The Santorini Animal Welfare Association – SAWA
is a non-governmental, non-profit organization, founded in 1992 by active and devoted animal lovers of the island of Santorini, Greece.
SAWAs purpose is to protect the island’s animals - ranging from stray dogs and cats to abandoned donkeys and mules, care for their wellbeing and being an advocate of their rights.
In close cooperation with the Municipality of Thira and the local vet, SAWA insures that all the stray animals are neutered and spayed, vaccinated, treated in case of injury, disease or poisoning and if possible re-homed in Greece or abroad.
Moreover, SAWA oversees the implementation of the “Code of Practice” for all donkeys and mules engaged in the Bay of Fira and is constantly making efforts towards the mitigation of their health and working conditions.
During the last 10 years we’ve been promoting
well-being and respect for these wonderful animals.
We Care
At SAWA Santorini we care for the animals on the island
and occasionally also help animals from nearby islands.
We practice and believe in a non-kill shelter approach.
We believe that all animals deserve a new chance in life, and are working hard to insure that all animals are adopted and get a second change and the possibility for a new life.
Our goal is to provide a happy home for these animals and, where possible, give them a second chance for a life in a loving family. This shelter is one of the few places in the world that allows animals to coexist in groups instead of individual cages and that uniquely creates a safe haven for animals until they can be adopted.
Our Beloved Animals
Our shelter is a haven for animals of all shapes and sizes, each with a unique story and personality.
From playful pups to wise old souls who've found refuge with us.
Our animals are the heart and soul of SAWA.
Every tail wag and affectionate nuzzle reminds us of the importance of our work.
Current SAWALAND residents:
30 equines
4 goats
1 pig
many chickens & ducks
5 bunnies
many miniature dwarf hamsters
2 parrots
Jerboa (desert rodent)
1 cockatoo
Join Us in Making a Difference:
With your support, we can continue to provide shelter, care, and hope to these beautiful creatures.
Whether through adoption, volunteering, making a donation or taking a dog on walk to the beach, you can be a part of our mission to create a brighter future for Santorini's animals.
Thank you for visiting our website and for considering becoming a part of the SAWA family.
Together, we can make a world of difference for the animals we hold so dear.
Let's build a brighter future for Santorini's animals, one paw at a time.