Germany

Germany has one of Europe's most established animal welfare networks, built around the Tierheim — the local animal shelter, usually run by a registered Tierschutzverein (animal protection association) recognised as charitable (gemeinnützig). Many Tierheime have contracts with their local authority to take in stray, lost and seized animals, and they rehome dogs, cats, small animals and birds through adoption appointments. Most welcome volunteers and depend heavily on donations and memberships. Every German organisation listed on Real Rescues has been checked against its official website and its association registration, so you can donate, adopt or volunteer with confidence.