While browsing through the many things to do in Holbox, few experiences are as heartwarming and impactful as spending time at Refugio Animal Holbox. More than just an activity, visiting this shelter lets you make a tangible difference in the lives of rescued animals. Thanks to the tireless dedication of the shelter’s team, Isla Holbox is now free of street dogs, a rare achievement that speaks volumes about their mission and commitment. Whether you’re walking a dog along the beach or cuddling a kitten, your visit helps extend their incredible impact even further.

Activities at Refugio Animal Holbox

Dog Walking Along the Beach

Begin your day with a heartwarming walk alongside one of Refugio Animal Holbox grateful rescue dogs. Whether it’s along sandy paths or the island’s breathtaking coastline, it’s a powerful way to connect with the animals and raise awareness. As you walk, many people will naturally ask about the dogs, giving you a chance to introduce them to Refugio Animal Holbox, encourage them to visit, and maybe even spark a new adoption story.

Hey! If you’re visiting from Canada, you should know that Pina Perro Dog Rescue in Canada is helping bring dogs from Refugio Animal Holbox to new homes across the country. So if you fall in love with one of these pups, adoption is not just possible—it’s happening!

Walk Times Based on Season & Weather:

• November to March: Walks are encouraged from 7:30 AM to 10:00 AM and again from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM.
• April to September: Walk earlier in the day from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM, with evening walks from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM.

These times are designed to keep the animals safe from heat exposure. However, if you’re visiting outside these hours, you’re still welcome to come by. There’s always someone at Refugio Animal Holbox ready to show you around, share their inspiring story, and let you spend quality time with the animals, relaxing in the shade on sunnier days.

And here’s something magical you won’t want to miss, watching the sunset in Holbox with one of the rescued dogs by your side. As the sky turns golden over the beach, you’ll share a quiet, beautiful moment with a pup who’s just happy to walk beside you. It’s not just a photo opportunity, it’s a memory you’ll never forget.

Visiting Refugio Animal Holbox

Refugio Animal Holbox is more than a place, it’s an experience filled with purpose and heart. You don’t need an appointment to visit. Just drop by and let the team know how you’d like to help.

The refugio is located near the small Holbox airport on Calle Tintorera, making it easy to access whether you’re walking or biking. It’s open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and the team is always happy to welcome new faces, whether you’re there to walk a dog, donate supplies, or simply spend time with the animals in the shaded outdoor areas.

You’ll also get a chance to learn about the refugio’s history, hear touching stories about the rescues, and understand how your involvement directly supports their mission. Every moment you spend here helps build a better future for animals on the island and beyond.

Do I need to pay to walk dogs?

No, all activities at Refugio Animal Holbox are completely free. Whether you walk a dog, help with daily care, or simply spend time giving love to the animals, your presence alone makes a difference.

However, the refugio survives thanks to donations from kind-hearted people around the world. Holbox is an international destination, and this global community of visitors is what keeps the mission alive. Every donation, no matter how small helps ensure Refugio Animal Holbox can continue rescuing, caring for, and rehoming animals in need. Your support directly fuels their ability to save more lives.

What is a Flight Angel and why is it important to Refugio Animal Holbox?

A Flight Angel is someone flying from Cancun to the USA, Europe, or Canada who volunteers to accompany an already adopted rescue dog on their journey to their new home. It’s a simple way to make a life changing impact without any cost or hassle.

You don’t have to pay anything. You don’t even need to bring the dog with you from Holbox. A dedicated team member from the refugio, often Jorgue, will meet you directly at Cancun Airport with the dog, handle all documentation, and walk you through the process. Once you land at your destination, someone will be there waiting to receive the dog.

You won’t be left with a dog at home unexpectedly, everything is organized so you can enjoy your flight knowing you helped change a life. So please, if you’re flying from Cancun to the USA, Canada, or Europe, get in touch with us! Becoming a Flight Angel is easy, impactful, and unforgettable.

The Story Behind Refugio Animal Holbox

The soul of Refugio Animal Holbox was born through the compassion and vision of Morelia Montes, whose selfless journey began with the rescue of a baby raccoon named Venancio. That single act of kindness sparked the creation of what would become one of the most impactful animal rescue operations in the region.

Thanks to her tireless work, Isla Holbox became free of street dogs, a rare and monumental achievement. Her efforts didn’t stop there, she extended her mission to the mainland, opening another shelter to respond to the overwhelming need for animal rescue in nearby communities. Under her leadership, the shelter now plays a key role in not just rescue, but rehabilitation, education, and international adoption.

Today, the daily operations and care of the animals at Refugio Animal Holbox are led by Tamara, a devoted animal lover who continues Morelia legacy with heart and dedication. Tamara not only ensures the well-being of every dog and cat under her care but also warmly welcomes visitors, volunteers, and fly angels helping keep the Refugio doors open and mission thriving.

Refugio Animal Holbox have cultivated a community of compassion that touches lives, animal and human on Holbox and beyond.