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Join our small grassroots volunteer-led animal welfare group on the island of Mayreau, St Vincent and the Grenadines

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
Last activity : 5 Jul 2025

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Host is looking for help immediately
Host rating
100 %
Last replied
26 Jun 2025
Reply rate
95.9 %
Usually responds within 3 days
Feedback
28
Email verified

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2025

Min stay requested: at least 1 month

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What's this?

Details

Description
We are a small volunteer-led animal welfare group on the small and beautiful island of Mayreau in the Southern Grenadines. Our mission is to care for the island's dogs, cats and goats - sometimes in rather challenging conditions, and with limited local resources. If you are passionate about hands-on animal care and ready to step into a unique and interesting environment, where your help truly matters, we would love to hear from you. We offer simple accommodation in one of two, two bedroomed volunteer houses.
We seek vets/vet nurses/dog trainers/behaviorists and animal lovers who will look after our rescue dogs and cats and be proactive in looking after the welfare of all the island animals.
Types of help and learning opportunities
Animal Care
UN sustainability goals this host is trying to achieve
...
...
What's this?
Cultural exchange and learning opportunities
First and foremost, for people with a real passion for animal welfare, this is an opportunity to make a big difference in the lives of the animals, and it is immensely rewarding.

It is also a chance to get involved with the local community on this small and still quite untouristy island (population around 280 people). You will get to know everybody, and the longer you stay and the more you learn, the more fascinating it is.
Help
3 hours per day, 5 days a week- no food

We seek volunteers who will help look after our own rescue dogs, and who will be proactive in looking after the welfare of all the island animals (mostly dogs, cats and goats). This includes walking dogs who are otherwise chained 24/7, checking on at risk animals, and engaging in community outreach.

A manager is always present to welcome and guide volunteers.
Languages spoken
English: Fluent
Accommodation
Our own house is a simple but spacious and cool wooden house, on the Windward side of the island, with beautiful views. The house has a large balcony overlooking the Tobago Cays, an upstairs gallery with double bed, and another double bed downstairs, sectioned off to one side of the open plan living room. The house is simply and basically furnished, with an outdoor bucket style shower. We built it in as eco- friendly a style as we could.

We also have the use of another house one minute's walk away, with 2 bedrooms, balcony, and village and sea views.
What else ...
Volunteers will have plentiful time for swimming, snorkelling and diving. The beaches and the water are beautiful. You can walk everywhere around the island (there are only a few vehicles on the island, which adds to its charm). A visit to the nearby Tobago Cays to swim with turtles is highly recommended.
A little more information
- Internet access
- Limited internet access
- We have pets
- We are smokers
- Can host families
Can host digital nomads
At present , we have no wifi at either volunteer house due to the connectivity infrastructure being damaged in Hurricane Bery last year. We are working on obtaining this as soon as it is available, and therefore in the meantime, volunteers are asked to provide their own ESIM . There are at present two Starlink sites on the island, which volunteers can use.
How many Workawayers can stay?
More than two
My animals / pets

Host ref number: 918486446567

Website Safety

Feedback (16)

17 May 2025

Left by Workawayer (Cedric) for host

I really loved this experience on Dogs island (Mayreau Island), I was able to meet Gill and Steven who was there at that time, very nice peoples who are trying there best to help the dogs and give them better life...
There are 2 houses one in Dogs House and Gloria house (very near each other) The volunteers take care of the dogs walk them, o feed… read more

(Excellent )

16 May 2025

Left by host for Workawayer (Cedric)

Cedric is everything he describes in his profile - positive, easy-going, happy, and energetic. He is also unfailingly good-humoured, hard-working, flexible, clean and tidy, and nothing was too much trouble for him. He was wonderful with the dogs and cats that he was looking after, who all loved him, and he was tireless in his efforts to make a… read more

(Excellent )

16 May 2025

Left by host for Workawayer (Josie & Kevin)

We were unable to be present in Mayreau during Kevin and Josie's stay, and so we arranged for a full and comprehensive handover to be conducted by an outgoing volunteer. It was only after Kevin and Josie left the island that we learned of the problems that they faced. There were indeed serious issues, including the unacceptable state of their… read more accommodation, and a handover which was clearly wholly inadequate. We are extremely sorry about this, and of course have apologised directly to them. That said, we were surprised and disappointed not to have been informed of their concerns during their stay. Throughout their short time with us, we made repeated efforts to check in with them to ensure that they were comfortable in their accommodation and that all was going well, but we received no response. Had we known, we would have acted immediately to resolve the issues. It is deeply regrettable that we were not given that opportunity.
With regard to the troubling safety issues they raised, safety for all concerned is of course our highest priority. We have strict safety protocols in place, including structured dog walks, the use of muzzles when appropriate, clear handling guidelines for the animals in our care, and behavioural advice regarding the wider dog population. Our safety procedures, both with regard to the animals and generally, are outlined in our Information pack and standard agreement with our volunteers. As safety protocols must often adapt to constantly changing conditions - eg. updated requirements for the use of a muzzle for a specific dog - all updates are customarily communicated directly to incoming volunteers during the handover process. We are extremely sorry that this did not happen in this case. Moving forward , in any future instance where we as hosts are unable to give the handover ourselves, additional precautions will be taken to verify that the handover has been conducted fully and correctly. With regard to some points mentioned in the feedback which were inaccurate : - there was a functioning two burner gas stove in their volunteer house; a shared fridge was available in the second volunteer house, one minute's walk away; the bucket shower arrangement was explained prior to their visit, hence they took out their own portable shower attachment . As a matter of course, we inform incoming volunteers that Mayreau was badly impacted by Hurricane Beryl in July 2024. Much of the island's infrastructure was destroyed, and our volunteer houses were damaged, and many of the house contents destroyed. The houses have been repaired, but we always stress in advance to our volunteers that living conditions are still simple and quite basic. Kevin and Josie also raised concerns about local people "taking advantage" of our support. We understand this viewpoint completely, but the context is that we work closely with veterinary professionals and educators and the police to promote responsible animal ownership and to advocate for legal enforcement of welfare standards. Cultural change around animal welfare takes time, and whilst we are commited to education, hands-on care is often the only thing standing between an animal and continued suffering.
In conclusion, we are very sorry and shocked that Kevin and Josie's experience was so far from ideal. We just wish that they had communicated this information directly to us during their stay so that we could have addressed and resolved these issues.

(Neutral )

24 Apr 2025

Left by Workawayer (Josie & Kevin) for host

I have thought long and hard about giving this feedback as I realise that it is a negative one. I do not think it is a forum to broadcast issues and make personal statements as per the guidelines for feedback. I have out of respect given full honest and frank feedback direct with the host which to her credit have been taken on board and in fact… read more due to the nature of events was travelling out from the UK to deal directly. This however does not take away from the basic facts that need to be known by others who may consider this as a visit. I travelled with my wife with our eyes open as we are very experienced travellers and travelled the world volunteering. We had issues prior to leaving with moving house but decided to continue as we never let anyone down last minute. On arrival the situation was clearly very difficult, we had no sleep at all due to the dogs kept in the house, the walking of the dogs as required on a lead was at times dangerous as the majority of local dogs are running free so attract attention. This included some biting incidents which were totally preventable, we were surprised that the locals attitude to the charity in general as quite happy to stand and watch while we watered there animals, this encouraged laziness, it was compounded by the next door neighbour who I found was the brother in law of the host telling us off for the way we were supposed to be feeding his dog, cats and goats while he sat on balcony watching. the same happened with other families who just took advantage. We were aware that the facilities were basic but with no fridge cooker and shower lack of sleep and general lack of communication all round the matter was becoming untenable. The volunteer who was on site to meet us and guide us was erratic and all over the place, The serious issues with her have been relayed direct but were significant. The issues of dog attacks again were real andthe attitude of some locals was problematic and concerning. We had taken on this project with a view to maybe extending it for a long period but It became clear that we were hugely out of pocket travelling a long way and not making a real difference, actually feeling used. It really needs education but the locals need to embrace this. I have as said contacted the host directly with full details, I have also made workaday admin aware of exactly the same. I would summarise this as I would advise my daughter who is a vet nurse to not consider this at all, the health and safety even on a foreign island is unacceptable and it is not safe. I personally feel let down and amazed after reading the previous reviews, that is not what we encountered at all. I applaud the host for the ideals involved in this and grateful that it was taken seriously . We decided to prioritise our own issues at home so cut our visit short.

(Neutral )

6 Jun 2024

Left by Workawayer (Karolina) for host

All the 5 star reviews speak for themselves- this is an absolutely fantastic Workaway opportunity for any animal lover out there! I originally planned to stay on the island for 2 months and ended up extending by one more, however, I easily could have never left! The island of Mayreau, albeit tiny, is absolutely gorgeous and should be on every… read more travelers bucket list. It is truly one of the few untouched places in the world, with no commercialized industries I highly recommend this Workaway to anyone looking to explore off the beaten path.

The local community of Mayreau is small but mighty. During my time, I made many life long friends. From local islanders who are so eager to give you a glimpse of the magic paradise they call home, to other volunteers who quickly become family as you navigate island life together. There are endless opportunities for exploration both above and under water. I highly recommend getting involved in the community as this will benefit not only your own personal time on the island but is very useful and advantageous in the daily care of the animals.

From the get-go, Gill was highly communicative of the realties of Mayreau and was never more than a phone call or message away, ready to assist in any circumstance. I was incredibly lucky to have met both Gill and Steve during my time in Mayreau, as they arrived on the island at the end of my two months. Their infectious positivity and enthusiasm is partly what led me to extending my time there. Their sheer dedication and tenacity in improving the lives of Mayreau's animals continues to inspire me. They truly care about the well being of their volunteers- I always felt supported and had peace of mind in any situations that arose. Their extensive knowledge of the island and the animals that inhabit it was so crucial- ask them anything!

Last but certainly not least, the most marvelous part of this experience were the animals. Despite being a life long animal lover and doggy fanatic, I did not expect the enormous impact the four legged creatures of Mayreau would have on me. These sweet sweet souls will leave a lifelong imprint on your heart!! Challenging times never bear much weight as one look at their glimmering eyes and smiles will easily remind you of your purpose on the island. One month later, I still get tears in my eyes thinking about them all and missing them ever so much!

I have endless positive things to say about my time in Mayreau. I am immensely grateful for having this unique experience and for the opportunity to help such a heartfelt cause. It is not a matter of IF I'll be back, but WHEN. The hardest part of this Workaway is leaving!!!

(Excellent )

View all 16 feedbacks

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$The image features a black kitten with piercing blue eyes, nestled between a person\'s hand and arm, surrounded by colorful bracelets.$

Feedback

These are extra optional ratings when members leave feedback. The average rating left for each option is displayed.

Accuracy of profile:
(4.8)

Cultural exchange:
(4.7)

Communication:
(4.8)

17 May 2025

Left by Workawayer (Cedric) for host

(Excellent)

16 May 2025

Left by host for Workawayer (Cedric)

(Excellent)

16 May 2025

Left by host for Workawayer (Josie & Kevin)

(Neutral)

24 Apr 2025

Left by Workawayer (Josie & Kevin) for host

(Neutral)

6 Jun 2024

Left by Workawayer (Karolina) for host

(Excellent)

6 Feb 2024

Left by host for Workawayer (Pavel)

Pavel was a simply amazing volunteer, who went above and beyond to help us, in sometimes challenging circumstances. Unfailingly kind, considerate, calm, diplomatic and capable, we simply can't recommend him enough to any prospective workaway hosts. There is no doubt that you will be very lucky to have him, and indeed we would welcome him back in a… read more

(Excellent)

17 Sep 2023

Left by Workawayer (Pavel) for host

This workaway mission is a fantastic opportunity for strong, independent, confident and committed individuals, who want to experience an authentic Caribbean lifestyle on a tiny island, where local people live simply. Many their dogs unfortunately live in sub-optimal conditions. Some don`t get water, food, not mentioning walks, bath and regular vet… read more

(Excellent)

4 Feb 2024

Left by host for Workawayer (Janay )

Wow, wow, what a great gift Janay was to our project! Her skills, knowledge and extensive experience as a vet nurse were invaluable to us, as was her absolute dedication and commitment to providing the best possible care to the animals, no matter how challenging the circumstances. Not only this, her knowledge of dog training and behavioural issues… read more

(Excellent)

24 Jan 2024

Left by Workawayer (Janay ) for host

Wow well where do I start! Mayreau is such a small but complex amazing little island, I thought I would be bored here after a month as it’s such a tiny space in the world.
I stayed 2.5months being there over Xmas and NYE.
But the locals, the animals and the tasks kept me busy.
Fitness is a must but I felt so much better and stronger for my daily… read more

(Excellent)

6 Mar 2023

Left by Workawayer (Julia) for host

I volunteered in Mayreau for 1 month and though I wasn’t there too long, I had the most amazing experience! I got to meet Gillian and Steve my first few nights who are such wonderful and kind people! Getting the chance to help take care of so many of the island dogs and seeing their reactions of joy was beyond anything I could’ve hoped for. It’s a… read more

(Excellent)

18 Nov 2022

Left by Workawayer (Julien) for host

I've stayed two months on this amazing island helping with the dogs and all other animals. Gill and Steve were 2 wonderfull host that show me everything i had to know about the island and the life on it. Since it's a small island, I was able to met and discuss with everyone on the island. If you love animal and disconnected place, you will love… read more

(Excellent)

29 Sep 2022

Left by host for Workawayer (Olivia)

Olivia and Stephen were an answer to a prayer! Wonderfully kind, caring and compassionate, they were tireless in their efforts to help the island animals, always going the extra mile. Nothing was too much trouble, and we simply can't thank them enough.
As we were in the UK whilst they were in Mayreau, it was absolutely wonderful knowing that the… read more

(Excellent)

13 Sep 2022

Left by Workawayer (Olivia) for host

I would highly highly recommend this Workaway. I am just finishing up my time here (my last day is tomorrow) and I have truly had such a wonderful experience.

From the second I messaged her, Gill has been incredibly responsive and informative and was quick to set up calls with me to explain everything here in Mayreau. Her amazing level of… read more communication has been present throughout my entire time here. Anytime we message her with a question, problem, or even just some cute photos, Gill is quick to respond! Not only that but all the (incredibly detailed) information she provided when I was debating coming to Mayreau was very accurate and extensive. She also was very accommodating and allowed my boyfriend to come with me when I asked!

In terms of the accommodation here, while Gill will likely call it “simple living”, the house is very beautiful. It’s a very open and airy house with an absolutely huge deck that you can hang out on; cuddling with the dogs on the hammock or on the couch out here. Her house also gets a really lovely breeze up from the ocean which keeps it cool all throughout the day.

The dogs here are truly the top selling point and they are most definitely worth the journey. You’ll have some dogs staying at the house with you, all of whom are very sweet and adore getting attention and cuddles! You would also be working with other dogs out in the community who belong to locals. These dogs are also very sweet and are really quite desperate for some love! Unfortunately not all of them are in great situations and you should come prepared to hear some heartbreaking stories and see some sad things. Hopefully that is not a deterrent, and is why it is so important for you to come! Even in just a short time here you can see the change and impact you have on these dogs lives :) While I was here I had the sad but also joyous honour of taking 7 dogs out for their first walk in almost 2 years!

Most days the work here consists of going for walks on the beach with dogs, taking them for swims, and feeding them/giving water. That being said, you should be prepared to respond as needed to situations that come up. When opportunities come up to take a dog to be spayed/neutered or taken to see a vet you will be responsible for chaperoning them. Equally if a dog is injured, getting it to proper medical attention is the top priority of the volunteers. Basically days in Mayreau can be a bit unpredictable at times! So you should be flexible and ready for a mix of slow days and busy ones.

The community on the island is quite small and tight knit. The people are friendly and will greet you in the street. It’s important to make an effort with the locals so they feel comfortable confiding in you if an animal is injured or if they need some help!

If you go to Mayreau you should go chat with John who owns the supermarket! John is super super amazing, very knowledgeable, and has more degrees than I can count. His store is also where you’ll end up buying most of your food! Also you can stop in for a trim with Hudson who is the very lovely barber on the island and one of the few people who treats his dog well :)

I really cannot recommend this Workaway enough, my boyfriend and I will most definitely be returning to Mayreau to volunteer in the future and we hope to become regulars with Gill!

(Excellent)

5 Feb 2022

Left by host for Workawayer (Flora)

We were so happy that Flora and Jelle came to help us with our animal welfare project. We were unable to be on the island for the two and a half months they spent there, and we are very thankful to them indeed, as they gave us the huge gift of peace of mind, in the absolute knowledge that the animals were being beautifully cared for and loved in… read more

(Excellent)

4 Feb 2022

Left by Workawayer (Flora) for host

Dear future volunteers. We (Jelle and me) really really recommend to come and stay. I stayed at Gill and Steve's amazing house for 2.5 months, Jelle had to leave for work and could only stay 6 weeks. Luckely Fran and JD where the 2 volunteers staying at the other house that Gill can use now for volunteers aswell. Between the 3 of us we were… read more

(Excellent)

1 Feb 2022

Left by host for Workawayer (Francesca & Jeffery)

Our advice to any prospective hosts who may be fortunate enough to be contacted by Francesca and Jeffery, is to snap them up immediately! We feel enormously lucky that they found us, and simply can't thank them enough for all they did to help our animal welfare project.
Kind, caring, compassionate, conscientious, reliable, energetic, organised,… read more

(Excellent)

27 Jan 2022

Left by Workawayer (Francesca & Jeffery) for host

We spent 3 months volunteering on Mayreau. This has been our 13th workaway and easily one of the best! Our experience was challenging emotionally and physically but so rewarding and made us really appreciate the little things in life. The profile and preparation Gill gave us prior to our trip was very accurate. Gill and Steve were the most amazing… read more

(Excellent)

14 Dec 2021

Left by host for Workawayer (Scott)

We were delighted that Scott found us on Workaway! He helped us out enormously in an emergency situation where we were 2 people down. Under normal circumstances, we aim to have four volunteers in Mayreau, but this is not always so easy to achieve in Covid times. So, big thanks go out to Scott for coming to help us out when we were in a jam. He did… read more

(Excellent)

11 Nov 2021

Left by Workawayer (Scott) for host

I spent three weeks on Mayreau and it was a great experience. Gill is a great communicator and kept in touch all the way and answered any questions I had. The dogs were amazing and enjoyed the love and attention that you give and showed it back. I miss whiskey all the time and our chill time on the beach just looking out to sea.

(Excellent)

27 Nov 2021

Left by host for Workawayer (Matthew & Raquel)

Matthew and Raquel spent a very busy three months in Mayreau, taking fantastic care not only of our own menagerie of rescue animals, but also of all the animals on this small island. They are a wonderful couple, hardworking, easy going, highly responsible, reliable, diplomatic, full of initiative, and great company too! Nothing was too much… read more

(Excellent)

24 Nov 2021

Left by Workawayer (Matthew & Raquel) for host

It's difficult to put our time spent on tiny Mayreau into words that do it justice. It's a very special place and we'll remember the three months we spent here forever. Mayreau is simultaneously beautiful, fascinating, hilarious, heartbreaking, challenging, rewarding and completely unique. If you are open minded and love to truly experience what… read more

(Excellent)

17 Oct 2020

Left by host for Workawayer (Emilien)

Emil embodied all the qualities that we seek in our volunteers. He was unfailingly resourceful, reliable, trustworthy, kind, compassionate and energetic. Indeed, nothing was too much trouble for him, despite the fact that due to our emergency situation in Mayreau at the time, he was single-handedly doing the work of two people.

He came to the… read more

(Excellent)

16 Oct 2020

Left by Workawayer (Emilien) for host

I spent 3 fabulous month on Mayreau. It was an amazing experience, living on that tiny local island in the Caraïbes in this beautiful wooden house. The home's animals were soooo lovely. Daily I walked the dogs on a stunning wild beach and took care of the island's animals (mostly dogs). Gill and Steeve (and vets) were always available on what's… read more

(Excellent)

8 Nov 2018

Left by Workawayer (Ash Inkar & Sam) for host

The best 5 months of our lives were spent on Mayreau. We lived in a beautiful wooden house, surrounded by paradise beaches, all within 15 minutes walk. The island is small so you really become part of the community. Above all that, you make unbreakable bonds with the dogs. You become a loyal leader for the main pack (that you take for a quiet walk… read more

(Excellent)

21 Oct 2018

Left by host for Workawayer (Ash Inkar & Sam)

Sam and Ash spent five months in Mayreau, Southern Grenadines, from April 2018 to September 2018, taking fantastic care of our own five rescue dogs and rescue cat, and indeed taking fantastic care of the whole island population of animals!

As we were not in Mayreau ourselves at the time, it was wonderful to know that the animals were in such… read more

(Excellent)

13 May 2018

Left by host for Workawayer (Gisela)

We were so thankful for the time that Gisela spent looking after our house and animals in Mayreau, Southern Grenadines, between January and May 2018. In addition to caring for our own five rescue dogs and our rescue cat, she also looked out in a wonderful way for the welfare of all the island animals. Gisela is absolutely everything that one could… read more

(Excellent)

6 May 2018

Left by Workawayer (Gisela) for host

This has been an amazingly rewarding and never to be forgotten experience!

An extraordinary opportunity to live like a local on this amazingly beautiful, almost unspoilt island in the Caribbean.

All the dogs are just adorable!! We made a lot of four-legged friends! Their faithfulness and unconditional love warms the heart and we grew together… read more

(Excellent)

13 Dec 2016

Left by Workawayer (Martin) for host

this was a fantastic experience i loved the dogs the house the island and the people there, i made lifelong friends, the grenadines are beautiful. the hosts are not present but will have regular contact with you and are very very nice caring animal loving people. i would not miss any opportunity to return to mayreau, i stayed for 6 months and… read more

(Excellent)

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Homestays, Volunteering & Working Holidays in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Homestays, Volunteering & Working Holidays in North America Community Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Animal welfare Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Other Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Last minute Homestays, Volunteering & Working Holidays in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Join our small grassroots volunteer-led animal welfare group on the island of Mayreau, St Vincent and the Grenadines

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Types of help and learning opportunities

UN sustainability goals this host is trying to achieve

Cultural exchange and learning opportunities

Help

Languages spoken

Accommodation

What else ...

A little more information

Can host digital nomads

How many Workawayers can stay?

My animals / pets

Feedback (16)

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