Zarkovica Animal Shelter
Zarkovica Animal Shelter
Zarkovica Animal Shelter
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
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5.0
343 reviews
Excellent
336
Very good
2
Average
2
Poor
1
Terrible
2
Mia S
Sonoma, CA17 contributions
Jul 2021
Take an uber (or bus 17 from the Pile gate) and spend time vounteering to walk the dogs, feed/water them, mend fences and build dog houses. It is an amazing place that is run by only a few dedicated locals who work tirelessly take care of the 400 homeless dogs. The entire shelter is run by donations and they are in dire need of dog food, supplies, medicine and money. The dogs seemed very happy and content, although many were in need of basic medicine/vet care. The employees were wonderful, spoke English and worked very hard! Go early in the morning because it gets very hot in the afternoons. Bring treats and please donate your time and money to help them - see their website for items they need.
Written August 10, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
welshjali
Swansea County, UK19 contributions
Oct 2021 • Family
Getting to sanctuary..tried bus from Pile gate but very infrequent so plan ahead by checking bus timetable or get a taxi. We paid 150kn by cab.Best to get number of cab driver for return trip or an Uber as it is remote. Amazing views on windy remote road up high over city though.
Shelter is very basic so if you want to visit a sparkly new type building don't go. Volunteer who showed us around knew all dogs so well,their histories and behaviours. Literally everything from tiny fluffy husky pups to old and rather infirm mongrels and everything in between. We spent a couple of hours chatting and cuddling the dogs and agreed we had an amazing view from there so would donate money we would have spent on cable car and gave that a miss instead!
Shelter is very basic so if you want to visit a sparkly new type building don't go. Volunteer who showed us around knew all dogs so well,their histories and behaviours. Literally everything from tiny fluffy husky pups to old and rather infirm mongrels and everything in between. We spent a couple of hours chatting and cuddling the dogs and agreed we had an amazing view from there so would donate money we would have spent on cable car and gave that a miss instead!
Written October 20, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Marian P
1 contribution
Sep 2021 • Friends
We visited the shelter for a few hours and were able to help out by walking some of the dogs. We were given a tour and got to meet many dogs.
The staff are incredibly hard workers and dedicated to the animals. The dogs are happy and well cared for.
We got a taxi from the old town and it took less than 15 minutes to get to the shelter and cost 150 kn. To get back to the old town we got a bus which cost only 15kn each and was also very quick.
Would highly recommend visiting the shelter, it is a very manageable trip even if you only have a few hours to spare and the staff are very appreciative of any help. There are a large volume of dogs so being able to help out by getting them out for a walk is a great way to spend some time.
The staff are incredibly hard workers and dedicated to the animals. The dogs are happy and well cared for.
We got a taxi from the old town and it took less than 15 minutes to get to the shelter and cost 150 kn. To get back to the old town we got a bus which cost only 15kn each and was also very quick.
Would highly recommend visiting the shelter, it is a very manageable trip even if you only have a few hours to spare and the staff are very appreciative of any help. There are a large volume of dogs so being able to help out by getting them out for a walk is a great way to spend some time.
Written September 11, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Josh D
1 contribution
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.
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.
Janne N
3 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.
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.
Alexia T
Bondy, France7 contributions
Sep 2022 • Couples
Different from your typical touristic attraction. This shelter offers a magnificent view of Dubrovnik city and cares for more than 300 dogs. You can really feel that the staff cares deeply for the animals, know all their names, all their characteristics.
We came to Dubrovnik to explore the old city but decided to end visiting this shelter.
Feels good to not do only selfish activities on vacations. Buy some food for the dogs, pet them for a few minutes/hour if you have time, you will already feel better and like you did something good during your vacay!
Thank you to the staff for the good you’re doing!
We came to Dubrovnik to explore the old city but decided to end visiting this shelter.
Feels good to not do only selfish activities on vacations. Buy some food for the dogs, pet them for a few minutes/hour if you have time, you will already feel better and like you did something good during your vacay!
Thank you to the staff for the good you’re doing!
Written September 8, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Madaboutthedog
Kent4 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.
Kim
3 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.
Sabby1976
United Kingdom10 contributions
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
Jo A
8 contributions
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.
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
Joe
Coventry, UK10 contributions
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.
Audrey B
7 contributions
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!!!
Babypeach
Stockholm, Sweden4 contributions
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!
KirillLukjanov
London, UK56 contributions
Is there a fee to visit the shelter?
Xavier
2 contributions
No but you can make a donation to help them
Kim
Perth, UK2 contributions
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.
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.
Janice B
Beamsville, Canada56 contributions
We are coming in June. Does the shelter need supplies like leashes collars , flea medication. Not sure if there is heartworm in Croatia.
iris76nl
The Netherlands17 contributions
Search for the new website of Zarkovica Animal Shelter for more information.
They also have an Facebook page.
KateCaringbah
Sydney, Australia1,544 contributions
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.
KeepGoing
Cape Town, South Africa453 contributions
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)
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.
Karen P
6 contributions
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.
Andy T
5 contributions
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.
Karen P
6 contributions
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.
Zarkovica Animal Shelter (Dubrovnik) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go
Frequently Asked Questions about Zarkovica Animal Shelter
- Hotels near Zarkovica Animal Shelter:
- (0.53 mi) Villa Dubrovnik
- (0.35 mi) APARTMENT ANA FANTASTIC VIEW
- (0.97 mi) Hotel Excelsior Dubrovnik
- (1.34 mi) Karmen Apartments
- (0.46 mi) Apartment Kate, spectacular views of the Adriatic and The Old Town
- Restaurants near Zarkovica Animal Shelter:
- (0.59 mi) Konoba Dubrava
- (1.08 mi) Konoba Popret
- (1.31 mi) Ezza Steak & Cocktail Bar
- (1.37 mi) Gradska Kavana Arsenal
- (1.21 mi) Kavana Lazareti