ll have the opportunity to meet and connect with fellow volunteers, sharing a room with up to seven others. Each volunteer is provided with a personal locker to keep their valuables safe, and you’ll enjoy free WiFi and air conditioning throughout your stay. The communal areas include a dining room, a lounge, and a well-equipped kitchen with fridges, microwaves, and basic utensils for your convenience.
Shared bathrooms are separated by gender and feature Western toilets and showers. Bedding and towels are provided for each volunteer, and while our local staff ensure the accommodation is cleaned throughout the week, we encourage volunteers to keep their spaces tidy to maintain a pleasant atmosphere.
For those seeking a bit more privacy, we offer private room upgrades upon request, and subject to availability. These rooms are located within a 20-minute walk of the hostel and are self-catered. Enjoy the added benefit of lunch and dinner at our partner restaurant, giving you a taste of the local cuisine, while breakfast can be enjoyed at your leisure.
Meals
Indulge in flavorful meals daily as part of your volunteer experience! Start your day with a self-serve breakfast at the volunteer accommodation, featuring a variety of options such as cereals, butter, marmalade, cream cheese, ham, milk, coffee, and bread.
For lunch and dinner, savor diverse and appetizing dishes at the local restaurant, offering a range of choices to suit every palate.
In Croatia, tap water is safe to drink. To support eco-friendly practices, we encourage you to bring a reusable drink bottle. However, bottled water is also available for your convenience at an estimated cost of just AU$8 per week.
Accommodation living room
Accommodation living room
Accommodation kitchen
Typical volunteer bedroom
Typical volunteer bedroom
Typical volunteer bedroom
Typical volunteer bathroom
Typical volunteer bedroom upgrade
Typical volunteer bedroom upgrade
Typical volunteer bedroom upgrade
Typical volunteer bedroom upgrade
Typical volunteer bathroom upgrade
Typical volunteer bathroom upgrade
Typical volunteer bathroom upgrade
Typical volunteer meal
Typical volunteer meal
Typical volunteer meal
Pricing
Secure your place for just US$299 (approximately AU$503), pay your Program Fee later.
Spots are limited. For a Registration Fee of just US$299 (approximately AU$503) you secure your spot and unlock all our preparation and training tools.
You don't need to worry about paying your Program Fee until you get closer to your start date.
Duration |
Program FeeDue 30 days before you start, or within 48 hours if you register inside of 30 days. Covers the cost of hosting you.
|
|---|---|
| 2 weeks | $1,110 Equivalent to $79/day |
| 3 weeks | $1,520 Equivalent to $72/day |
| 4 weeks | $1,930 Equivalent to $69/day |
| 5 weeks | $2,340 Equivalent to $67/day |
| 6 weeks | $2,750 Equivalent to $65/day |
| 8 weeks | $3,570 Equivalent to $64/day |
| 10 weeks | $4,390 Equivalent to $63/day |
| 12 weeks | $5,210 Equivalent to $62/day |
- All programs attract a Registration Fee of US$299 (approximately AU$503) in addition to the Program Fee. This covers all pre-departure support services.
- A 5% international banking fee is added at point of payment.
- Recommended spending money: Volunteers in Croatia generally find US$80 to be sufficient for basic weekly expenses.
- Any changes or cancellations within 14 days of your start date are subject to a US$200 late change/cancellation fee.
- Breakfast, lunch and dinner
- Airport pick-up
- Accommodation
- 24/7 in-country support
- In-country program orientation
- Pre-departure support from your Program Manager
- Personalised preparation tools, guides and check lists
- Access to IVHQ’s preferred insurance and flights partners
- Discounts on language lessons
- Certificate of International Volunteer Service
Learn more about what's included in your IVHQ Registration Fee and Program Fee.
- Transport to and from your placement each day
- Return to the airport when your program finishes
- Flights
- Visa (if required), travel insurance (mandatory), vaccinations, criminal background check.
- Personal spending money for snacks, laundry, public transportation, drinks and leisure activities during your free time.
Popular add-ons & experiences in Split
Take your volunteer experience to the next level with these popular add-ons and experiences. Explore your options below and learn how to book them once you've been accepted onto the IVHQ Split program.
Airport Drop-off
Enjoy a stress free ride, arranged by our local team, from the volunteer accommodation back to Split airport.
AU$121
Airport Drop-off from Omis
Enjoy a stress free ride, arranged by our local team, from the volunteer accommodation back to Split airport.
AU$171
Extra Night of Accommodation in Omiš (shared room with three meals)
Arriving early or departing a few days after your program has finished? Book your extra nights of accommodation.
From AU$121
Check what's required to visit Croatia
Safety and support
Safety and support
IVHQ follows best practice and industry-leading health and safety procedures, which are regularly reviewed and optimized as part of the B Corporation recertification.
- All volunteers encouraged to complete our interactive pre-departure training.
- All local teams trained on best practice volunteer management & First Aid.
- All IVHQ programs are required to adhere to IVHQ's Risk Management Policy.
- All volunteers have access to 24/7 in-country support from our local team.
Essential country information
Essential country information
| Capital | Zagreb |
| Population | 4.7 million |
| Languages | Croatian |
| Currency | Croatian Kuna (HRK) |
| Time zone | UTC+02:00 |
Weather and climate
The Adriatic coast of Croatia, where our volunteer program is based, enjoys a Mediterranean climate of cool, rainy winters and hot, dry summers. Temperatures in Split range from 41°F to 50°F (5°C to 10°C) in winter and 79°F to 86°F (26°C to 30°C) in the summer, which runs from June to August.
Apply to check if you're eligible!
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