Every day, thousands of people reach Greek shores seeking asylum from conflict, persecution and instability. These refugees from Syria, South Sudan, Yemen, Afghanistan, Iraq, Iran and other conflict-affected regions often live for extended periods in 30 mainland temporary reception facilities for asylum seekers, more commonly known as refugee camps.
In the midst of these uncertain conditions are the animals. Inevitably drawn to the camps by food availability and human interaction, free-roaming cats and dogs are an intrinsic part of the landscape. For many refugees, particularly children, these animals provide companionship, comfort and a sense of normalcy in an otherwise difficult environment.
But the presence of this comfort is not without its costs. Unmanaged animal populations due to the absence of veterinary services increase risks for animals and people alike. Sterilization, vaccination and other medical care are crucial to reduce suffering for the dogs and cats in the camps, and are also crucial to mitigate health and safety concerns for people, like disease transmission through bites and unsafe interactions.
That’s where Greater Good Charities comes in. This January, our international team of veterinarians, trappers, educators and volunteers returned to Greece for a second round of free spay/neuter clinics as part of our ongoing mission to provide high-impact support in communities too often overlooked.
Last April, Greater Good Charities headed to Greece and joined forces with local organizations and government ministries to perform the first round of spay/neuter clinics.
Across three camps, we provided sterilization surgeries, vaccinations, microchipping, tick and flea treatment and additional care for over 340 animals with one central goal in mind: to improve animal welfare, public health and community safety through a coordinated package of veterinary services and education.
This education was extended to young learners, fostering a culture of compassion and responsibility toward animals. We provided engagement, educational sessions, pollinator garden planting and other fun activities for kids, while also donating school supplies, art kits, sports equipment and plush animals for their enrichment.
Through this integrated, compassionate approach, we proved that when communities are empowered with tools and a voice in the process, real change takes root.
Returning this year, our teams saw those roots beginning to sprout. Our strategy was the same, but our geographic reach and impact were greater, as we covered four camps instead of three. Bolstered by an incredible team of 32 Greek and international volunteers, Greater Good Charities’ Veterinary Services team got to work.
Among the animals who received this care were Lucy and Box. These two dogs were taken in by Mohammed and his family, who have been in the camp for three years after fleeing Lebanon.
They arrived with only what they could carry, but their compassion was unlimited. The family took responsibility for these dogs, growing to love them and developing a sense of routine around their care. But they were forced to keep Lucy and Box restrained separately, knowing that if they roamed freely together, Lucy would likely get pregnant and the family couldn’t care for a litter of puppies.
Our team approached Mohammed and offered to sterilize, vaccinate and treat Lucy and Box at no cost to him. He agreed immediately, and the next day the pair were returned, healthy and recovering well. As we were preparing to leave, Mohammed approached our team holding Lucy’s and Box’s chains as they walked freely beside him, and we were honored to witness his joy at having one more burden eased for his family.
The animals in these camps may be considered “unowned” on paper, but in reality, they’re loved deeply. They’re family. The residents want the best for them, even when they themselves have little.
While the veterinarians were hard at work, staff and volunteers were busy with a different but equally important piece of the puzzle. They focused on engaging kindergarten and elementary school children with fun and educational animal welfare sessions, promoting safe and responsible interactions between people and animals. Footballs, basketballs, volleyballs, hula-hoops and bouncy balls filled the space, turning a difficult environment into one filled with laughter and play.
Nearly 170 refugee children participated in our structured interactive activities directly, and their irresistible urge to share new things will ensure that many more benefit!
During these activities, one young man named Samon joined our team to assist where he could. He helped with the younger children and asked questions, eager to contribute. A 19-year-old from South Sudan, Samon shared pieces of his story—the weight of the journey he endured, his longing for his family and the loneliness of camp life.
Samon thanked us sincerely for caring for the animals, whom he loves. When he mentioned in passing his love of basketball, we didn’t hesitate. Our team made sure Samon had a basketball of his own, as a thank you for the reminder that sometimes, the most powerful impact doesn’t come from grand gestures, but from simply listening. One conversation. One moment of connection. One small act of kindness can change everything.
The impacts of this second round of clinics will extend far beyond the individual animals spayed or children taught. This work has the power to improve the quality of life for thousands of people and animals for years into the future. By reducing uncontrolled breeding, disease and suffering among free-roaming cats and dogs, we improve animal welfare and public safety. Through this improved public safety combined with increased awareness and safer behavior among camp residents, we make a lasting positive psychosocial impact.
And that is possibly the most important impact we can have for our friends and neighbors in need. Thousands of people stream through these camps, all having endured extreme hardship. Unfortunately, those hardships rarely end once they reach Greek soil. Refugee camps are just that: camps, temporary shelters lacking in comfort where critical decisions for the future must be made.
As long as Greater Good Charities can reduce discomfort and increase healthy conditions, providing tangible support so camp residents can focus on moving forward, we will. We are. And you are, through your generosity.
Together, we’re showing up to fill the gaps for refugees in Greece, and the work isn't finished—we’ll be returning for a third round of clinics later this spring. Thank you for helping us improve lives, forge trust across communities and ultimately, amplify the good!