Helping and adapting cats or dogs in Bali

Many foreign residents in Bali decide to adopt a cat or a dog. One reason is th that there are many many stray animals in Bali that need help and a person to take care of them.

When you visit Bali as a tourist, you cannot miss the many dogs that are roaming the streets, particularly at night , particularly in the re residential areas and more rural areas.

Some of these stray animals do indeed suffer and are in bad conditions and therefore in the need of help.

If you decide to help one of these poor animals as a tourist or even play with the idea if you are staying in Bali for a longer period then there are a few ways to do that yet we suggest to involve vets or one of the animal welfare organisations.

How to help or Adopt a Dog or a Cat in Bali

We suggest you get in touch with the organizations and vets we have listed below. Also, if you see a suffering animal on the street and you want to help, you can reach out to them and ask what to do. Although not everyone can adopt a dog, there are other options to help more dogs avoid cruelty, illness, and even culling, which does unfortunately still happen.

However, remember, just because you come across a dog that doesn’t have an owner doesn’t mean it’s a stray. In actuality, it’s estimated that the majority of the dogs wandering the streets of Bali aren’t actually homeless.

The Bali Dog – a Cultural Heritage

More about this special animal and its cultural and historical significance

Adopting & Owning Pets: FAQ

Why are there many stray dogs in Bali?

Many Bali dogs are not sterilised or castrated. And even the dogs that are no stray but live among Balinese communities and families the Balinese owners let them go free and mate.

How can I adopt a stray animal?

Many adoption organizations have cats and dogs of varying ages ready to be taken home, all healthy and vaccinated, and some have been sterilized. If you are looking to stay in Indonesia long-term, please adopt as it is the best, safest, and legal practice to protect and save the rescued animals. Adoption is free, who wouldn’t want to adopt an animal from a rescue organization? However, first consider the costs of food and vet bills, although adding a member to your family helps save these adorable creatures.

If you aren’t looking to permanently settle here, many organizations offer a foster program that involves a shorter commitment if you do not reside in Bali full time. Just being able to provide them a home full of love, and lots of cuddles, even if its temporary, goes a very long way.

What can I do to help if I see a stray animal?

Some stray dogs belong to the neighbourhood or community so they are not for you to be saved or taken away. If you come across a stray dog (or cat) and If they are not aggressive, you probably can feed the dogs, which many residents do regularly.

However, if you encounter abandoned puppies who are not doing well, or if they are abandoned on a busy street, please take them to the nearest vet. If the dogs are sick or injured or have a severe skin disease, take note of their location and notify a veterinarian or one of the animal welfare organisations; if the dog is friendly enough to approach it, wrap it in a blanket and carry it to the vet clinic.

Some foundations are overcrowded and do not have adequate space anymore but they will give you good advise on what you can do.

Animal Protection and Adoption Organizations

Barc 4 Bali

BARC is a no-kill shelter providing vaccination, sterilization and other necessary medical assistance to all rescued animals. We operate a street sterilization program to help stop the relentless flow of unwanted puppies. Additionally we conduct education programs in the Balinese community.

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Villa Kitty

Villa Kitty was founded as a refuge for cats and kittens in 2009. Today, it is a busy, colourful and ordered village for the disadvantaged feline and canine residents of Bali. Vets work in a clean and safe surgery and clinic to assess and manage the wounded and damaged.

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Bawa Bali

Bali Animal Welfare Association (BAWA) is a non-profit organisation based in Bali, Indonesia. BAWA directly relieves the suffering of animals by providing emergency response and rescue. A key focus is Bali’s Heritage Dog – the island’s genetically unique street dog.

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Bali Dog Association

Bali Dog Association is creating a hidden paradise for Dog lovers waiting to be discovered. As one of the largest dog sanctuary in Bali, we are home to 180 Dogs. With views of lush rice fields all around, a team of with the biggest heart to help in any way they can.

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