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About the shelter

Dzīvnieku Draugs is a private animal shelter located in Riga, Latvia. It is one of the country’s oldest and most respected animal welfare institutions, with a mission to rescue, care for, and rehome stray and abandoned animals.
 The shelter’s story began on October 8, 1996, with the founding of the Dzīvnieku Drauga Fonds (Friend of Animals Foundation). The vision to establish a dedicated animal care center in Latvia was initiated by Kristīne Čilvere, a Latvian woman living in the United Kingdom. In the 1990s, she donated a parcel of land she owned in Riga, and left a portion of her estate to fund the creation of a modern animal shelter.
 Thanks to her initiative, the Dzīvnieku Draugs shelter officially opened its doors in 2001. At that time, Latvia had no formal regulations for shelter design, so the facility was built according to international standards—making it the first and only one of its kind in the country at that time. Today, its facilities include dedicated animal housing, a veterinary clinic (Dzīvnieku Veselības Centrs – Animal Health Center), and training rooms for educational events and volunteers.
 The shelter is currently led by Solvita Vība, who has been at the forefront of its mission for many years. Under her guidance, the organization continues to uphold high standards of care and deepen its engagement with the community.
 Dzīvnieku Draugs houses an average of 50 cats daily. The animals live in clean, safe, and comfortable conditions with warm bedding, fresh water, and quality food—much of which is donated by generous individuals and organizations. Hygiene is strictly maintained by shelter staff and volunteers, who clean enclosures, provide medical supervision, and offer warmth and comfort during the colder months. All animals receive veterinary checkups, vaccinations, deworming, and medical treatment when needed, thanks to the fully equipped in-house clinic.

 All cats rescued by Dzīvnieku Draugs are given the opportunity to be adopted into loving homes. After receiving medical treatment, care, and socialization at the shelter, each animal is gradually prepared for adoption. The team makes every effort to match every pet with a suitable and responsible family. Those interested in adoption are encouraged to contact the shelter directly for more information or to arrange a visit. Dzīvnieku Draugs is always open to helping kind-hearted people find a new companion and give a rescued animal a second chance at life.

 The shelter receives no government or municipal funding and relies entirely on donations from private individuals and corporate sponsors. National and international donors have helped sustain long-term programs, including a Trap–Neuter–Return (TNR) initiative for stray cat colonies. The success of this program is evident: in one spring season, not a single kitten was admitted, marking a major achievement in population control.

 Dzīvnieku Draugs actively encourages public involvement. Volunteers play a crucial role in the daily care and socialization of animals, and anyone with time and compassion is welcome to help. Material donations such as pet food, bowls, collars, leashes, toys, and bedding are always appreciated. Financial donations can be made via bank transfer or through the donation section on the shelter’s official website.
 With its long-standing history, compassionate care standards, and community-driven approach, Dzīvnieku Draugs remains a leading force for animal welfare in Latvia, continuing the legacy of its founder and the dedication of its current leadership.