When we visited Abrigo da Fundoa, part of the Funchal Municipal Kennel, we honestly did not know what to expect.
For many locals in Madeira, the word “Fundoa” is associated with the island’s waste management area, so we imagined difficult surroundings and harsh conditions. Instead, we found something completely different.
The shelter was clean, organised, calm, and clearly run with care. The kennels are spacious, the dogs are safely walked while cleaning takes place, and even behavioural rehabilitation is part of the daily routine, helping traumatised dogs slowly regain trust and socialisation.
Around 40 dogs currently live there, alongside cats that roam freely around the property. Despite limited resources, small thoughtful details throughout the shelter showed how much dedication goes into making the animals feel safe and comfortable.
What surprised us most was learning that much of this work is carried out by one person: Fátima Sousa.
The moment you speak to her, you immediately feel the passion she has for the animals. She previously worked as a veterinary auxiliary but chose to focus more directly on helping dogs on a one-to-one basis.
When asked about the biggest challenge, her answer was simple: more volunteers and basic infrastructure. The shelter still does not have electricity, meaning even simple things like washing dogs with warm water, proper grooming, or making a coffee during long working days are not possible.
Dogs are regularly transferred between Abrigo da Fundoa and the Funchal Kennel when needed, and Fátima proudly shared stories of successful adoptions, including one dog recently adopted in Germany.
As the director Ricardo mentioned
“They are very well cared for and they lack nothing except a family — but they have us every single day.”
At Madeira Friends, we believe stories like this deserve visibility. Animal rescue is not only about facilitie, it is about people who continue showing up every single day with patience, compassion, and care.
Thank you to the teams at Abrigo da Fundoa and the Funchal Kennel for the important work you do for Madeira’s animals.