Our volunteer from Austria

"To be honest: I was quite nervous before my arrival at L.I.F.E. I didn’t know what was laying ahead of me. I didn’t know Lucy, I didn’t know the facilities and I didn’t know the animals. Additionally, I was going to spend Christmas and New Year’s in a different country, far away from my family and friends.

When I first met Lucy, all my concerns were blown away. Lucy and her employee Ilia showed me different places where they keep their rescued animals, and I met all their dogs, cats, horses and the funny donkey Selim. I spent my times walking and petting dogs. I tried to give them the attention they needed and they gave me their love and trust in return. I still miss them, as all of L.I.F.E.’s dogs are thankful and friendly creatures. My work was much appreciated - Lucy told me multiple times how happy she was that I helped her."



"As I came by car, I drove around the area and visited the different locations where Lucy keeps her dogs. It’s a pity that there are official regulations that prohibit keeping all of them in one big place. Many of the dogs kept in foster care live a life on a chain and get no attention. It broke my heart every time I had to leave them behind after petting and walking them.

I loved to spend time at Bernie’s home, a lovely lady who cares for Lucy’s cat colony. She hosts more than 20 cats and loves them like her own. Bernie invited me for lunch and tea, and she even took me on a Christmas lunch on Christmas day. Thank you for everything you’ve done for me, Bernie!

I loved my time at L.I.F.E., and the two and a half weeks went by so fast. I mostly walked dogs and petted cats. I sometimes bought medication and food or took one of the animals to the vet.

Thank you for everything you do, Lucy. Thank you for everything you do, Bernie. There are a couple of wonderful people down in Bulgaria who try to do their best for animals in need. They are so thankful about every helping hand, as help is much needed.

I am happy about every single person and every single animal I met and I miss these kind and friendly souls."

Daniela, Austria


LIFE welcomes energetic and self-motivated volunteers to work on site in Bulgaria. Jobs and hours vary by the season but can include:

  • Helping administer medical treatment to dogs, cats and horses

  • Giving loving attention, including walks and grooming, to rescued dogs

  • Exercising horses, (if the volunteer has the required skills)

  • Assisting with Outreach Work in local communities

  • Serving as a general support to Lucy in her daily duties

If you feel you would like to volunteer please Contact us for further details.