Navarino Pet Community & “Messinia without strays”

Supported By: Navarino

Costa Navarino, the prime, sustainable destination in the Mediterranean, is located in the Greek region of Messinia in the southwest Peloponnese. At the heart of Costa Navarino’s philosophy lies a strong commitment to environmental and social responsibility, aiming at a sustainable tourism development in harmony with the natural environment and local communities of Messinia.

Navarino Pet Community aims to increase awareness on the stray animals’ issue and is led by volunteers – Costa Navarino associates, who have dedicated more than 3,500 hours till today. Volunteering work includes veterinary care, training and socialisation of the dogs, assisting with documentation, feeding of the animals, cleaning the shelter and supporting strays that are immobile. It also includes activities to promote pet adoption, visits to the shelter and taking the dogs for a walk.

With the valuable support of Costa Navarino associates and hotel guests, more than 200 dogs and cats have found a permanent home both in Greece and abroad in countries such as Austria, Sweden, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, and the UK.

Moreover, Costa Navarino in collaboration with the Captain Vassilis & Carmen Constantakopoulos Foundation and the Greek non-profit organisation “Dogs’ Voice” have launched a three-year program “Messinia Without Strays” to address the serious issue concerning the protection and management of stray animals in the region of Messinia.

The program has three main pillars including sterilisation, education and volunteering and is supported by local volunteers and sponsors. The program’s core message is “When you adopt a stray you change two lives: theirs and yours”, aiming to raise awareness and encourage stray adoptions nationally and internationally.

Currently 16 dogs of various ages and character traits are hosted at the shelter.

Visit Website: https://www.costanavarino.com/society/navarino-pet-community-2/