Introduction
Animals Asia is a prominent animal welfare organization dedicated to ending the cruel practice of bear bile farming and enhancing the lives of animals throughout Asia. Founded in 1998 by British animal activist Jill Robinson, the foundation has grown into a global force for change, focusing on rescue operations, education, and policy advocacy to combat animal cruelty. With sanctuaries in China and Vietnam, Animals Asia has rescued hundreds of bears and other animals, inspiring widespread awareness and reform in the region.
The founder: Jill Robinson
Jill Robinson, MBE, Dr.med.vet. h.c., is widely recognized as the world’s leading expert on the bear bile industry. Born and raised in England with a lifelong passion for animal welfare, she moved to Hong Kong in 1985 and began her journey in animal welfare as a consultant for the International Fund for Animal Welfare. A pivotal moment came in 1993 when Robinson visited a bear bile farm in southern China, witnessing the horrific conditions where Moon Bears (Ursus thibetanus) were confined in tiny cages and subjected to painful bile extraction for traditional medicine. This experience galvanized her to establish Animals Asia five years later.
In 1995, she successfully secured the release of the original bears she had encountered in 1993, marking an early victory in her campaign against bear bile farming. Robinson’s earlier initiatives include founding “Dr Dog” in 1991, Asia’s first animal therapy program, which uses pets to provide comfort in hospitals and schools. Her dedication has earned her numerous accolades, including the 1995 Readers Digest “Hero for Today” award, an MBE from Queen Elizabeth II for services to animal welfare, and an honorary doctorate in veterinary medicine. She is often described as the “future of animal welfare in Asia” by figures like Jane Goodall. Additionally, Robinson serves as a member of the IUCN SSC Bear Specialist Group – Asiatic Black Bear Expert Team and a Council Member of the World Federation of Chinese Medicine Societies Herbal Committee, reflecting her expertise and commitment to promoting herbal alternatives to bear bile.
History and mission
Animals Asia was born out of Robinson’s determination to address the barbaric bear bile trade, which affects thousands of bears across China and Vietnam. The organization’s mission is to end bear bile farming, improve captive animal welfare, and protect Cats (Felis catus) and Dogs (Canis lupus familiaris) through rescue, education, and legal reforms. In 2000, a landmark agreement was signed with the Sichuan Forestry Department and the China Wildlife Conservation Association to release 500 bears from the worst bile farms, marking the first official collaboration between a Chinese government agency and an animal welfare group. This led to the establishment of a bear rescue center in Chengdu, China, and later a similar sanctuary in Vietnam.
Over the years, Animals Asia has expanded its scope to include broader animal welfare issues, such as ending the Dog and Cat meat trade and improving conditions for captive wildlife in zoos and circuses. The foundation operates on principles of compassion, collaboration with governments, and community education to foster long-term change.
Key programs and achievements
Animals Asia’s flagship program targets the end of bear bile farming in Vietnam through rescues, public awareness campaigns, and partnerships with local authorities. To date, the organization has rescued over 700 bears, providing them with veterinary care, enrichment, and spacious enclosures in sanctuaries where they can exhibit natural behaviors. Beyond bears, Animals Asia has helped care for 14 rescued Asian Elephants (Elephas maximus) (primarily from elephant-riding tourism in Vietnam, many now living in Yok Don National Park under ethical tourism programs) and supported over 100,000 Cats and Dogs through spay/neuter programs and anti-trafficking efforts.
Other initiatives include captive animal welfare improvements, such as advocating for better zoo standards and ending exploitative performances. The foundation’s impact is evident in policy wins, like Vietnam’s commitment to phase out bear bile farming, and in educating millions about humane alternatives to traditional practices.
Recent activities and impact
As of early 2026, Animals Asia continues its vital work. In January 2026, CEO Jill Robinson published a blog emphasizing the need to turn 2026 agreements into action for Vietnam’s remaining bile bears. Celebrities like Ricky Gervais have supported the cause, with endorsements from ambassadors such as Peter Egan and Lesley Nicol amplifying awareness on platforms like X.
Conclusion
Animals Asia stands as a beacon of hope for animals suffering from exploitation in Asia. Under Jill Robinson’s leadership, the organization has transformed lives, closed farms, and shifted cultural attitudes toward animal welfare. With ongoing rescues and advocacy, Animals Asia is poised to achieve even greater milestones, ensuring a kinder future for animals and people alike. For more information or to support their work, visit their official website.
Animals Asia official website:
https://www.animalsasia.org/
