ASAAST, the Association of Friends of Animals of Santo Tirso, is a non-profit animal welfare organisation based in Santo Tirso, Porto, Portugal. Run by volunteers, it is dedicated to protecting animals and promoting responsible adoption for abandoned and neglected dogs and cats. The association provides a refuge for animals awaiting homes and introduces prospective adopters to dogs in its care.

Its work also depends on community participation, with several ways to help: adopting an animal, sponsoring food, vaccinations or veterinary care, providing temporary foster care, volunteering at the shelter or supporting collection campaigns. Supporters can also donate, become members or contribute through the association’s solidarity shop, which offers items such as bracelets and bandanas for pets. ASAAST shares news from the shelter, adoption stories and animal-care information, including guidance on microchipping, vaccination, identification medals, sterilisation and castration.

Through its adoption and support programmes, the organisation invites people to help improve the welfare of animals in its care and build lasting connections between pets and families