Who we are
APASA is a non-profit animal welfare organisation based in Jávea, Costa Blanca. Since 1999, we’ve been dedicated to rescuing, caring for, and rehoming abandoned and mistreated dogs in the region.
Our goal is simple: to provide safety, care, and a real second chance to every dog that comes through our gates.
We operate with the help of a committed board of directors, qualified staff, and an incredible community of volunteers.
The Impact of Our Work
See the Lives We’ve Touched
Rescued Over 12,600 Pets since 1999
6,000+ Successful Adoptions
Over 5,700 Lost Dogs Reunited with Their Families
Over 320 dogs adopted in the last 5 years
77% of Our Dogs Find Homes in Spain
Over 20% Adopted Across Europe
Our Story: How we began...
APASA was founded in 1999 by a group of animal lovers from Spain, Germany, England, and Switzerland who all called Jávea home. Moved by the growing number of stray and mistreated dogs in the area, they came together with one shared goal: to give abandoned animals a safe place to heal and feel loved again.
With support from the local town hall, a small piece of land was allocated for the shelter. It began with just 23 dogs and four basic kennel areas, each no larger than 3 by 4 metres. But the heart behind it was anything but small.
As the need grew, so did APASA. Over the years, the shelter expanded to welcome more and more dogs in need. In 2016, we cared for as many as 250 residents. By 2019, that number was 138. Today, we house around 60-80 dogs at a time—allowing us to focus on quality care, not quantity, and to give each dog the time, attention, and dignity they deserve.
What began as a simple act of compassion has grown into a long-standing mission of hope, second chances, and love without conditions.
Meet the Hearts Behind APASA
Our Team
Monika Straetz-Schreier
President
Theresa Döhring-Krebser
Vice President
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Adoption Coordinator
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Mario
Shelter Manager