Mayday Algarve

Nestled within a national park in the picturesque Algarve region of Portugal, Mayday Algarve is a private sanctuary offering a haven for abandoned dogs. This dedicated charity provides a secure and loving environment for up to 100 dogs at any given time, ensuring they receive the care and attention they deserve. Beyond providing immediate sanctuary, Mayday Algarve is committed to finding permanent, happy homes for these animals, extending its rehoming efforts across Portugal and into other European countries like the UK, Germany, and Holland. The organization thrives entirely on the generosity of donations, which fuel its mission to give second chances to deserving canine companions.

Mayday Algarve is dedicated to rescuing and rehoming abandoned animals, providing a safe sanctuary environment while actively seeking loving homes for them both in Portugal and internationally. The charity operates solely on donations to ensure the well-being of every dog in its care.

Mayday Algarve's journey began in 2010 when founders Karen Breen and her husband opened their home and private woodland to abandoned animals. Recognizing the urgent need to protect these vulnerable creatures, they established a refuge, taking in dogs from streets, fields, and even local municipal kennels. What started as a deeply personal mission evolved over the years into a more formalized effort. By 2016, Karen made the decision to establish an official charity, which legally came into existence in March 2018. From its humble beginnings, Mayday Algarve has grown to become a lifeline for hundreds of dogs, sustained by the unwavering support of donations and dedicated volunteers who believe in giving every animal a chance at a better life.

Mayday Algarve is based in Vila do Bispo, situated within a national park in the scenic Algarve region of Portugal. While their physical sanctuary is rooted in this specific location, their rehoming efforts extend far beyond local boundaries. They actively seek and facilitate adoptions within Portugal, ensuring that dogs find loving homes across the country. Additionally, Mayday Algarve has established international partnerships and processes to rehome dogs in the UK, Germany, and Holland, significantly broadening the horizons for their rescued animals to find suitable families abroad. This expansive reach allows them to maximize the number of successful adoptions each year.

Mayday Algarve specializes in the rescue, care, and rehoming of dogs. Their sanctuary is designed to accommodate and nurture up to 100 dogs at any given time, providing them with spacious living areas where they can run and play freely with other canine companions. Each dog benefits from warm, comfortable housing under shelters, ensuring protection from inclement weather and providing essential shade from the strong sun. The organization is dedicated to the holistic well-being of these dogs, ensuring they have happy and healthy lives while residing at the sanctuary. Their primary aim is to transition these happy dogs into permanent, loving families where they can thrive as cherished members of a home, as demonstrated by the over 100 dogs successfully rehomed last year.