About us
Animal Army is a veterinary hospital and animal welfare organization dedicated to improving the lives of vulnerable animals in the Chonburi region of Thailand. Our work combines professional veterinary medicine, emergency rescue, sterilization programs, and long-term rehabilitation to address both the immediate and root causes of animal suffering.
Our origins date back to 1994, when the clinic first opened as Pattaya Animal Hospital, a small veterinary practice serving local pets and community animals. Founded and operated by husband-and-wife veterinarians Jaroensi Chaiplum and Kwanchai Chaiplum, the clinic built a strong reputation for accessible, compassionate medical care and deep community trust.
In 2020, the practice expanded its mission when the Chaiplums partnered with Nicole Merchant to co-found Animal Army Foundation. This marked a transformation from a traditional clinic into a comprehensive animal welfare organization with an integrated rescue and prevention model.
Since that transition, Animal Army has:
- Helped thousands of animals through rescue, medical treatment, and rehabilitation
- Developed a structured volunteer program that supports daily operations and outreach
- Expanded surgical and emergency capabilities to meet growing regional needs
- Implemented high-volume sterilization and CNVR initiatives to address stray populations
- Established long-term care programs for animals with permanent disabilities
Today, Animal Army operates at the intersection of clinical expertise and community impact. Our team includes experienced veterinarians, trained rescue personnel, and dedicated volunteers working together to deliver measurable outcomes in animal welfare. We focus on scalable, humane solutions that reduce suffering, improve public health, and strengthen community responsibility toward animals.
Support from donors and grant partners directly enables lifesaving medical care, rescue operations, sterilization programs, and education initiatives. Every investment in Animal Army contributes to sustainable, long-term improvements in animal welfare across the Chonburi region.
Through partnership and support, we are building a stronger system of care for animals who would otherwise have none.
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Dr. Kwanchai Chaiplum
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Nicole Merchant