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20 Jan 2025
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I run an animal rescue centre mainly for abandoned animals, including at the time of writing, 28 dogs, 30 cats, 7 donkeys, a mule and a horse. I am an English lady who has been living on the Cycladic island of Andros for the past 40 years. I am an artist and an author and have a extensive knowledge of Greek culture that I would like to share.
I live on the beautiful island of Andros. My house is situated in the middle of a large property, in the mountain village of Arnas, in the center of the island. It is a half hour drive from Batsi on one side, and a half hour drive from Hora on the other side. The ferry will arrive in the town of Gavrion and it is a 40 minute drive. The taxi will cost you 35 Euros. It is also possible to rent a car or motorbike if you so wish but you must be 23 years or older. You must also hold an international drivers license if your permanent address is outside of Europe (Australia, Canada, USA, etc. please check before you arrive if you wish to rent!)
The house is surrounded by woodland and beautiful mountain scenery. Ideal for walking and exploring.
The donkeys, horse and mule roam free. The dogs have a large, extensive place where they can roam free and play, the cats are separated from the dogs and also have a huge area where they can roam with no traffic.
Ideally a volunteer should be planning to stay three weeks or more but I am still interested to hear from you if you would like to come for a shorter period.
The dogs sleep in the house at night and not in kennels and volunteers should be aware that the dogs live in the house. Part of the work here is keeping the house clean and looking after the dogs.
The property is in a rather remote area, but volunteers can visit other parts of the island on their two days off, or go for walks in the afternoons or explore the island if you have transport. Also if we are going into town on your days off we can give you a lift. The work takes place in the mornings .... but flexibility is important as we may need your help in an emergency or unusual situation.
Volunteers should preferably be vegetarian or vegan, or willing to be during their stay, as we eat no meat in this house !
There are cooking facilities available but mostly we eat together and take it in turns to cook etc. Food is provided as part of the deal between the host and the Workawayer. Accommodation is good and of course provided and can vary between a double or single bedroom with a shared bathroom.Types of help and learning opportunities
GardeningDIY and building projectsAnimal CareFarmstay helpCreating/ Cooking family mealsHelp around the houseGeneral MaintenanceHelp with Computers/ InternetCultural exchange and learning opportunities
This is a chance to explore a beautiful Greek island while looking after some wonderful animals.
I can't stress enough how much the volunteer should have a genuine love of animals.
The property is in the centre of the island surrounded by mountainous scenery and sea views a short walk away, a perfect place for nature lovers and walkers. A volunteer will also learn about animal care, their behavior and the interaction which takes place between them.
The island is famous for its network of walking pathways and its greenery, but also its beautiful beaches. This is a great chance for a true Greek experience, to learn about Greek culture and the way of life.Help
I am looking for somebody who can help me with an animal rescue centre This would involve taking care of the animals (which include dogs, cats and donkeys plus one horse and one mule) and helping to maintain and clean their living quarters, and the day to day running of the centre ( including work on the computer such as fund raising etc). We are here to help animals rescued off the streets or animals that were in some way in need or in distress.
This workaway project is ideal for someone who loves animals and somebody who enjoys being surrounded by nature in a rural environment. An essential characteristic of a volunteer should be their love of animals as they will be living in proximity with the dogs and cats, although each volunteer or volunteers have their own space, bedrooms etc.
The nearest towns are around a thirty minute drive away so for volunteers who want to explore, the best options would be to hire a car or a moped which are both cheap except in high season. It is also worth noting that you will require an international license to rent a vehicle on the island. Otherwise there is a taxi service to get you back and forth.
The taxi fare on arrival and departure to and from the port of Gavrion to Arnas where I live is 35e each way.
Volunteers will also be asked to help with gardening, house maintenance and keeping the place generally clean and tidy.
Tasks can really depend on the weather: what is needed at the time.
Volunteers would have their own accommodation. shared bathroom and a shared kitchen. We often cook communally and this is a vegetarian household and of course vegans are especially welcome !
I am almost always around and working together with you.Languages spoken
Greek: Fluent
English: FluentAccommodation
The accommodation varies from an apartment with two separate bedrooms (shared bathroom), and another large bedroom with shared bathroom. They are all kept clean and are generally attractive and comfortable. The views are beautiful.
What else ...
Arni is in the middle of the island between Batsi, which is on the west coast and Hora, which is on the east coast. Both of these little towns provide opportunities to shop, enjoy a meal out or visit a beach. The owner can help the volunteer to book motorbike or car hire or order a taxi.
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Workawayers would be asked to respect the following:
1. A limited consumption of alcohol on the property.
2. Smoking only outside the accommodation.
3. Absolutely no use of drugs.A little more information
Internet access
Limited internet access
We have pets
We are smokers
Can host families
Space for parking camper vans
plenty of space
Can possibly accept pets
This host has said they are willing to accept those travelling with a pet.
How many Workawayers can stay?
More than two
Feedback (60)
The location amazing, a small town in the mountains, with a lot of hiking to do, whether to discover the beautiful sceneries the island has to offer or… read more
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The location amazing, a small town in the mountains, with a lot of hiking to do, whether to discover the beautiful sceneries the island has to offer or… read more
Her… read more
First of all, Sandy is a very strong, independent and extremely animal loving person. She takes care day and night that everything runs smoothly in and around the house and of course gives you lots of tips on what to do in your free time. Sandy has lived on the island for a long time and cares… read more
If someone is looking for… read more
Sandy is the most caring, selfless person, I feel so honoured to have been able to meet her and see the AMAZING work she has done (and is doing everyday). She has saved so many animals lives & I don’t know what Andros would be like without her!
Sandy makes it feel like a real home, I was… read more
Sandy is a wonderful host, an amazing person and very funny! I loved listening to her stories and way of describing the animals. I am grateful that she welcomed me as well as my dog Missy. Missy… read more
Sandy is one of a kind, busy with trying to help as many animals as possible, 20-30 year olds could envy her her stamina and dedication...The… read more
Sandy is such an incredible, intelligent and funny woman, and even when she was busy with work, she was always around and I had many great conversations with her. In my time… read more
Animal lovers, run there. I had an amazing time. Sandy is a lovely lady who is always there to help you, chat or answer questions but never intrusive. I discovered a courageous woman, who has only one priority:… read more
to everyone who is thinking about going to Sandy's I can only tell you do it! Sandy is the sweetest warm person who make you feel comfortable from the very beginning. She is good at listening to your needs and will help you in any way she can.
when I arrived it was… read more
I stayed with Sandy for one month over almost exactly a year ago now. It was my first workaway experience and I will always remember it with fond memories and will always be so very glad I did it.
I left just as the COVID restrictions were easing on the island so unfortunately didn't get to… read more
We learnt so much being there.
The animals are so friendly and we got very attached to them, every one of them has their own personality and it was so funny to work and play with them.
Sandy is a great host. She always cared about us and gave us a very… read more
As a worker she was excellent, very conscientious and in general a courageous and clever person....I would thoroughly recommend her to any prospective host !
the dogs , cats and donkeys are all roaming free, which makes this place feel so special. Sandy is just a lovely person to have very interesting talks with! She treats every animal with a lot of respect, almost like friends.
Plus the Island Andros is… read more
The landscape of Andros is wonderful,… read more
It is a little overwhelming when you first arrive as you are greeted by a pack of dogs but you soon fit in and learn to love everything about it! If you're an animal lover and you enjoy hiking and nature you will love it here.
A typical day consists of picking up poos,… read more
We were lucky enough to host them in October together with their sweet dog Bahia for several weeks. They are hardworking, fun and enthusiastic teamplayers that are always great company!
Fabio is an allrounder. He helped us hugely with fixing stuff around the house and assisting with the animals.
Anais was… read more
Noame played a huge part in the rescuing of 2… read more
I've spent three wonderful weeks in this little corner of paradise last July, and I had an amazing time. Sandy is a lovely host, super kind and accomodating with workawayer needs. Her place in Arni is just wonderful. I miss all the dogs (especially my babies Jasper and Spot, they'll be all grown up… read more
I arrived at the same time as another volunteer at Sandy's home, it was a great experience and meetings! You should expect to welcome a lot of love in this sanctuary, this house.
It was hard to leave this big family of dogs who live with you every day.… read more
Sandy is so welcoming and works so hard to give the animals a wonderful and loving home, the work she has done, and continues to do is so admirable.
Andros is a stunning island and the views are incredible, I went on many walks around the local… read more
Andros began with snow capped mountains and a wander round a little coastal village called Batsi. When safe, a thirty minute drive up into the remote area.
Our introduction consisted of lots of excited waggling tails with plenty of barking and howling from the furry gang.
We were lucky enough to meet three other workawayers… read more
The workaway is excellent. The dogs are wonderfull and well behaved. As well as the other animals. There are various jobs around the property so you won't be bored.
Arni is a beautiful place and it's great if you are a keen walker.
Peaceful and… read more
They truly loved the animals and in particular looked after one rescued kitten in the… read more
What can we say about our experience at Sandy's house... We had such an amazing time there with one of the most generous, warmhearted humain beiing that has ever lived. The animals are amazing, every single dog, cat, donkey, mule or horse has its own personnality and spending time with them, getting to… read more
They were always polite and helpful and never caused any problem of any sort. I would love to see them again if they return to Europe.
As a host I would highly recommend them to other hosts.
It was a very cool experience living in an old cave- like dwelling built into the hillside. The dogs run everywhere, as do the cats and mule, horse and donkey. They are lots of fun to be around.(especially the little kitten that… read more
We got to stay in one of the beautiful rooms and… read more