If you’re looking to volunteer with dogs in France and reconnect with a simpler, more grounded lifestyle, this peaceful mountain retreat in the French Pyrénées offers a special opportunity. Charlotte, a warm and open host with a French-Turkish background, has returned to her roots after years of travelling and WWOOFing abroad. Her two-hectare property sits high in the mountains, surrounded by spectacular views and filled with the sounds of nature. With four large rescue dogs, a love of community, and a spirit of creativity, she invites like-minded volunteers to share in this unique way of life.
Volunteer with Dogs in France: Tasks & Roles
To volunteer with dogs in France at Charlotte’s home is to become part of their daily rhythm. Volunteers help with feeding the dogs each morning and evening, walking them for around an hour a day, and offering gentle training and companionship. The dogs are all rescues from Türkiye and require a confident, calm presence—someone who can offer structure with kindness.
In addition to animal care, volunteers may lend a hand with light DIY projects, such as building shelves or repairing fencing, along with occasional gardening, weeding, and household tasks. There may also be support needed in the kitchen or with small domestic chores. Creative contributions are always welcome, whether it’s painting a mural, making land art, or bringing a new idea to life. A flexible and collaborative attitude is key.
Volunteer with Dogs in France: Living & Getting There
In exchange for about five hours of help a day, five days a week, volunteers receive a private double room with views of the garden or surrounding mountains. Meals are organic and mainly vegetarian. Breakfast and lunch are self-served, while dinners are cooked and shared together, offering a chance to connect and reflect. The house has Wi-Fi and reliable 4G signal, though there’s no television—life here flows to the rhythms of the land and the animals.
The closest airport is Tarbes–Lourdes–Pyrénées (LDE), and transport can be arranged from Lourdes, Tarbes, or Bagnères-de-Bigorre for those arriving via public transport. Volunteers travelling in vans or campers are also welcome and can park safely on the property.
Volunteer with Dogs in France: What Else
To volunteer with dogs in France in this setting is more than a work exchange—it’s a shared experience of living simply, caring deeply, and connecting with nature and animals. Charlotte values clear communication, respect, and reliability. Volunteers who are drawn to mindful living, enjoy being part of a small community, and feel confident around large dogs will find a true sense of belonging here.
With moments of yoga, music, or movement woven naturally into the day, there’s plenty of space for joy, calm, and creative expression. Whether you’re feeding the dogs, tending the garden, or sitting quietly under the stars, life in this corner of the Pyrénées is as enriching as it is serene.
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