In Taiwan, the issue of stray dogs has been ongoing. You might have seen them on the streets or roadsides, but the actual number of stray dogs is more than you might imagine. According to data from animal protection sources, the 2020 national survey found that there were as many as 155,000 stray dogs. Over the years, the number of stray dogs has continued to increase, leading to overcrowding in shelters across Taiwan.
While the problem of stray dogs may not be solved overnight, there are many ways we can help them. In addition to adopting instead of buying, you can also help by paying attention to animal welfare issues, donating, and volunteering. Volunteering is a practical way to assist stray dogs. Below, we have compiled information on animal organizations in the Taipei area that are recruiting volunteers, so you might consider spending some time with these lovely strays during your free time.
Banqiao Animal Shelter Volunteer Team
The Banqiao Animal Shelter Volunteer Team is composed of working professionals who have been actively volunteering at the shelter every weekend since its establishment in 2013. Their volunteer activities include walking dogs, grooming, and feeding them. If you are interested in joining as a volunteer, you can visit their activity page to select a time slot and register. However, due to the pandemic, there are currently restrictions on the number of participants. It is advisable to inquire about availability by messaging their fan page.
The volunteer services include bathing dogs that are waiting for adoption. This not only helps improve the dogs' hygiene but also enhances their chances of being adopted by making them more presentable and comfortable around people.
Contact: Facebook Page
Zhang Mama's Stray Animal Home
Zhang Mama's Stray Animal Home is located in the mountains behind Pingxi Old Street in New Taipei City. Although it is somewhat remote and difficult to reach, the home is dedicated to caring for over 500 stray dogs within the area. Due to the large number of dogs, volunteers are greatly needed to assist with various tasks.
Volunteers can be categorized into two roles: adoption volunteers and dog garden volunteers. Those interested can apply through the official website. Adoption volunteers are required to assist with adoption events at Jianguo Flower Market or IKEA in Neihu on weekends. Dog garden volunteers, on the other hand, need to travel to Pingxi to help with tasks such as cleaning the dog garden, bathing the dogs, and other related services. Volunteers can participate based on their abilities.
Zhang Mama, an animal lover, has taken in and cared for numerous stray dogs. Her dedication to these animals is truly commendable, and her efforts are supported by the hard work of volunteers who contribute to the well-being of these dogs.
Contact: Website | Facebook Page
Taipei City Animal Protection Office: Volunteer Opportunities
The Taipei City Animal Protection Office offers two types of volunteer programs. One is specifically for students under the age of 18, focusing on service-learning. This program primarily operates on weekdays, with service hours ranging from 4 to 8 hours per day. Activities include caring for sheltered animals, guiding visitors, and handling simple administrative tasks.
The other volunteer program requires a long-term commitment of at least 72 hours over a year and is open to anyone aged 18 or older. Before starting, volunteers must undergo a two-month professional training and internship course. This program is more rigorous and requires a significant time commitment, so applicants should ensure they have sufficient time available before applying.
The Taipei City Animal Protection Office invites students under 18 to join in learning about caring for stray animals.
Contact: Website
Ancient Alliance: Supporting Stray Animal Homes
The Ancient Alliance is similar to the Banqiao Animal Home Volunteer Team, serving as a collaborative team for stray animal homes in Zhonghe and Xindian districts of New Taipei City. Every Saturday, volunteers visit these animal homes to provide services such as grooming, walking dogs, and environmental cleaning. To join, interested individuals can sign up through the activity page on the fan page.
The Ancient Alliance dedicates its efforts to providing love and care to stray animals, ensuring they spend every moment in happiness.
Contact: Facebook Page
Stray Animal Garden: A Haven for Dogs
The Stray Animal Garden differs from other animal shelters in its approach. Instead of permanent housing, it seeks temporary foster homes for stray dogs, often referred to as "midway homes". If your home has the space, you might consider offering a small area for these dogs to rest until they find a warm and loving family. Additionally, the garden requires volunteers for adoption events. If you wish to contribute, you can evaluate which volunteer service best suits your abilities.
Inside the shelter, adorable dogs await adoption. By providing temporary care or volunteering for events, you can make a significant difference in their lives. Whether it's offering a temporary home or helping with adoption activities, your support is invaluable to these animals.
Contact: Website
Volunteering with the R.O.C. Animal Protection Association
The R.O.C. Animal Protection Association offers a comprehensive volunteer program that allows individuals to engage deeply in animal welfare efforts. Their conservation center is located in Bali, New Taipei City, and they have previously conducted animal protection volunteer training programs. These programs provide thorough training, enabling participants to gain a deeper understanding of the association's animal welfare work and relevant legal regulations.
Volunteering Opportunities
- Bali Conservation Center Volunteers: Volunteers can participate in activities such as washing dogs, walking dogs, and maintaining environmental cleanliness. This hands-on experience allows volunteers to contribute directly to the care of animals at the center.
- "Dogs Come Home" Volunteer Program: Available in southern and central Taiwan, this program involves visiting foster homes in rural areas to photograph dogs and track their post-adoption lives. This initiative helps monitor the well-being of dogs in foster care and supports their integration into new families.
How to Get Involved
To participate in these volunteer opportunities, interested individuals can enroll in the training programs or directly sign up for volunteer roles at the Bali Conservation Center. The association's comprehensive training ensures that volunteers are well-equipped to support the organization's mission effectively.
Contact: Website
Volunteering with Stray Dogs: A Rewarding Experience
Volunteer opportunities for animal shelters are predominantly located in the northern regions, where the need for volunteers is substantial due to the large number of stray dogs. These shelters require regular assistance with cleaning and organizing the dog enclosures, as well as providing companionship to the dogs through walking and playtime. Before volunteering, it's essential to be mentally prepared, as this role may involve physical labor, such as cleaning the dog enclosures and bathing the dogs. The dogs can be quite energetic and may jump on you, potentially soiling your clothes. However, they are simply excited to see you, and for them, having someone to walk them can be the greatest joy.
Given the demands of this volunteer work, it's crucial to consider your capabilities before signing up. If you do commit, please ensure you attend on time. If unforeseen circumstances prevent you from attending, notify the organization in advance so they can arrange for additional help, avoiding overburdening other volunteers. Volunteering at a stray dog shelter is not an easy task, but the dogs will reward you with genuine and profound love.
There are many ways to help stray dogs, including donating money or food. If time permits, volunteering at a shelter is highly encouraged. The opportunity to be surrounded by so many adorable dogs is not common, making this experience truly unique. If you cannot volunteer but still want to interact with the dogs and contribute, consider visiting a halfway house café. There, you can spend time with the dogs while supporting their care through your purchases.
