Our story

Jill Robinson and the birth of Animals Asia

In 1985, British-born animal lover Jill Robinson moved to Hong Kong, embarking on what would become a lifelong mission to transform animal welfare across Asia.

Working as a consultant for the International Fund for Animal Welfare, Jill was confronted with harrowing scenes of cruelty – from dogs crammed into cages at meat markets to bears confined in tiny cages for bile extraction. These experiences ignited a profound determination to be a voice for the voiceless.

Pioneering animal-assisted therapy

In 1991, along with her loyal golden retriever, Max, Jill launched Dr Dog, Asia’s first animal-assisted therapy program.

This groundbreaking initiative has brought comfort to hundreds of thousands in hospitals and care homes, showcasing the healing power of the human-animal bond and challenging cultural perceptions of animals.

The moment that changed everything

In 1993, Jill was invited to tour a bear bile farm in southern China. Nothing could have prepared her for what she saw. Row after row of moon bears, trapped in cages barely larger than their bodies – unable to stand, turn or lie comfortably. Their bellies were raw, their eyes dull with pain, and their spirits broken by years of confinement and repeated bile extraction.

And then, from behind the cold metal bars, a paw reached out to Jill – slowly, deliberately. Not in aggression. Not in fear. But in need of connection.

“I sensed a movement, a touch on my shoulder. I turned around and there she was, a bear reaching out through her cage towards me. It was as if she was saying, ‘please help me’. Without thinking, I took her paw and she squeezed my hand.’’ 

In that moment, Jill’s life changed forever. In the silent exchange between species, she saw not just suffering – but hope. A life pleading to be seen, a soul refusing to be forgotten.

Jill named the bear ‘‘Hong’’. Though she never saw Hong again, she ignited a fierce determination in Jill’s heart. She made a promise to Hong that she’d dedicate her life to ending bear bile farming and promoting kindness towards all animals across Asia.

Five years later, in 1998, Animals Asia was born.

The future of animal welfare in Asia

Under Jill’s unwavering leadership, Animals Asia has rescued hundreds of bears, closed down numerous bear farms and worked tirelessly to improve the welfare of cats, dogs and wildlife. Jill’s dedication has earned her global recognition, including an MBE from Queen Elizabeth II for services to animal welfare in Asia.

Described by Jane Goodall as the ‘future of animal welfare in Asia,’ Jill continues to inspire people around the world through her determination, positivity and compassion for animals and people alike.