The Best Vacation Spots for Animal Rescue Lovers
Even if you’re a passionate pet person, this may sound surprising at first: going on vacation—and spending part of it helping at an animal shelter. Hosing out kennels or scooping litter might not scream “getaway,” but picture yourself socializing playful kittens or walking a joyful dog against the backdrop of an exotic locale you’ve never visited before. That’s why volunteer tourism with animals has blossomed into a meaningful, heartwarming travel trend.
Of course, most shelters aren’t set up for drop-in volunteers—but several welcome travelers who want to weave compassion into their itinerary. Here are five standout destinations where kindness and adventure go hand in hand:
Best Friends Animal Sanctuary — Kanab, Utah
Why visit this area: Southern Utah is one of America’s most breathtaking regions—Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon, and even the Grand Canyon’s North Rim are all within easy driving distance.
Why volunteer here: This nationally renowned sanctuary isn’t just a shelter—it’s a movement. Featured in the National Geographic series DogTown, it partners with shelters across the country and welcomes thousands of visitors each year. You can tour the grounds—or stay overnight in your RV or rent one of their cozy cabins.
Home to around 1,600 dogs, cats, birds, and even sheep, the sanctuary offers hands-on volunteer opportunities that suit every interest: walking an energetic pup, cleaning a rabbit enclosure, or simply sitting quietly with a shy feline companion.
Aspen Animal Shelter — Aspen, Colorado
Why visit this area: World-class skiing, alpine hiking trails, and dramatic mountain vistas make Aspen unforgettable—especially in summer, when wildflowers blanket the slopes.
Why volunteer here: Their beloved “Rent-a-Pet” program lets guests borrow a shelter dog for hikes, strolls, or even gondola rides down Aspen Mountain. Launched in the 1990s by Executive Director Seth Sachson, the initiative has drawn high-profile supporters—including former President Bill Clinton and musician Lyle Lovett.
“Some guests hike up the mountain and ride the gondola back down with their four-legged friend,” Sachson says. “It’s transformative—for the dog’s confidence and for the guest’s experience.” And yes—sometimes love blooms on the trail. One retired sled dog found his forever home aboard a sailboat in Florida, proof that life-changing connections happen anywhere.
St. John Animal Care Center — Saint John, U.S. Virgin Islands
Why visit this area: Think white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and gentle trade winds—the Caribbean dream made real.
Why volunteer here: As the only no-kill shelter on St. John, this intimate center cares for about 15 dogs at a time—and warmly invites visitors to help. Whether it’s cuddling kittens or joining daily neighborhood walks, your presence makes a difference.
Morning strolls last 10–15 minutes, but Sunday hikes are the highlight: a scenic 90-minute trek through lush trails where you’ll spot deer, donkeys, native birds, and panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea. “We bring water and poop bags—and always watch the heat,” says Shelter Manager Ryan Moore. “In winter, it’s a perfect 80°F. In summer, we shorten the route to keep our pups safe and happy.”
Kauai Humane Society — Lihue, Hawaii
Why visit this area: From emerald valleys to black-sand shores, Kauai is nature’s masterpiece—and a paradise for pet lovers.
Why volunteer here: Their free “Dog Rental Program” lets you take a shelter dog on adventures—from beach days to rainforest hikes. A credit card hold ($200) ensures safe return, but if your heart skips a beat and you fall in love? The team supports adoption logistics, whether you live across the island—or across the country. Many Kauai rescues now thrive in homes from Maine to Oregon.
Inn By The Sea — Cape Elizabeth, Maine
Why visit this area: Coastal New England charm abounds—think lobster rolls, rocky shorelines, and Portland Head Light, one of the most photographed lighthouses in the world.
Why volunteer here: While technically a luxury inn—not a shelter—this pet-friendly destination pioneered a unique rescue partnership. Since 2015, it’s collaborated with the Animal Refuge League of Greater Portland to foster adoptable dogs on-site.
Guests walk, play with, and care for the dogs during their stay—and many choose to adopt. In its first full year, the program placed 46 dogs into loving homes. “Sometimes locals stop by and fall in love,” says spokesperson Rauni Kew. “But more often, it’s travelers who leave with a new family member.” If multiple guests express interest, adoption goes to the first to complete paperwork at the refuge—a simple, joyful process rooted in shared compassion.
