Live PAWS Tenerife
Live PAWS is a passionate non-profit animal rescue based in the south of Tenerife. Every dog who comes through our gates gets the same promise: a safe, loving home, and a real shot at the life they deserve.
Our history
In December 2025, we proudly took over the care of Esperanza del Sur Refuge. Thanks to the incredible generosity of our supporters, we were also able to purchase the land at both of our refuges, securing a safe and permanent future for the animals in our care.
Today, under the leadership of our President, Mark, we care for more than 140 dogs, providing them with nutritious food, safe shelter, love, and essential veterinary care. This includes sterilisation, microchipping, vaccinations, and any medical treatment they need to live happy, healthy lives.
Beyond the refuges, we also fund 68 dogs currently living in foster homes - and altogether, more than 2,250 dogs have been rescued, fostered, or found a home through Live PAWS over the years.
Our work extends beyond our refuges
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Local cat colonies
We support local cat colonies by providing food and organising neutering programmes to improve their welfare and help reduce the number of unwanted kittens.
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Homeless people with pets
We also assist homeless people with pets, helping to provide food, veterinary care, and support so they can stay together.
Come across a stray dog while you're out and about? Let us know using our Report a Stray Dog form so we can act quickly.
The Live PAWS Finca
At the Live PAWS Finca, we provide a safe and peaceful sanctuary for elderly dogs, disabled animals, and those with terminal illnesses.
Here, they receive specialist veterinary care, comfort, and endless love, allowing them to live out their lives with dignity, compassion, and the highest quality of care possible.
They need you
We receive no government funding and rely entirely on donations, fundraising events, sponsorships, and the kindness of our supporters - from individual sponsors to the local businesses who champion our cause. Every contribution, no matter the size, helps us continue rescuing, rehabilitating, and caring for animals in need.
What we're working towards
Live PAWS is dedicated to improving the lives of dogs in our community. We take pride in the work we do, striving to keep homeless dogs safe, happy and sheltered.
- Provide temporary shelter to stray, abandoned, and surrendered dogs for the purpose of finding permanent, suitable new homes
- Support a healthy pet community and responsible dog ownership
- Work with like-minded organisations at home and abroad to promote animal welfare and raise sufficient funds to facilitate this
The core of Live PAWS
Kennel staff
Every day our team comes to care for our dogs' needs. From cleaning their kennels, to feeding, and adding the daily dose of love and attention. We are grateful to have a team that loves animals and is committed to them, even on their days off!
Respect, dedication and love for animals are the keywords for this job, and our team are very committed to this. You can come to the shelter and be part of this great group, you will be very well received.
Volunteers
None of this would be possible without your help. Volunteering and supporting us is what keeps us going. We thank you all for your gift of time, helping in the shelter. Our dogs and team greatly appreciate your kindness.
Volunteering is the voice of the people in action, and your voice is important and needed by our furry friends. If you are new and want to join the family you can take a look here or contact us.
Help us to help them
Thank you for supporting our mission and helping us give abandoned, neglected, and vulnerable animals the care, safety, and second chance they deserve.
All the ways to get involved
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