Volun­teering Greece – Elli

Profile

Name: Elli

Project: Cat welfare in Greece

Location: Attica

Duration: 2 weeks

Animal Welfare Greece – a review by Elli

When people ask me about my favourite animal, the answer is always: cats. I basically like all animals, but cats are simply the most beautiful creatures in the world for me. Independent, free, individual, proud, and simply beautiful. I grew up with cats, volunteered at the local cat shelter, studied animal psychology, and now work part-time as a cat sitter. With the volunteer project in Greece, this was a big dream come true. For one week I was allowed to get to know the work of the partner organisation in the Attica region.

Together with up to seven other volunteers from all over the world and currently about 30 cats, I had a very wonderful time. I shared my room with the velvet paws Peanut, Nyx and Luna. Peanut and Nyx are already 16 years old. Both kept me company in bed at night and demanded a lot of cuddles. Peanut particularly won me over. He is blind but manages very well and always came very close to my face to cuddle. Fortunately, he is already spoken for and will be adopted soon. Luna is also quite adorable: she suffers from ataxia and can only move her hind legs to a limited extent. But she is also coping well with her limitation and is still waiting for a loving home. In the room itself the cats had everything they need: places to sleep, scratching post, food, water, and litter boxes. In the whole house the cats run around freely, have access to a secured balcony and are cared in every way until they are placed in a loving home.

In this way they have social contact with other cats and get used to living with humans. Most of the cats have previously lived on the streets in adverse conditions. Through the work of this organisation, they are guaranteed medical care and a life in a safe environment. They can become healthy and develop and show their personalities: some are incredibly trusting, seeking affection and cuddles, while others need some time to warm up and approach humans. The goal is always to place the cats in a loving "forever home", often internationally.

A typical workday started in the morning with the big cleaning: all food and water bowls were collected and rinsed, the whole house was vacuumed, mopped, and disinfected. Blankets were washed, litter boxes cleaned, litter replenished, medications administered. Hygiene and cleanliness are top priorities when so many cats and people live together. When everything was cleaned and tidy, the cats eagerly awaited their meal: the bowls were distributed and filled again. Alternately, we also had “puppy patrol”, and took care of the three puppies that currently live in the shelter and are waiting for a new home. Afterwards there was time to be creative. For example, we colourfully painted cat houses on the balconies, because the kitties also like to have it fancy. We made toys or packed gift bags for the adoptions. Sometimes we just "watched" the cats to learn more about their nature and character.

We took photos and videos and wrote down our observations. All this is important and part of the work. In this way, profiles can be written about each individual animal, which help to make it easier for future owners to make their choice. Social media plays a very important role in this, but also on-site educational work in the community.

Because, unfortunately, there are still many street cats struggling to survive. It is important to draw attention to the problem, to provide information and help around the topic of animal welfare and thus to ensure care. When all duties were fulfilled, we could explore the region, take a trip to the beach, have a coffee in the nearby village or just continue cuddling with the cats - because honestly one can never get enough. In the evening, we fed the cats again and cleaned the litter boxes. Then we cooked in the communal kitchen, played Cat-Opoly (cat monoply) or watched a movie.

It was like living in a big shared flat and I felt very comfortable after a short time. In volunteer projects, you always meet great, warm people, both other participants and the staff of the project itself. We all share a passion for protecting animals and species and making the world a little bit better.

A special highlight was the Monk Seal trip to Lichadonisia, a group of islands about two hours north of Athens. There we took a small boat tour and were actually lucky enough to see a monk seal. This species was already very endangered but is now recovering in this region, among others, and the population is increasing. The water is crystal clear and wonderful for snorkelling, there are small hidden beaches and a few ancient cottages. You can have a delicious meal in the harbour. In Greece, as in other Mediterranean regions, you often order many different dishes, put them in the middle of the table and share them.

On my day off, I took the opportunity to explore Athens. The train takes you comfortably to the centre in about 40 minutes and you can explore the city. A must-do was a visit to the Acropolis - apart from the impressive ancient buildings, you have a fantastic view over the whole of Athens and the surrounding area from there. Then I just let myself drift and explored the city on foot. I enjoyed the atmosphere and yet very soon missed my cuddly velvet paws. So, quickly I returned home and continue cuddling.

It was an intense yet relaxed week: I feel like I saw and experienced a lot, both within the project and in my free time from the country itself. I got to meet great people from all over the world, all of whom are passionate about animal welfare. The best part for me was being able to be with cats 24 hours a day. There was always someone there to cuddle, you get so much back and don't have to give much. Filling the food bowl is enough ;) I would definitely like to come back and stay longer. One week went by way too fast. I wish all the kitties that they soon find a wonderful "forever home", each one deserves it!