In this article:
Introduction
Zanzibar is famous for its stunning beaches, rich culture, and vibrant atmosphere, but amidst the idyllic scenery, there’s another reality — stray dogs in need of care and attention. Visitors across the island often encounter these dogs and wonder how they can help or get involved in rescue efforts.
If you’re an animal lover visiting Zanzibar, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to make a meaningful difference. Local organizations are dedicated to rescuing and caring for stray dogs, and they welcome visitors to support their efforts through volunteering, donations, or simply spreading awareness.
Are There Dog Rescue Organizations in Zanzibar?
Although Zanzibar does not have a centralized dog rescue facility, several dedicated animal welfare organizations are actively working to improve the lives of stray dogs.
These groups focus on providing essential care such as vaccinations, medical treatment, and sterilization programs to control the stray population.
Operating in popular tourist areas, villages, and towns, they often rely on community support and volunteers to extend their reach and impact. Many of these organizations also educate locals about animal welfare, aiming to create long-term solutions for stray dog care on the island.
1. Zanzibar Animals Affection Society (ZAASO)
Nestled in Kianga, near Stone Town, ZAASO is a dedicated animal sanctuary and clinic that plays a vital role in animal welfare on Zanzibar. This non-profit organization focuses on rescuing and rehabilitating stray and abused animals while championing the importance of education and community involvement in fostering compassion for all creatures.
ZAASO is home to a diverse group of animals, including cats, dogs, donkeys, and even horses. While the main sanctuary provides daily care, the organization also collaborates with local establishments, such as the Melia Hotel in Kiwengwa, to extend its reach and resources.
Their work goes beyond treatment and rehabilitation—they host regular community clinics, run sterilization campaigns, and educate the public on ethical animal care. These efforts aim to create a lasting cultural shift toward kindness and respect for animals across Zanzibar and Pemba.
ZAASO also welcomes volunteers and interns to join their mission, offering a hands-on opportunity to make a difference. Whether through direct animal care, outreach programs, or supporting fundraising efforts, there’s a place for everyone to contribute.
Donations are crucial to ZAASO’s operations, as the organization relies solely on private contributions. Every bit of support goes a long way in providing medical supplies, maintaining the sanctuary, and expanding their impact.
To learn more, volunteer, or donate, you can reach out to ZAASO via email at [email protected] or call them at +255 (0)77 784 2823. Supporting ZAASO means being part of a meaningful effort to protect and uplift the lives of animals in Zanzibar.
2. Zanzibar Animal Care
Zanzibar Animal Care (Zacare) is a registered mobile veterinary clinic based in Zanzibar. The clinic provides a range of services aimed at delivering high-quality pet care directly to the doorstep, ensuring pets receive treatment in the comfort of their own homes.
Zacare’s services include vaccinations, treatments, surgeries, microchipping, deworming, and parasite control. The clinic also offers pet relocation services, helping with the process of moving pets both locally and internationally.
The clinic's approach is focused on convenience, ensuring that pet care is stress-free and accessible. Zacare’s team of experienced veterinarians is dedicated to delivering personalized care for each pet.
In addition to individual treatments, Zacare runs volunteer-driven campaigns to support homeless street cats and dogs in Zanzibar, providing them with medical care, sterilization, and vaccinations.
For those interested in supporting the cause, Zacare encourages donations and volunteers to join efforts in improving the lives of stray animals in the community.
Contact Information:
Phone: +255 678 330 897
Email: [email protected]
Address: Nungwi, Zanzibar, Tanzania
3. Zanzibar Vet Clinic Project
The Zanzibar Vet Clinic offers a rewarding opportunity for animal lovers and aspiring veterinarians to gain hands-on experience in a dynamic, real-world setting.
Situated on the beautiful island of Zanzibar, this project allows volunteers to make a tangible impact on local animal welfare, providing essential veterinary care and support to the community.
As a volunteer, you’ll work alongside skilled veterinarians and local staff to provide medical care to a variety of animals. Whether it’s participating in spay/neuter campaigns, treating injured animals, or assisting with general health check-ups, your contributions will directly benefit both pets and farm animals across the island.
The program operates through two key clinics: the Stone Town Clinic, offering a full range of services, including a surgical room and shelter for rescued animals, and the Jambiani Beach Clinic, located on the southeastern coast, specializing in sterilization programs for stray animals.
In addition to hands-on work with animals, volunteers will have the chance to engage with the local community through outreach trips and educational programs, helping raise awareness of animal welfare issues. Volunteers may assist with routine care, treatment of tropical diseases, and emergency cases, all while learning valuable skills from experienced professionals.
Accommodation is provided in shared rooms, with basic amenities, located close to the clinic. While meals are self-catered, there are plenty of local shops where you can purchase food.
The program runs year-round, with weekly start dates, and is open to volunteers aged 18 and over. For those seeking a more immersive experience, longer stays are available upon request.
This project is ideal for those seeking a meaningful volunteer experience in veterinary care, offering the chance to work in a supportive, hands-on environment while contributing to the well-being of Zanzibar’s animals.
How Tourists Can Help in Zanzibar
Tourists visiting Zanzibar have a valuable opportunity to support the welfare of stray dogs and other animals in the area. Whether through direct action or financial contributions, there are several ways to get involved and make a difference:
Volunteer with Local Caretakers
Participate in Island-Wide Clean-ups
Donate to Animal Welfare Initiatives
These efforts, supported by organizations such as ZAASO and Zanzibar Animal Care, play a crucial role in improving the lives of stray animals across Zanzibar, from feeding and walking to essential medical care.
Volunteering or donating ensures that local animals receive the care they need, contributing to a safer and more compassionate environment for everyone.
Why Helping Matters
The stray dog population in Zanzibar presents a significant challenge due to limited resources for spaying, neutering, and medical care. Many of these animals face malnutrition, injury, and disease.
Your efforts, whether through volunteering or donating, help improve their quality of life and reduce the stray population in a humane way. Spaying and neutering initiatives are particularly critical to breaking the cycle of overpopulation, ensuring fewer dogs are born into difficult circumstances.
Volunteers also play a vital role in raising awareness about responsible pet ownership, a long-term solution to reducing the number of stray animals on the island.
Conclusion
Supporting stray dogs in Zanzibar is a meaningful way to give back while exploring this beautiful destination. Whether you choose to volunteer your time, assist local caretakers, or donate to established organizations, your contributions will make a lasting impact.
On your next visit to Zanzibar, consider helping these loving animals and becoming part of the efforts to improve their lives. Together, we can make a difference across the island.
