A Heartfelt Visit to the Shelter Where Cody Found Me

Recently, I revisited an animal shelter near Valencia, Spain—a place that holds a special place in my heart. This is not just any shelter; it’s where my beloved Cody began his journey. Though Cody was still very young when he came into my life, this shelter shaped his early days, and returning here brought back many emotions—gratitude for finding Cody and heartbreak for the dogs who are still waiting for their forever homes.

The Reality of Animal Shelters in Spain

Animal shelters in Spain face significant challenges. Most are privately run by dedicated animal welfare associations with little to no government support. They rely on volunteers who invest their free time in managing the shelter, feeding the dogs, cleaning their kennels, and handling endless administrative tasks.

Even the employed staff go far beyond their official duties, responding to emergencies, transporting injured animals to veterinarians, and braving bad weather to ensure the dogs are safe. These are people who give everything they have, often for very little pay, driven solely by their passion for animal welfare.

The priority in these shelters is clear: first, ensure the dogs have food, clean spaces, and medical care. Anything beyond that—training, enrichment, or rehabilitation—is a luxury that happens only when there’s time and resources to spare.

Heartbreaking Familiar Faces

My first visit to this shelter was five years ago, and while it was heartwarming to see the love and care the shelter provides, it was also deeply saddening to recognize some familiar faces. There are dogs who have been here since that first visit, still waiting for their chance at a home.

These dogs, who have spent the majority of their lives behind shelter gates, touched me deeply. Despite their resilience and the remarkable care they receive, it’s hard not to feel sorrow for their lost time. Seeing them still waiting, year after year, is a stark reminder of how many incredible dogs are overlooked simply because they didn’t catch the eye of an adopter.

A System That Works Against the Odds

Despite the challenges, the shelter continues to provide a safe and enriching environment for the dogs. Every morning, they roam freely in large groups, helping them build natural social skills. Young dogs play together, while older ones soak up the sun or act as mediators in minor conflicts.

In the afternoons, the dogs return to shared kennels, usually with one or two companions. Free feeding with large bowls of food has been implemented here, drastically reducing resource guarding and fostering cooperative behavior among the dogs.

A highlight for many of the dogs is the weekly walk with volunteers every Saturday. For some, it’s their only chance to explore the world outside the shelter. These walks are critical in helping the dogs build confidence and experience life beyond the shelter’s walls.

The Journey from Fear to Trust

One of the most rewarding parts of my visit was witnessing the progress of some of the more timid dogs. Seeing a fearful dog tentatively approach for affection or join the group is a testament to the patience and dedication of the shelter team.

Cody came to me as a very young dog, and he didn’t carry the scars of a long shelter stay. But I think often about how his life might have been different if he hadn’t been given the chance to leave when he did. That thought makes me even more determined to support the dogs who are still waiting for their moment to shine.

Why These Shelters Need Our Support

Returning to this shelter reminded me of the extraordinary work these organizations do and how desperately they need our help. They are fighting an uphill battle every day, yet they never give up on their mission to provide a safe haven for these animals.

This shelter gave me Cody, a companion who has brought endless joy into my life. For the dogs still waiting, I hold onto the hope that they, too, will find a home and a family of their own. If you’re ever considering adopting, volunteering, or supporting a shelter, please do. Every small effort can make a huge difference, not just for the dogs but also for the people who love and care for them.

Let’s give these incredible animals the second chance they so deeply deserve.

If you’re moved by these stories and want to help, you can make a donation or even consider adopting a dog.

Here you find more Information about, how to help