Animal Care

Sri Lanka faces a significant challenge with an estimated population of over three million stray dogs and cats. In coastal regions like Kalpitiya, these animals often suffer from malnutrition, untreated injuries, and the threat of rabies, which impacts both animal welfare and community health. At Kitesurfing Lanka, we believe that the well-being of our local four-legged residents is an essential part of a healthy ecosystem. By addressing overpopulation through humane methods, we strive to create a safer environment for everyone who enjoys the beauty of the Kalpitiya peninsula.

Our commitment to animal welfare began with Paws for Life, a dedicated CNVR (Catch, Neuter, Vaccinate, Release) program. This initiative was started by Annie, a devoted KSL guest, who was moved by her direct experience caring for street animals in Sri Lanka. Working alongside experienced local caregiver Jocelyn Herath, the program provides vital sterilization, parasite treatment, and rabies vaccinations at a minimal cost. For as little as AUD 25 per animal, this initiative significantly improves health outcomes and reduces the suffering of street dogs and cats within the Kalpitiya community.

The Zoomies Foundation is our latest effort to expand medical support for local animals and is currently in the process of official registration. What started as a heartfelt mission among friends, family, and local hotels has grown into a vital support system to fund essential veterinary services. We partner with volunteer vets to run clinics that provide life-changing care, primarily funded through donations. A single day of CNVR in the Kudawa and Kandakuliya areas costs approximately 300,000 LKR, allowing for the treatment of up to 75 animals. If you would like to contribute or learn more about this project, please message us directly to help us treat more animals in need.

At Kitesurfing Lanka, we believe the wind and waves we enjoy are a gift from a delicate ecosystem. Through our Kommune Kollektive, we are proud to support the local turtle hatchery and conservation efforts in Kudawa. Our mission is to ensure that the shores of Kalpitiya remain a safe haven for the five species of endangered sea turtles, including Green and Olive Ridley turtles, that return to our beaches to nest year after year. We work in close collaboration with the Department of Wildlife Conservation (DWC) to protect these nesting sites, ensuring that future generations of sea turtles can continue their journey from our shores to the ocean safely.