Profile information
Host rating
70 %
Last replied
23 Apr 2024
Reply rate
96.2 %
Usually responds within 1 day
Feedback
70
Facebook verified
Email verified
Badges (3)
Details
Description
I have been in Bulgaria for around 7 years now and was shocked and horrified at the level of animal abuse and neglect I witnessed. I decided to buy a property where I could have a safe place to rescue dogs, with a view to finding them forever homes and arranging to get them to their destinations.
Some of the transformations have been unbelievable, seeing absolutely terrified dogs turning into the most amazing and loveable characters. It is very rewarding work but can also be heartbreaking.
Types of help and learning opportunities
Charity Work
DIY and building projects
Animal Care
General Maintenance
Help with Computers/ Internet
Cultural exchange and learning opportunities
Bulgaria is a beautiful country with lots of places to visit. We are teaching the younger generation about caring and respecting animals and trying to change the mindset of local people and their attitudes towards animals which don't rate very highly in this country.
Help
I am running a sanctuary and need help looking after rescued dogs, including feeding, cleaning and walking dogs. Building and general maintenance would be a bonus but is not essential. A vehicle can be made available to someone with a valid driver's licence (which has to be kept on you while driving).
On a normal day we work from 7.15am to about 9.30am cleaning, feeding and walking some of the dogs. Then it's free time until 2.45pm. From 2.45pm until about 4pm more dogs need to be walked, fed and areas cleaned.
Occasionally I may need help during the day if vet visits are required or puppies need feeding.
Languages spoken
English: Fluent
Bulgarian: Beginner
Accommodation
Fully furnished one bedroom house with living room, bathroom and kitchen.
Two bedroomed house with kitchen, bathroom and hallway.
Unlimited Internet available.
What else ...
The village is a half hour drive from Vratsa, which is surrounded by beautiful mountains. In the summer there are sunflowers everywhere. There's plenty to do in Vratsa, such as visit Bulgaria's famous ice cave, Ledenika. There are also local markets to visit weekly. The sanctuary is a 5 minute drive from my home in the next village along.
A little more information
Internet access
Limited internet access
We have pets
We are smokers
Can host families
How many Workawayers can stay?
More than two
Hours expected
Maximum 4-5 hours a day, 5 days a week
Host ref number: 936897261712
Feedback (46)
29 Nov 2023
Left by Workawayer (Emma & Anthony ) for host
Both myself and my husband, Anthony, spent 4 great weeks volunteering with Helen. I volunteered with the dogs, and Anthony for some much needed maintenance. We both enjoyed extra time with the dogs, for playing, exercise, or just some one-on-one time. We really enjoyed the work, which is tiring at times, especially helping with extra vet visits… read more
31 Oct 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Charlotte)
It was an absolute pleasure and a breath of fresh air having Charlotte stay with us. She was hard working, absolutely brilliant with the dogs, got on fabulously with fellow volunteers and an extremely quick learner. Willing to do everything that was asked of her.
We really miss her and would welcome her back any time.
We really miss her and would welcome her back any time.
(Excellent
)
27 Oct 2023
Left by Workawayer (Charlotte) for host
I had the best time at Helen's volunteering at the shelter. I had the pleasure of staying both with Helen and at the shelter and both were great experiences.
all of the dogs are so lovely and made me smile and laugh every day, and there was always somebody to walk, play with or cuddle! I felt that the work was very rewarding and you could really… read more
all of the dogs are so lovely and made me smile and laugh every day, and there was always somebody to walk, play with or cuddle! I felt that the work was very rewarding and you could really… read more
9 Oct 2023
Left by Workawayer (Abbie) for host
I stayed at Helen's sanctuary for just under a month, overall I had the best time of my life. It can be a lot of hard work some days so don't think coming here will be like a holiday, things can change everyday. However if you know what you are getting into and are willing to put the work in then I guarantee you will have a great experience.
The… read more
The… read more
Photos
Feedback
These are extra optional ratings when members leave feedback. The average rating left for each option is displayed.
Accuracy of profile:
(4.7)
Cultural exchange:
(4.0)
Communication:
(4.4)
29 Nov 2023
Left by Workawayer (Emma & Anthony ) for host
Both myself and my husband, Anthony, spent 4 great weeks volunteering with Helen. I volunteered with the dogs, and Anthony for some much needed maintenance. We both enjoyed extra time with the dogs, for playing, exercise, or just some one-on-one time. We really enjoyed the work, which is tiring at times, especially helping with extra vet visits… read more
31 Oct 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Charlotte)
It was an absolute pleasure and a breath of fresh air having Charlotte stay with us. She was hard working, absolutely brilliant with the dogs, got on fabulously with fellow volunteers and an extremely quick learner. Willing to do everything that was asked of her.
We really miss her and would welcome her back any time.
We really miss her and would welcome her back any time.
(Excellent
)
27 Oct 2023
Left by Workawayer (Charlotte) for host
I had the best time at Helen's volunteering at the shelter. I had the pleasure of staying both with Helen and at the shelter and both were great experiences.
all of the dogs are so lovely and made me smile and laugh every day, and there was always somebody to walk, play with or cuddle! I felt that the work was very rewarding and you could really… read more
all of the dogs are so lovely and made me smile and laugh every day, and there was always somebody to walk, play with or cuddle! I felt that the work was very rewarding and you could really… read more
9 Oct 2023
Left by Workawayer (Abbie) for host
I stayed at Helen's sanctuary for just under a month, overall I had the best time of my life. It can be a lot of hard work some days so don't think coming here will be like a holiday, things can change everyday. However if you know what you are getting into and are willing to put the work in then I guarantee you will have a great experience.
The… read more
The… read more
26 Sep 2023
Left by Workawayer (James) for host
I had an incredible time at Helen's sanctuary. I only stayed for 2 weeks and was really sad when it was time for me to leave. Helen's hard work and dedication to these dogs is truly inspiring. It's horrible to see how some people treat animals in Bulgaria but a really impactful experience to be able to make a difference. Helen has some amazing… read more
19 Sep 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (James)
What an absolute pleasure to have Jack spend a couple of weeks with us helping out with the dogs and the much needed repairs.
Jack is such a lovely guy and worked so hard and made such an enormous contribution to the team. He worked off his own initiative and just got on with things without needing to be asked. He is an excellent communicator and… read more
Jack is such a lovely guy and worked so hard and made such an enormous contribution to the team. He worked off his own initiative and just got on with things without needing to be asked. He is an excellent communicator and… read more
(Excellent
)
19 Sep 2023
Left by Workawayer (Brooke) for host
staying at the sanctuary was one of the best things I have ever done! help was difficult, but Helen was so kind and accommodating! I struggled through the first week as it was unknown territory for me, but shortly after I got into the swing of things I truly began to have the time of my life! every single dog at the sanctuary is absolutely… read more
17 Sep 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Brooke)
Brooke was with us for 2 months and was an absolute superstar. She went above and beyond and worked so hard and had so much love for the dogs and cats. We were so very lucky to have had her here and will miss her terribly.
We are hoping Brooke will be back again in the future. I am so very grateful for all her hard work and commitment. Brooke… read more
We are hoping Brooke will be back again in the future. I am so very grateful for all her hard work and commitment. Brooke… read more
(Excellent
)
17 Sep 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Teresa)
It was an absolute pleasure having Teresa with us helping out with the dogs and she was very willing and able to pick up the routine quickly. She was very good with the dogs and all the other volunteers really liked her. It was lovely having her help me in my house for some of the time. I wish her the best of luck with her future. Teresa would be… read more
(Excellent
)
8 Sep 2023
Left by Workawayer (Teresa) for host
I had a lovely time at Helen’s sanctuary. There are around 50 dogs (that are absolutely adorable) thus it is necessary to feel comfortable near them. Some of them have a difficult past and therefore they need to feel that the volunteers care for them and enjoy spending time with them. Meanwhile I was there there were other 6 volunteers (not all at… read more
7 Sep 2023
Left by Workawayer (Sara) for host
It was a real pleasure to be a part of Helen's shelter. The dedication behind it can only be because of the love for dogs, each dog is given the affection and attention possible even if it remain a sanctuary and are looking for a home, they are looked after well and treated as it should be: with love and respect, as they are living beings and as… read more
3 Sep 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Sara)
It was a real pleasure having Sara join us at the sanctuary and she was very helpful and excellent with the dogs. She took extra special care of our puppies and was very friendly and willing to do any tasks asked of her.
She has a lovely personality and is very caring and kind and always has a happy smile.
She will be missed enormously by all… read more
She has a lovely personality and is very caring and kind and always has a happy smile.
She will be missed enormously by all… read more
(Excellent
)
4 Aug 2023
Left by Workawayer (ejesp25) for host
I spent two lovely weeks at Helen's house. Helen is an easy to talk person and a great and fair host. Being surrounded by dogs was a great experience for me, but be aware that this are rescued dogs, most of them had been through a lot, so you must proceed carefully, fully aware of the instructions and with a lot of respect for these fluffy… read more
13 Jul 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Natalya)
It was an absolute pleasure to host Tally and she is so hard working and was absolutely brilliant with the dogs.
Absolute no task was a problem for her and she did everything in really good spirit.
She’s a very good communicator and I really enjoyed having her in my home with me.
She will be sadly missed.
Absolute no task was a problem for her and she did everything in really good spirit.
She’s a very good communicator and I really enjoyed having her in my home with me.
She will be sadly missed.
(Excellent
)
19 Apr 2023
Left by Workawayer (Pien & Jelle) for host
Words can't describe how much we loved volunteering here for 3 weeks.
We've had so much fun volunteering at the sanctuary. We were picked up in Vratsa after clear communication everything was fine when we arrived. We started in the afternoon and and explanation was clear and quick.
Over the weeks we fell in love with the people the dogs the… read more
We've had so much fun volunteering at the sanctuary. We were picked up in Vratsa after clear communication everything was fine when we arrived. We started in the afternoon and and explanation was clear and quick.
Over the weeks we fell in love with the people the dogs the… read more
17 Apr 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Pien & Jelle)
It was an absolute pleasure to host these beautiful people. They were so kind and caring and willing to tackle any task that was asked of them and always with a big smile.
We are all missing them, especially the dogs who received so much love and attention
We are all missing them, especially the dogs who received so much love and attention
(Excellent
)
30 Oct 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Lina Freda)
Freda was a pleasure to host and was very quick to learn and very willing to carry out any task asked of her. Very pleasant to talk to and a very good listener.
She would be welcome back any time.
She would be welcome back any time.
(Excellent
)
30 Oct 2022
Left by Workawayer (Lina Freda) for host
I stayed at the sanctuary just for 6 days, but it was absolutely amazing. In the middle of nowhere, a really peaceful place. The work with the dogs was so nice. In the beginning, I didn't know what to expect and I had a lot of respect of the dogs, because you never know what they've been through. Buuuuut, all dogs were really well-behaved, kind… read more
7 Jul 2022
Left by Workawayer (Leonardo) for host
Staying at the shelter for a month was a really incredible and super experience. The volunteers take care of the dogs with true love and care. And the dogs know it and appreciate it, they love the humans back. There is a lot of work to do, but the good news is, that this work is really fun, and doesn’t really feel like work. You just have the… read more
7 Jul 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Leonardo)
Leo volunteered for over a month at the sanctuary while I was away most of this time recovering from surgery.
He was a huge asset to the team and was very willing to do everything that was asked of him with a very pleasant manner. He learnt quickly and was very kind and caring with the dogs. He will be greatly missed and wish him well in his… read more
He was a huge asset to the team and was very willing to do everything that was asked of him with a very pleasant manner. He learnt quickly and was very kind and caring with the dogs. He will be greatly missed and wish him well in his… read more
(Excellent
)
6 May 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Gisi123)
Lukas literally saved my life! I was really short of help during the winter and he contacted me asking if he could come for 10 days. He was brilliant and once he realised how much help was needed he agreed to stay another 10 days.
He was practically running the sanctuary while I was attending hospital appointments and within a day of arrival had… read more
He was practically running the sanctuary while I was attending hospital appointments and within a day of arrival had… read more
(Excellent
)
6 May 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Ellie)
It was an absolute pleasure to host Ellie and nothing was too much trouble.
She was brilliant at picking up the tasks instantly and her love and affection for the dogs was amazing. She was only here for a short time but achieved so much and never stopped working. She used her initiative and just got on with things without having to be asked. It… read more
She was brilliant at picking up the tasks instantly and her love and affection for the dogs was amazing. She was only here for a short time but achieved so much and never stopped working. She used her initiative and just got on with things without having to be asked. It… read more
(Excellent
)
4 May 2022
Left by Workawayer (Ellie) for host
I stayed just a very short period with Helen (due to my own plans), but I had a wonderful experience and the opportunity to really get stuck into working with the dogs. There is such a range of different dogs there in the rescue shelter - small, big, noisy and quiet - so many different, fun characters to spend time with if you are a dog lover like… read more
27 Nov 2020
Left by Workawayer (Nicola) for host
24 Oct 2020
Left by Workawayer (Alisha) for host
I came to Helen’s as a very last minute decision whilst travelling around Europe. I contacted her and she replied so quickly and was very keen for me to come, despite having to squeeze me in around other volunteers. I was perhaps planning to stay a couple of weeks, but ended up staying for around 4 months! It was such an amazing learning… read more
14 Oct 2020
Left by host for Workawayer (Tessa & Viola)
I felt that after one day not enough time was given to give the experience a chance and they loved their previous experience and couldn’t wait to get back there, letting me down badly
(Negative
)
28 Sep 2020
Left by Workawayer (Tessa & Viola) for host
We planned to stay with Helen for a month but for various reasons we left after 2 days.
First we want to say we didn't left because of the conditions. But it still seems important to us that you know the conditions before you get there.
The house where the workawayers live is very simple but there is a kitchen, hot water and 2 rooms. You share… read more
First we want to say we didn't left because of the conditions. But it still seems important to us that you know the conditions before you get there.
The house where the workawayers live is very simple but there is a kitchen, hot water and 2 rooms. You share… read more
14 Oct 2020
Left by host for Workawayer (MarcoAndAlina)
It was an absolute pleasure to host these lovely people and they were so quick to learn, were wonderful with the dogs and were so willing and helpful. A massive thanks for your help and kindness.
(Excellent
)
24 Sep 2020
Left by Workawayer (Matylda) for host
My stay at Helens was a wonderful and very fruitful experience. I learned a lot during this time! Thanks to Helen, the dogs and other Volunteers I had an unforgettable time. The work you put in to get the dog’s trust pays off with so much love and many cuddles. My heart felt completed during this stay.
• To you as potential next Workawayer•
As… read more
• To you as potential next Workawayer•
As… read more
20 Feb 2020
Left by Workawayer (Anna) for host
Thank you so much for having me Helen! Originally I planned to stay for a month and ended up staying for nearly two and half months! If you are a dog lover that doesn't mind a little dirty work, this will be an incredibly rewarding experience for you. There are so many ways to help these dogs get from the street (or worse) to their loving, forever… read more
13 Jan 2020
Left by Workawayer (Miriam_7112) for host
Thank you Helen. I wasn't there for very long but I enjoyed getting to know all the dogs and I learnt a lot. If I could have taken anyone home with me (just to name a few): all of the Famous Five, Cooper, Bella, Louie, Daisy, Fudge, Misty, Peggy, Paul and Bobby, Arthur and St John, Breeze, Rusty, Morpheus and Co… etc! :) Accommodation and food… read more
13 Jan 2020
Left by Workawayer (IFang) for host
I spent one week in Helen's House. It was my first workaway and really awesome. Thanks Helen so much for taking really good care of those dogs and volunteers. Dogs are really adorable and gave me lots of love, I'd love to go there again !
7 Jan 2020
Left by Workawayer (Jayson) for host
Honestly a great experience made better by a lovely group of people I volunteered with. Few people give as much as Helen who works tirelessly to help these animals live a good life and you can tell she has genuine love for all the dogs and they have the same for her. I only was here for a couple of weeks but all of my four and two legged… read more
21 Dec 2019
Left by Workawayer (Shali) for host
I stayed 2 weeks in Helen's House at her house and I had a really lovely experience. I was able to take care of so many dogs at her place and at the sanctuary. You see so much animal abuse going on in the region so her sanctuary was a haven for all the animals. There are so many beautiful and emotional success stories, adoptions, and… read more
8 Nov 2019
Left by Workawayer (Axel & Micaela) for host
We had our most amazing experience doing workaway at Helen's. She's a strong woman who does the best for the dogs that she rescues. The way that each of us connected with the dogs was a completely beautiful experience. You get to know every dog and their moods, what they like and what they don't. It is very interesting how we won the confidence of… read more
27 Oct 2019
Left by Workawayer (Heloise) for host
16 Aug 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Sally)
It was an absolute pleasure having sally with us for 9 whole weeks. Absolutely no job was any trouble to her and everything was done with pleasure and a smile.
Sally is very fit and healthy and very hard working and very quick to take the initiative and get on with things. She was wonderful with all my dogs and it was very sad to see her go.
She… read more
Sally is very fit and healthy and very hard working and very quick to take the initiative and get on with things. She was wonderful with all my dogs and it was very sad to see her go.
She… read more
(Excellent
)
3 Aug 2019
Left by Workawayer (Patricia) for host
Time flies, it’s already more than two month since I left Helen’s House and I’m still missing this place so much. I spend only 11 days at the sanctuary and Helen‘s house, but I got already so attached to all the dogs that it was difficult not to cry when I was leaving. Sometimes the work was hard when it was raining all day and you got scratches… read more
3 Jul 2019
Left by Workawayer (Stefan) for host
It was an absolute pleasure working at Helen’s House. What initially started as a three week stay quickly turned into two months.
Working with and learning the personality’s of her beautiful dogs is incredibly rewarding. It’s impossible not to fall in love with them all.
Helen is an incredibly dedicated woman doing her best to make a difference… read more
Working with and learning the personality’s of her beautiful dogs is incredibly rewarding. It’s impossible not to fall in love with them all.
Helen is an incredibly dedicated woman doing her best to make a difference… read more
5 May 2019
Left by Workawayer (Camilla) for host
I spend a month at Helen's house, three at the sanctuary and one at Helen's, and what an experience. It is, at times, hard work, but with that said, the work is increadibly rewarding. The dogs are all very love-able which totally makes up for the poo-collecting. The work Helen is doing for the dogs and setting up the sanctuary is inspiring and I… read more
14 Apr 2019
Left by Workawayer (Lizzie) for host
My friend and I helped at the dog sanctuary in September 2018 for a couple of weeks. I'd really recommend coming to help out, ideally for at least 10 days (learning the routine/adapting to the vibrant dog-environment certainly takes a few days, but it's certainly worth it)!
Helen is a very impressive lady, and it's by no means a small project… read more
Helen is a very impressive lady, and it's by no means a small project… read more
26 Mar 2019
Left by Workawayer (Jacky & Karine) for host
It was a real pleasure to meet Hélène and her dogs! We spent only one week in this place but we saw how she was giving all the love she can. Our son enjoyed to walk and to run with the dogs and me too! If you come here you will meet kind volunteers and very kind host but the most interesting is to discover all the histories about this dogs who… read more
26 Mar 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Jacky & Karine)
What an absolute honour and pleasure to have had this wonderful family with us and help us so much. Always with a smile and achieved so much in such a short time. Jacky worked so hard to make our lives easier and fixed so many broken gates and locks and built a beautiful new gate which was so very much needed. Karine and Mathis walked the dogs and… read more
(Excellent
)
1 Mar 2019
Left by Workawayer (Annie) for host
I volunteered for Helen last summer, but never got around to leaving a review right after. However, I wanted to make sure Helen is properly recognized for her great work maintaining the dog sanctuary. I couldn't imagine a better first workaway experience. I was only able to volunteer for two weeks, but I think about the dogs and my time at the… read more
29 Jan 2019
Left by Workawayer (Katarzyna) for host
A must-go-to for dog lovers. I have stayed at Helen's only for a week. And a week is way too short, not only because the time flies by quickly (as there is always something on the schedule and things come up on the go), but also because I needed a week to get familiar with the daily routine, schedules and names of all the lovely habitants at… read more
22 Nov 2018
Left by Workawayer (Natalie) for host
Helen is the most selfless person I have met, she's moved to a country solely to look after all these dogs (she recently reached 100 dogs moved onto their forever homes!) and is doing an amazing job and has saved so many lives, provided shelter for dogs who would have frozen throughout the Winter, and provided food for dogs that would have starved… read more
25 Sep 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Anderson & Ning-hsin)
It was an absolute pleasure to host this wonderful couple, always with a smile on their faces and nothing was too much trouble and they worked so hard and took such great care of the dogs. They are very much missed. Wishing them both every success for the future. They really deserve it.
(Excellent
)
30 Aug 2018
Left by Workawayer (Anderson & Ning-hsin) for host
We spent 27 days in the sanctuary with Helen and dogs, that was great, amazing and sweet experience in our life. Normally we feed dogs and walk with them twice per day, for who does love dogs that can’t be called a job because spent all the day with this fantastic animals is just beautiful, one of our best memories it was when we free some of the… read more
20 Sep 2018
Left by Workawayer (Imogen) for host
We spent 2 weeks with Helen, staying in her home and helping to look after her packs of beloved dogs both at home and at the sanctuary. The early mornings and poop scooping - it’s gotta be done - are easily compensated by the rewarding feeling you get when you’ve fed, watered and cleaned out around 100 dogs and the barking settles and the dogs are… read more
29 Aug 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Bea)
It was such an absolute pleasure having Bea to stay and she was so easy to get on with and wonderful to have around. A true animal lover and absolutely brilliant with the dogs, especially the puppies which she took such wonderful care of through the night in her room and was up in the early hours of the morning feeding them. Bea is very hard… read more
(Excellent
)
29 Aug 2018
Left by Workawayer (Bea) for host
My time at Helen's House has had a really big impact on me and my perspective on life. Helen is an amazing woman who does all she can to help wherever possible and she has changed the lives of so many dogs for the better. I found a real friend in Helen and I was also lucky to meet other lovely volunteers whilst out there. The work is so… read more
27 Aug 2018
Left by Workawayer (Meagan) for host
I had such an amazing month staying with Helen and her dogs! Helen is very welcoming and makes sure her volunteers are happy and healthy. This was my third workaway and by far the most rewarding. The work is easy- just give all the love and cuddles you have to these incredible dogs. I highly recommend bringing dog toys or treats with you. It was… read more
5 Aug 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Meagan)
Absolutely brilliant, amazing, hard working wonderful young lady who would turn her hand to anything and help with absolutely everything and always with willingness and a big smile. What a fantastic outlook on life and the dogs all absolutely loved you Meagan and miss you loads!!
(Excellent
)
27 Aug 2018
Left by Workawayer (Floor) for host
This summer I spent a month in Helens sanctuary and it was one of my best experiences ever.
Helen is an amazing person. I really admire the work she does. She puts all her heart in giving these dogs all the best they deserve. Besides her dogs, she is also a great person for her volunteers and puts a lot of effort in making your stay as comfortable… read more
Helen is an amazing person. I really admire the work she does. She puts all her heart in giving these dogs all the best they deserve. Besides her dogs, she is also a great person for her volunteers and puts a lot of effort in making your stay as comfortable… read more
5 Aug 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Floor)
What a special amazing beautiful young lady who was absolutely brilliant with all the dogs and helped me enormously and was able to work independently when required, we are missing her enormously and hope she will be coming back.
(Excellent
)
26 Aug 2018
Left by Workawayer (Yi) for host
This was my first workaway.I am greatful to have a chance to stay about 6 days with Helen!
I learned a lot about taking care of dogs, puppies from this great lady.
I've also heard a lot of stories about how Helen recused each dogs.It is amazing to see some dogs that was badly wounded before and now are healthy and happy.
My favorite part of a… read more
I learned a lot about taking care of dogs, puppies from this great lady.
I've also heard a lot of stories about how Helen recused each dogs.It is amazing to see some dogs that was badly wounded before and now are healthy and happy.
My favorite part of a… read more
5 Aug 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Steve)
It was an absolute pleasure having Steve staying with us and he was an enormous help and took every challenge on the chin and had no hesitation what so ever in dealing with any situation he was faced with. Absolutely lovely with the dogs and a real pleasure to have around. A massive thank you Steve for everything.
(Excellent
)
5 Aug 2018
Left by Workawayer (Steve) for host
I had a great time volunteering with Helen and the dogs for just over two weeks.
It was a little overwhelming at first as but once you get to know the dogs it becomes a lot of fun, although it could be a little heartbreaking at times. Especially when you have to say goodbye!
A truly rewarding experience that I won't forget.
It was a little overwhelming at first as but once you get to know the dogs it becomes a lot of fun, although it could be a little heartbreaking at times. Especially when you have to say goodbye!
A truly rewarding experience that I won't forget.
17 Jun 2018
Left by Workawayer (Dorle) for host
I spend a whole month (a week longer than planed) at Helens house and I LOVED it! I could not agree more with all the other workawayers that left an exellent review. I admit that in the beginning everthing can be quite overwhelming. But after a few days every single dog has a name and a character and they all are adorable and so grateful for a… read more
12 May 2018
Left by Workawayer (Victória & Guilherme ) for host
This was our first workaway. We stayed for 28 days at Helen's dog shelter, an admirable person who has lived in the country for two years doing this job of rescueing abandoned dogs. She has over 80 dogs, who are fed, taken to the veterinarian, receive lots of love and the best possible treatment. Everyone is very loving. All they need is a house… read more
22 Mar 2018
Left by Workawayer (Anieke) for host
Thank you Helen (and all the other volunteers, workers and dogs) for the amazing time I had! The work is so important and rewarding! Combine that with a great atmosphere, delicious dinners, getting to know the English culture, seeing dogs improve and cuddling them, and you'll have the best time. Even though sometimes it's less appealing, for… read more
21 Mar 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Anieke)
What an amazing young lady, it was an absolute pleasure to have Anieke staying with us and she was absolutely brilliant with all the dogs and extremely hard working and fun and loving to all the animals. Nothing was too much trouble and always the first to jump up to do anything that was required. What a wonderful refreshing happy person to have… read more
(Excellent
)
12 Mar 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Lachlan & Molly-ann)
Lachlan and Molly helped out at my animal sanctuary for a month at the most difficult and trying time possible and their help was invaluable and so very much appreciated, despite everything, always a friendly smile and a willingness to try anything, including giving some sick pups injections daily. They clearly have a great love of animals and are… read more
(Excellent
)
8 Mar 2018
Left by Workawayer (Romana) for host
11 Jan 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Romana)
(Negative
)
22 Oct 2017
Left by Workawayer (Further) for host
This was my first Workaway experience. I was there for some weeks, with a break in between, this summer (2017).
I’m very impressed with Helen and what she is doing. It takes a lot of courage, determination and love for dogs to move to another country without knowing the language, culture or anyone and basically single handedly create a dog… read more
I’m very impressed with Helen and what she is doing. It takes a lot of courage, determination and love for dogs to move to another country without knowing the language, culture or anyone and basically single handedly create a dog… read more
10 Oct 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Kenneth)
We so enjoyed Kenny coming and staying with us and helping us out and didn't mind getting involved in anything we asked him to do. He is a really lovely guy and a pleasure to be around and a real animal lover and very kind, caring person. I wish him well in his onward travels and you will be very lucky if you are lucky enough to have Kenny help… read more
(Excellent
)
10 Oct 2017
Left by Workawayer (Kenneth) for host
Helen is doing an amazing Job, saving and helping as many dogs as she can with a lot of success!
It was a pleasure to help out and see how horrible treated dogs turned into lovely, happy ones because of her.
The Kind of work is not very hard and to give some attention or cuddle the Dogs is something that everybody would love to do. But of course… read more
It was a pleasure to help out and see how horrible treated dogs turned into lovely, happy ones because of her.
The Kind of work is not very hard and to give some attention or cuddle the Dogs is something that everybody would love to do. But of course… read more
15 Sep 2017
Left by Workawayer (Niclas & Luisa) for host
Well, what should we say. It was the most wonderful time!! We stayed three weeks and it felt way too short. (Though it will probably just get harder to leave the longer you stay..)
The work is not very physically demanding and we only had to work about one and a half hour in the moring and in the evening to feed the dogs and clean their kennels.… read more
The work is not very physically demanding and we only had to work about one and a half hour in the moring and in the evening to feed the dogs and clean their kennels.… read more
23 Jul 2017
Left by Workawayer (Mona) for host
First thank you Helen, I had an absolutely fantastic time staying at your place.
This was my first workaway experience and Helen and her dogs made this an lovely stay.
It's clear to see, that she really cares for all the dogs there and how important the work she does is.
During my stay I was kind of busy the most time, with feeding the dogs, go… read more
This was my first workaway experience and Helen and her dogs made this an lovely stay.
It's clear to see, that she really cares for all the dogs there and how important the work she does is.
During my stay I was kind of busy the most time, with feeding the dogs, go… read more
