Zarkovica Animal Shelter
Zarkovica Animal Shelter
Zarkovica Animal Shelter
5
This location was reported permanently closed
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Duration: More than 3 hours
Meets animal welfare guidelines
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
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5.0
343 reviews
Excellent
336
Very good
2
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2
Poor
1
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2
Sab Kalim
3 contributions
Aug 2021
If you are in the Dubrovnik area I would highly recommend visiting Zarkovica Animal Shelter. Besides the amazing views of Dubrovnik, the shelter is filled with hundreds of dogs who are thrilled to spend time with you, along with incredibly caring staff dedicated to making a difference in the dog's lives. The staff are extremely welcoming and take the time to tell you stories of the many dogs at the shelter.
We left sad we could not take home all of the fur babies that we connected with, but were glad we could give the dogs some love and make the donations that we could to the shelter.
If you are an animal lover you will not regret visiting the animals who are so deserving of love and attention!
Thank you again to Sandra, Gracija, and the entire team at Zarkovica for the amazing work that they do! They are truly heroes and I can not wait to return.
We left sad we could not take home all of the fur babies that we connected with, but were glad we could give the dogs some love and make the donations that we could to the shelter.
If you are an animal lover you will not regret visiting the animals who are so deserving of love and attention!
Thank you again to Sandra, Gracija, and the entire team at Zarkovica for the amazing work that they do! They are truly heroes and I can not wait to return.
Written August 25, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Josh D
4 contributions
Apr 2022
We arrived at the dog shelter unannounced yet Tomo (who was very busy and preparing the dogs for the forecasted rain storm) was more than willing to lend his time and give us a tour of this wonderful place.
Tomo not only knew the name of every dog (250 + in total) but he also knew the background, personality and temperament of each individual dog. He also had a story a tell about each dog which really made us understand how much he cares for and loves these animals. It is fair to say that without this shelter each and everyone one of these dogs would not be alive today. Zarkovica is giving these amazing animals another chance at life and each dog we saw on the day was so happy and cheerful to see us - but more so Tomo - as we approached each enclosure every dog was so happy to see him which goes to show the relationship he is able to maintain with 250 dogs!
It is very close to Old Town and we easily got to the shelter with a quick Uber ride (there is a bus route available alongside general taxis). I would encourage anyone during their visit to Dubrovnik to visit Zarkovica. It can be a quick 10/15 minute visit or you can give more of your time to help walk the dogs etc. We gave a donation and Tomo was very appreciative of it.
I would say that non animal/dog lovers may be intimidated by this place, particularly upon arrival as it is unlike any dog shelter we have seen before but don't let it put you off. It was a part of our holiday that has stayed with us and the more we digest it and think back to our visit the more emotional we become. We wish we could have given more money or gave more time to help walk the dogs etc. The work they do at this shelter can not be underestimated.
As a dog lover I am so grateful for the likes of Tomo and the team and I hope they can keep Zarkovica going and continue to save the lives of many dogs.
Thank you Zarkovica
Tomo not only knew the name of every dog (250 + in total) but he also knew the background, personality and temperament of each individual dog. He also had a story a tell about each dog which really made us understand how much he cares for and loves these animals. It is fair to say that without this shelter each and everyone one of these dogs would not be alive today. Zarkovica is giving these amazing animals another chance at life and each dog we saw on the day was so happy and cheerful to see us - but more so Tomo - as we approached each enclosure every dog was so happy to see him which goes to show the relationship he is able to maintain with 250 dogs!
It is very close to Old Town and we easily got to the shelter with a quick Uber ride (there is a bus route available alongside general taxis). I would encourage anyone during their visit to Dubrovnik to visit Zarkovica. It can be a quick 10/15 minute visit or you can give more of your time to help walk the dogs etc. We gave a donation and Tomo was very appreciative of it.
I would say that non animal/dog lovers may be intimidated by this place, particularly upon arrival as it is unlike any dog shelter we have seen before but don't let it put you off. It was a part of our holiday that has stayed with us and the more we digest it and think back to our visit the more emotional we become. We wish we could have given more money or gave more time to help walk the dogs etc. The work they do at this shelter can not be underestimated.
As a dog lover I am so grateful for the likes of Tomo and the team and I hope they can keep Zarkovica going and continue to save the lives of many dogs.
Thank you Zarkovica
Written April 26, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sam C
1 contribution
Feb 2022 • Couples
A small, very worthwhile drive from Dubrovnik centre, the Azil Zarkovica dog shelter is an absolute must visit location. With close to 300 beautiful rescue dogs to see and say hello to, the shelter deserves more attention and help.
We felt very welcomed as we walked the premises and were shocked by the sheer number of abandoned and neglected dogs taken into the care of the exceptionally kind hearted owners. (Who volunteer restlessly to care for the dogs without any water or electricity)
I cannot recommend visiting the shelter highly enough for anyone with a love for animals or dogs.
If you’re going to Dubrovnik you must add this to your to do list.
If I could give more than 5 stars I would, without a shadow of a doubt.
We felt very welcomed as we walked the premises and were shocked by the sheer number of abandoned and neglected dogs taken into the care of the exceptionally kind hearted owners. (Who volunteer restlessly to care for the dogs without any water or electricity)
I cannot recommend visiting the shelter highly enough for anyone with a love for animals or dogs.
If you’re going to Dubrovnik you must add this to your to do list.
If I could give more than 5 stars I would, without a shadow of a doubt.
Written February 8, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Janne N
4 contributions
Mar 2022 • Couples
When visiting Dubrovnik you have to stop by Zarkovica Animal Shelter. Tomo and Sandra are there to welcome you and tell everything about the shelter. If you would like to help or volunteer it is a good idea to go there in the morning. Tomo takes a LOT of dogs on a walk every morning, every day... so help is very welcome! Just wait in front of the gate ( don't enter it) and wait for Tomo or give him a call.
Sandra started this shelter and is extremely passionate about rescuing animals. Sandra, as well as Tomo, know every dog in the shelter (around 250). If you are interested in adopting it is a very good idea to explain tot them what you're looking for and they will be able to make a perfect match. They run this shelter without the support of Dubrovnik city, so feel free to donate something. Every donation means a lot to them. A visit here will warm your heart! We loved this place and are SO happy we stopped by!
Sandra started this shelter and is extremely passionate about rescuing animals. Sandra, as well as Tomo, know every dog in the shelter (around 250). If you are interested in adopting it is a very good idea to explain tot them what you're looking for and they will be able to make a perfect match. They run this shelter without the support of Dubrovnik city, so feel free to donate something. Every donation means a lot to them. A visit here will warm your heart! We loved this place and are SO happy we stopped by!
Written April 13, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
keith r
Limerick, Ireland25 contributions
Aug 2021 • Couples
We had such a lovely time at Žarkovica animal shelter. There are so many happy dogs walking around or having a nap in a corner. We spent about four hours there and left with a huge smile.
Anja (not sure if I got the name right) brought us several dogs to walk with about a ten minute walk per dog. We arrived early, around quarter to 9, it was already getting hot and by 11 all of the dogs had been walked and they were looking for a spot to nap. Any later in the day is too hot to walk the dogs in this temperature (30+° C)
Melissa then gave us a guided tour of the rest of the shelter and explained the history to us. The views of the old Town and Lokrum island are incredible from the shelter which is an added bonus.
The Staff were incredible, including Anja, Melissa, Tomo and of course Sandra who has devoted her life to helping hundreds of animals.
The dogs were lovely and friendly. Some had separate runs where they lived with friends. Some were given more freedom to roam around and some were in a separate communal area. They were all happy and well taken care of. It is suitable for dog lovers of all ages.
However they do need help. They make absolutely every penny count and their resources are limited. If you are visiting please volunteer some time to walk some of the dogs or if you are looking to donate then money is best as they will know what is most urgently needed.
Anja (not sure if I got the name right) brought us several dogs to walk with about a ten minute walk per dog. We arrived early, around quarter to 9, it was already getting hot and by 11 all of the dogs had been walked and they were looking for a spot to nap. Any later in the day is too hot to walk the dogs in this temperature (30+° C)
Melissa then gave us a guided tour of the rest of the shelter and explained the history to us. The views of the old Town and Lokrum island are incredible from the shelter which is an added bonus.
The Staff were incredible, including Anja, Melissa, Tomo and of course Sandra who has devoted her life to helping hundreds of animals.
The dogs were lovely and friendly. Some had separate runs where they lived with friends. Some were given more freedom to roam around and some were in a separate communal area. They were all happy and well taken care of. It is suitable for dog lovers of all ages.
However they do need help. They make absolutely every penny count and their resources are limited. If you are visiting please volunteer some time to walk some of the dogs or if you are looking to donate then money is best as they will know what is most urgently needed.
Written August 13, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Peter K
Stenloese, Denmark9 contributions
Aug 2021 • Couples
Among all the great attractions in Dubrovnic the dog shelter on top of the mountain in Dubrovnic was the best one. I am a little bit affraid of dogs because I was bitten by one as a child. But at the dog shelter I was welcomed by so many dogs that I stopped counting them. They were all so kind and curious. The conditions are very basic and I will also recommend everyone to donate money to the place and the volunteers working there.
Written August 22, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kim
8 contributions
Aug 2021 • Solo
I was on holiday in Dubrovnik last summer and decided to visit the shelter to make a donation and to see if I could help them out with volunteering for a day. The people there were very kind and although They didnt know I was coming they were very welcoming and showed me around. There are a lot of dogs especially and that means a lot of hard work for the volunteers working there. They don’t have much but make the best of it and you see the dogs are taken good care of with the little they have. I was able to help walk with multiple dogs while I was there. I would strongly recommend, if you’re in Dubrovnik, to take a look and make an donation (even small ones) . They are very thankful! And the dogs are wonderful.
Written February 24, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Natasha288
Edinburgh, UK14 contributions
Aug 2021 • Solo
I had a wonderful visit to the sanctuary. After reading the reviews I went first thing in the morning so I could help with dog walks (before it got way too hot) and any other tasks that needed doing. No need to book, you can just turn up on the day. All the staff were so friendly, passionate and attentive to the dogs and you can see that the dogs are really well looked after. I would highly recommend this to any animal lover visiting Dubrovnik, whether you would like to volunteer or just visit and donate - any help counts. I would recommend visiting first thing in the morning before the heat (staff are there from 5am!)
Written August 12, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Madaboutthedog
Kent15 contributions
Jun 2022 • Couples
We visited this animal shelter today and enjoyed meeting the 200+ residents. The volunteers that work here do an amazing job and it was a pleasure to help walk some of the lovely dogs. They get no support from local government and survive on donations alone. The dogs are happy to meet new visitors and enjoy cuddles and all the fuss you can spare. Please visit if in the area. It will touch your heart.
Written June 23, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
nickhale1980
Brighton and Hove, UK15 contributions
Sep 2021 • Family
This was something I stumbled across on Trip Advisor and what a great find. My 9 year old daughter absolutely loves dogs and as we have a nervous cat at home, we’ve not been able to get one for ourselves. So when I saw this shelter, I thought it would be great to visit and see if we could help out for a while.
I was amazed that Ana manages to this whole place on her own and works so hard to look after so many animals. It’s unbelievable to learn that the City doesn’t support her at all, and that it falls on the people to keep things going. There is no water or electric and she relies on the fire service to bring her water each week so that the animals have something to drink.
We walked about 10 dogs and hopefully gave Ana some time to get on with other jobs. It was great to meet all of the dogs and my daughter loved every second of our time there.
Thank you to Ana for telling us about the work she does. I’ve made a donation via PayPal and hope you continue to be supported by the public.
I was amazed that Ana manages to this whole place on her own and works so hard to look after so many animals. It’s unbelievable to learn that the City doesn’t support her at all, and that it falls on the people to keep things going. There is no water or electric and she relies on the fire service to bring her water each week so that the animals have something to drink.
We walked about 10 dogs and hopefully gave Ana some time to get on with other jobs. It was great to meet all of the dogs and my daughter loved every second of our time there.
Thank you to Ana for telling us about the work she does. I’ve made a donation via PayPal and hope you continue to be supported by the public.
Written September 2, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We are visiting in a few weeks around the area and wondering can you just turn up to walk dogs or do you have to get in contact first? Could only find form for adoption in contact information
Written March 29, 2023
Hi. Does anyone know if we are ok to take our children with us to visit? They are 14 and 10. Thanks for any advice
Written April 14, 2022
I would imagine they would be welcome. The owner is really friendly. I whattsaped when we were in town so try and get in touch to confirm.
Written April 19, 2022
Hi!
I will be in Dubrovnik in few days, and i wanted to know if it’s possible to take a dog (or 2 because we are 2) during the day to go hiking!! We did that a lot in Hawaii.
Do you do that kind of activity with the dog?
Thank you
Written September 19, 2019
I wouldn’t suggest it. Some are very friendly, some not so much. It’s very densely populated and it may cause a few problems.
Written January 9, 2020
I know this is a long shot, but thought I would try... there is a dog I met while there that I am trying to adopt and fly to the United States. However I need someone to volunteer to check the dog crate as cargo to get him here... is anyone flying from Croatia to the US any time soon and would be willing to check a dog as a bag?! I will of course pay for all the fees and make sure the paper work is in place, but really just need someone who is already flying back to help me out!! Please reach out if this is something you are interested in helping me with this and we will find a way to get in touch!
It doesn’t matter where in the US you are flying to, I will pick him up from there!
Looking forward to anyone’s help!!!
Written September 6, 2019
Oh, I'm very glad to hear! That dog must be very lucky! I really hope that someone can help. Wish you all the best with your new family member!
Written September 9, 2019
Is there a fee to visit the shelter?
Written July 28, 2019
Hi I am coming over in August and have 2 dogs myself. I’m sure I have some blankets, towels, toys and balls that I could bring if they would be of any use and of course a few packets of treats. Also is it easy to get to the shelter by walking or a bus?? Thanks. Kim.
Written May 13, 2019
Caroline R
Courtenay, Canada
There is a bus going by there multiple times throughout the day. Just tell the driver where you want dropping off. Easy.
Written June 4, 2019
We are coming in June. Does the shelter need supplies like leashes collars , flea medication. Not sure if there is heartworm in Croatia.
Written February 11, 2019
Search for the new website of Zarkovica Animal Shelter for more information.
They also have an Facebook page.
Written March 2, 2019
Is this shelter still open as there are no recent posts and I can’t find a Facebook account. I have 6 days in Dubrovnik this year and would like to volunteer.
Written February 7, 2019
they also have a website and I am sure would welcome your help
zarkovicaanimalshelter
Opening hours: 7am-7pm every day
Address: Žarkovica ul., 20207, Bosanka, Croatia
Getting here
By public transport: Catch bus 17 from Pile Gate (in Old City of Dubrovnik). It should be labelled Bosanka - it runs all day (roughly every hour) and it stops right outside the shelter.
Contact number: +385 91 591 8434 (English or Croatian) or +385 91 881 5711 (Croatian only)
Written February 17, 2019
Hi I have seen a white cat by the cable car stop at the lower level. He doesn't look in the best shape, his eyes and ears look sore. He is very friendly. Is anyone able to help? I tried looking for a way of posting on Facebook but could not see how to. Thanks.
Written September 25, 2018
Tripadvisor won’t allow me to post a link to the sanctuary’s Facebook page but please search for it under the name “Sandra Sambrailo”. I’m sure she will help the cat if she can.
Written September 27, 2018
Hi,
We were just at the Dubrovnik airport and there's a sweet dog just laying outside the arrival area downstairs. He looks like a labrador cross. We are flying out in a couple of hours but was hoping someone could go and help this sweet boy. Please let us know whether you can help.
Written May 29, 2018
Hi, I've just seen your message that was left 3 days ago. If you contact the shelter on Facebook and tell them where the dog was, I'm sure they'll be able to help you.
Written June 1, 2018
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