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Join Our Team

Help us give rescued animals not just safety, but a life worth living. If you believe in steady, hands‑on care and small wins that add up, you’ll fit right in.

Portuguese versions of each role are linked — apply in whichever language you prefer.

Current Openings

Animal Carer (Full‑Time – 40h/week)

Location: Close to Messiness, Algarve, Portugal
Start: ASAP
Contract: Full‑time
Language: English useful, not essential — kindness is.
PT version: Cuidadores de Animais — Tempo Inteiro

What you’ll do

  • Care for dogs, gentle horses, pigs, sheep, goats, and one charming donkey
  • Feed, refresh water, and keep living spaces clean
  • Monitor health, follow routines, and record observations
  • Give enrichment, socialisation, and calm, consistent handling
  • Keep spaces safe, tidy, and welcoming

You’re a match if you

  • Love animals and know routine equals wellbeing
  • Are dependable, organised, and calm under pressure
  • Don’t shy away from cleaning, mud, and summer heat
  • Have your own transport to reach the sanctuary

We offer

  • Work that directly improves animals’ daily lives
  • A chance to learn hands-on animal care and sanctuary work
  • A welcoming, mission‑driven team and plenty of animal company
  • A role where your effort has visible, daily impact

How to Apply:

Maintenance — Handyperson with Animal Care Skills (Part‑Time)

Location: Close to Messiness, Algarve, Portugal
Start: ASAP
Contract: Part‑time, flexible hours
Language: English useful, not essential
PT version: Manutenção — Tempo Parcial

What you’ll do

  • Carry out repairs and upkeep for enclosures and buildings
  • Handle basic plumbing, electrical, and carpentry tasks
  • Maintain fences, equipment, and grounds
  • Help with animal care during holidays or busy times — feeding, fresh water, cleaning, health checks, and friendly socialising

You’re a match if you

  • Are practical, resourceful, and confident with tools
  • Like fixing things and keeping spaces safe
  • Can jump in with animal care when needed
  • Have your own transport to reach the sanctuary

We offer

  • Flexible, varied role
  • The chance to make a visible difference every shift
  • Support from a small, dedicated team who value your skills
  • An environment where no two days are exactly the same

How to Apply

Why Work at Wigglestail

  • Work with purpose – Your day-to-day directly changes the lives of animals who had no safety net. You see the impact of your work immediately.
  • A team that’s got your back – Small, tight-knit, no politics. You’re supported, trusted, and valued.
  • Calm, consistent culture – We don’t run on chaos. We do steady, thoughtful care — for animals and for the people who work here.
  • Growth you can see – From hands-on animal care to project ownership, you’ll build skills, take responsibility, and shape the sanctuary’s future.
  • No meaningless busywork – Everything you do matters. You go home knowing your effort counted.

Not a fit for these roles?