Adopting a pet is a rewarding experience that changes the life of an animal in need. If you’re living in Lisbon, Porto, or the Algarve, there are a number of places where you can bring home a furry friend. We will provide some of the most prominent rescue shelters and associations in these three regions. Hopefully, this will make it easier for you to find your next best friend while also giving an animal a loving home.
Why Adopt?
Before diving into the specific locations, it’s worth understanding why adoption is such a vital choice. Thousands of animals in Portugal are abandoned each year, and they often end up in overcrowded shelters. By adopting, you help reduce the burden on rescue organizations and discourage unethical breeding practices. Moreover, many shelters ensure that animals are vaccinated, spayed/neutered, and socialized, which gives them a better start in their new homes.
Adoption Centers in Lisbon
1. União Zoófila
One of the oldest and most well-known animal welfare organizations in Lisbon, União Zoófila has been operating since 1951. Located in Sete Rios (R. Padre Carlos dos Santos), this shelter is home to hundreds of dogs and cats waiting for loving homes. The organization is committed to rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming animals, as well as educating the public about responsible pet ownership.
Prospective adopters must fill out a form and participate in an interview at União Zoófila. Note that there may be several candidates for the same animal. União Zoófila is open to the public every day from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm.
2. Casa dos Animais de Lisboa (CAL)
Casa dos Animais de Lisboa (Estrada da Pimenteira), managed by the Lisbon City Council, is a municipal shelter dedicated to rescuing abandoned animals within the city limits. This shelter emphasizes responsible adoption and ensures that all animals are vaccinated and sterilized before being adopted.
Visits to the House of Animals of Lisbon require an appointment in advance by calling 218 172 300. Visiting hours are from 9:30 to 12.00 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Visitors can browse the animals online or in person and must complete a questionnaire and an adoption agreement.
3. SOS Animal
SOS Animal is a Portuguese NGO and non-profit animal and environmental protection association committed to rescuing animals and advocating for their welfare. SOS Animal depends on a network of volunteers but also runs a Veterinary Clinic and Adoption Center (Estr. Paço do Lumiar R4 loja A). If you are interested, please contact the organization. You will need to fill out an application and go for an interview. SOS Animal mostly has cats and dogs, but sometimes rabbits and birds may also be available.
4. O Cantinho da Milu
Located slightly outside Lisbon, in Setúbal, O Cantinho da Milu (R. José Peixoto 2965) is one of the largest dog shelters in Portugal. This association takes amazing care of its animals. This privately-run shelter houses over 700 dogs, many of which have been rescued from dire situations. You can tell that everyone who works here cares deeply for all of the animals. Potential adopters need to schedule a visit and discuss their preferences with the staff.
Adoption Centers in Porto
1. Animais de Rua
Animais de Rua is a national organization with a significant presence in Porto (R. João das Regras 284 Sala 105). They focus on helping stray and feral animals, often through Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) programs. Animals de Rua is a training provider certified by DGERT, and they received public utility status in Portugal in 2023, as a result of 15 years of work with animals. If you would like to help an animal in need, this is a great place to start.
2. Cantinho do Tareco
Cantinho do Tareco is a cat rescue shelter that is always looking for support, volunteers, and people looking to adopt one of their friendly felines. All the work here is done by volunteers and, thanks to donations, they are able to help hundreds of cats per year. The cats here are waiting for their forever family to reach out and connect. Maybe that family will be you! You can contact the organization here.
3. Associação Midas
Associação Midas (Rua da Pinguela s/n, 4460-792) is another prominent rescue group operating in the Matosinhos district of the greater Porto region. They are deeply committed to improving the lives of abandoned animals and rely heavily on donations and volunteer support. You can adopt a dog or cat from their shelter and also gain access to a veterinary clinic at special prices run by partners of the MIDAS organization. MIDAS also gives you the option to sponsor an animal or become a MIDAS member and participate in MIDAS events such as cultural events and dinners.
Adoption Centers in the Algarve
1. Animal Rescue Algarve (ARA)
Animal Rescue Algarve is a modern, well-equipped shelter in Loulé (Cabanita, Vale da Rosa) that provides excellent care for rescued animals. Their facilities include 14 park areas with pools and sandpits. All dogs are walked daily and cats are part of an ongoing socialization process. Those looking to adopt a pet go through a thorough process that has the animal’s best interests in mind. Don’t hesitate to contact the shelter as soon as you are ready to adopt.
2. The Goldra Dog Sanctuary
Located a 20-minute drive north of Faro, the Goldra Dog Sanctuary (Goldra de Baixo, 8005-487) has many beautiful dogs looking for homes. It is also a great place to volunteer and walk dogs on Saturdays and Mondays. If you adopt a dog from this shelter, you are also joining a wonderful community of dog lovers. Contact the sanctuary to make a visit and perhaps meet the next member of your family.
3. Cadela Carlota Animal Shelter
Located halfway between Lagos and Portimão, Cadela Carlota Animal Shelter specializes in caring for unwanted and deserted dogs. The dogs here are clearly well cared for, and each dog is given ample space, toys, and proper shade in addition to being walked regularly. Find your new best friend here and give a dog a new home.
4. Canil de São Francisco de Assis-Associação dos Amigos dos Animais Abandonados (AAAA)
Located 30 minutes east of Albufeira and 25 minutes northwest of Faro by car, the Canil de São Francisco de Assis is a large rescue shelter with over 300 dogs looking for new homes. This organization keeps its facilities pristine, especially given how many dogs they care for. Come here if you are genuinely looking for a dog to take home. You can see some of the current residents at the shelter and contact the organization here.
General Tips for Adopting in Portugal
- Do Your Research. Each shelter has its own rules and processes, so familiarize yourself with their requirements before visiting.
- Be Patient. Adopting a pet is a big decision. Shelters may take time to ensure that you’re the right fit.
- Prepare Your Home. Make sure your living space is ready for a new pet. Before bringing your new family member home, get your home ready with food, bedding, and toys.
- Consider Volunteering or Donating. If you’re not ready to adopt, many shelters welcome volunteers and donations to support their work.
Conclusion
Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve have a wide number of places to adopt a pet and support animals in need. By choosing to adopt, you are giving an animal a second chance and taking one more animal off the street. The rescue shelters and associations in these three regions are ready to help you find your perfect match. Take the leap, visit a shelter, and change a life—including your own.
