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About the shelter

Lesė Animal Rescue Organization (Gyvūnų globos organizacija "Lesė") is a volunteer-based animal shelter in Vilnius, Lithuania, founded in 2007 by Vesta Auskalniene. What began as an initiative to help stray and mistreated animals has grown into one of the country's great non-profit animal protection organisations.

 The organisation currently runs two main shelters, one in Vilnius and one in Kaunas, and coordinates a network of foster homes and volunteers across Lithuania. Lesė provides temporary shelter and full veterinary care to cats and dogs that have been rescued from neglect, abandonment or abuse. On average, the organisation cares for over 150 animals at any one time, ensuring they receive medical treatment, socialisation and preparation for adoption.

 In addition to rescue and rehoming, Lesė actively promotes humane animal population control. Through its 'Catch–Spay–Return' programme, the organisation sterilises stray cats and dogs in order to reduce overpopulation in a humane way. Lesė also runs educational initiatives, including school visits, awareness campaigns and public outreach at local events, all of which are aimed at fostering a more compassionate and informed attitude towards animal welfare.

 Lesė is proud to be the first animal welfare organisation in Lithuania to be accredited to host international volunteers through the European Solidarity Corps (ESC). In partnership with Socialinis Veiksmas, Lesė welcomes long-term volunteers from abroad every year, who stay for 10–12 months. These volunteers assist with dog and cat care, support public events and forge cross-cultural friendships through shared experiences and storytelling. This programme strengthens Lesė's mission and fosters solidarity, understanding and human connection across borders.

 Lesė relies entirely on donations and receives no regular state funding. Its activities are made possible thanks to individual donors, corporate sponsors and donations through the Lithuanian tax system (1.2% of income tax).

 Lesė's mission is firmly grounded in community engagement, encouraging people to adopt a pet, volunteer with animals or simply raise awareness of responsible pet ownership. Every life saved and every home found is the result of a collective effort, and the Lesė community grows stronger every year. If you believe in meaningful animal rescue, Lesė is a shelter worth watching, supporting and standing with.