A Sanctuary for Dogs and Humans
For thousands of years, dogs have been companions to humans, known for their loyalty. Science suggests that the most empathetic wolves evolved into domesticated dogs, passing on their unique openess to cooperation. This ancient bond is rooted in a deep connection, often described as „Urvertrauen“ in German—primal, deep trust.
At our sanctuary, many dogs have been mistreated, malnourished, neglected, hurt, harmed, abandoned, starved, kept on chains. They often have completely lost trust in humans.
Yet, when they come to us, they find a safe space, an idyllic sanctuary where people dedicate themselves to care and healing.
We are teaching dogs that humans can be trustworthy, kind and caring. With our compassion, we guide them on their healing journey. Dogs learn to co-regulate their nervous system, resdicovering connection and companionship.
Providing the dogs with a reliable and calm routine and gentle training, we help them build an emotional connection with confidence. With time, and lots of cuddles, they become healthier, happier, and ready to be embraced into new, loving homes.
At the waterlily pond in Tamera, we are inviting the dogs for a swim.
Tamera’s Dog History
In Portugal, dogs traditionally served as herders and protectors. However, with the decline of shepherding, many dogs are now chained, exposed to cold and rain, and without adequate food and water.
In 2002, inspired animal activists from Tamera, a Peace Research and Education Center in Alentejo, Portugal, began addressing this issue by providing chained dogs with water and food. However this reinforced the system, as farmers became dependent on these efforts. This motivated the activists from Tamera to create another, more sustainable solution.
In 2012, inspired by Canopolis near Barcelona, they constructed a dog sanctuary, a safe haven where dogs can live freely and experience the joy of connection and companionship. It was later called Terra Canis, meaning „the land of the dog“. The sanctuary is about 1 hectar and includes a sunny hill, a lush valley of beautiful old trees and plenty of space for the dogs to explore, play, and rest. Daily care includes nutritious meals, medical attention and, most importantly, socialization and pack walks.
In 2025, Barbara „Bori“ Kovats, an elder from the Tamera Community has taken on the responsibility for the sanctuary. Barbara has the full support of the Terra Canis Team of currently ten volunteers involved in the sanctuary, who passionately care for the dogs.
With Gratitude all the Best for the Future
From 2019 to 2025, Blanche van der Heijden (Blanca) was active in our sanctuary. Starting as a helper, she became a cornerstone of our dog care efforts, leading the team since 2021 with dedication and commitment. In May 2025 Blanca resigned from her responsibilities.
We wish her all the best for her future.
Enjoying our walk in the olive grove or letting the dogs take a bath. The pack walk is one of our amazing daily activities.
The Terra Canis Team
During the guest season, from April to November, guests of the Tamera community project can become volunteers at the Tamera Dog Sanctuary. All year round, we are supported by members of the Tamera community and enthusiastic people living locally. We warmly welcome new volunteers living in our neighbourhood. It’s a great opportunity for people who enjoy walking dogs, meaningful interactions and community.
“Dogs are our link to paradise. They don’t know evil or jealousy or discontent. To sit with a dog on a hillside on a glorious afternoon is to be back in Eden, where doing nothing was not boring—it was peace.”
Milan Kundera
Terra Canis is where Dogs and Humans Heal, Grow, and Thrive.
Connection is the Foundation of Peace.