Bring the kids and help walk the dogs at ACE

There are approximately 500 dogs living at the ACE-SHIN animal shelter in Mijas, and about 200 cats. 500 dogs is a huge number of animals, all needing the same things, food, water, care, exercise, and more than anything, time and kindness.

The centre is busy, noisy and full of life. The dogs are excited to see people and are desperate for attention. They’re friendly, full of character, and just want someone to stop for a moment. Incredible volunteers are there already, washing, scrubbing, feeding, walking and doing everything they can, but for that volume of dogs more hands are needed. 

ACE-SHIN has been a vital part of the community for decades, growing from a small rescue effort into one of the largest animal shelters in the area. Over the years, it has taken in thousands of abandoned and unwanted animals, earning a reputation for doing everything possible to rehabilitate and rehome them. What began as a handful of determined people trying to help has developed into a major operation, yet it still depends heavily on volunteers and donations to continue its work. Central to that success is Fabienne Paques, who has spent the last 25 years transforming a former municipal killing station into a no-kill sanctuary for abused and neglected animals. Through her tireless dedication with ACE-SHIN, she has helped save thousands of animals providing shelter, medical care, and the chance of loving new homes without government funding.

Taking your children to volunteer dog walking is a great way to get outside and help at the same time

Dog walking is one of the biggest needs. The shelter is right on the beautiful campo and close to the sandy beach, the perfect space to stretch their legs, breathe, and give the dogs a break from their kennels.

Younger visitors get an amazing response from the animals. For kids to come along with an adult to walk a dog can be a lesson in compassion and empathy and a nice reason to be outside in the fresh air. 

Many of the dogs were bought as puppies and later given up. Either too big, too energetic, too much work. Some have been adopted and returned. Others were found alone. It’s because of this that, there’s every kind of dog you can imagine big, small, lively, quiet, confident, unsure. All of them needing a bit of attention. 

Donating, washing, grooming at cleaning are all ways to get involved

Washing and grooming is another way to help. It’s simple, hands-on, and makes a real difference to the dogs’ comfort and chances of being adopted.

The people already volunteering are working constantly to keep things going, but more help is needed. You don’t need to commit to long hours. You can just turn up, take a dog for a walk, and help out where you can. The times for walking are Monday to Friday from 1pm to 4pm, perfect for an after school slot from picking the children up at the end of the day. 

Time outside, away from screens, around animals is good for the littler ones and at ACE you are also doing some good. It doesn’t need to be everyday just when you can. 

If you’ve ever thought about adopting or donating, ACE-SHIN is there to help every step of the way with advice and matching the dogs with the right homes.

More information visit the website or drop in to Ctra. de la Cala a Entrerrios, Las Lagunas and pay a visit, they would be very happy to see you. ACE, what an incredible place.