Our Story
Vietnam Animal Aid is a registered US 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization operating a microsanctuary-style animal rescue shelter and farm sanctuary in Hoi An, central Vietnam. We focus on anti-speciesist animal rights for cats, dogs, chickens, ducks, and other species needing lifelong care. Currently, we house around 35 animals across three species.
How We Started
In 2013, co-founder Catherine Besch started what was initially known as Vietnam Animal Welfare Organization. Vietnam Animal Aid and Rescue – US (VAAR) was born when the original group split. Over time, we evolved from an animal welfare group to an animal rights organization, championing long-term solutions that end suffering for all species.
- 2013: Opened the first rescue shelter in central Vietnam.
- Soon After: Launched Vietnam’s first nonprofit veterinary clinic.
- Farm Sanctuary: Became the country’s first sanctuary for farmed animals.
- Wildlife Rescue: Collaborated with the Vietnamese government to care for trafficked wildlife near Hue
While we no longer have the clinic, we can access international-standard vet care in Da Nang for our rescues. We are working to fund and develop the Phong Dien Wildlife Rescue Center, which will house central Vietnam’s only wildlife hospital.
Our Mission
We exist to end the suffering of all species in Vietnam. We do this through:
- Mass sterilization and vaccination to prevent the overpopulation that fuels neglect and the dog/cat meat trade.
- Rescue and Sanctuary- Ensuring animals have a safe, loving, and healthy long life either at our rescue or wildlife center or adopted to their own families
- Improving veterinary care so animals of every species can receive international-standard lifesaving treatment.
- Vegan advocacy and the abolition of all animal use, insisting that “loving animals means living vegan.”
As the only organization in Vietnam explicitly promoting a fully vegan lifestyle and zero animal exploitation, we stand firm in our principles. Non-speciesist messaging is vital to the future of animal rights.
How You Can Help
As a US 501(c)(3) nonprofit, your donations are tax-deductible and directly fuel our anti-speciesist mission. Your support helps us:
- Provide lifelong sanctuary for the animals in our care and seek adoptions in Vietnam and abroad.
- Advocate for a fully vegan lifestyle that ends the exploitation of all species.
- Care for wildlife rescued from the illegal wildlife trade.
Join us in creating a kinder future for animals and people. We cannot continue without your help, and we are endlessly grateful to every donor, supporter, and friend who supports our vital mission in Vietnam.
