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.
Lead Veterinarian & Co-Founder
Dr. Kwanchai Chaiplum, DVM
Kwanchai Chaiplum earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from Mahanakorn University of Technology in 2010. Originally from Khon Kaen, he relocated to Chonburi in 1994, where he helped establish the clinic that would later grow into Animal Army.
Dr. Kwanchai brings extensive experience in surgery and emergency veterinary medicine and plays a key role in advancing the hospital’s medical capabilities. He is recognized for his steady leadership and ongoing commitment to improving animal welfare in the community.
Lead Veterinarian & Co-Founder
Dr. Jaroensi Chaiplum, DVM
Jaroensi Chaiplum received her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from Khon Kaen University in 1994. She grew up in Nakhon Ratchasima and has dedicated her career to hands-on clinical care and surgery in the Chonburi region.
As a lead veterinarian and co-founder, Dr. Jaroensi focuses primarily on patient treatment, surgical care, and maintaining high standards of medical practice. She is known for her compassionate, practical approach to veterinary medicine. Together, Dr. Kwanchai and Dr. Jaroensi are proud parents of one son.
Veterinary Assistant & Operations Support
Tam
Tam has been an integral member of the Animal Army team for over 10 years. Originally from Hua Hin, he contributes a rare combination of clinical assistance and practical facility expertise.
He supports surgical preparation, daily animal care, and the continued development of hospital infrastructure through his construction and
maintenance skills. Known for his reliability and compassion, Tam is deeply passionate about helping animals and plays a vital role in the smooth operation and growth of the organization.
Nicole Merchant
Joy
Joy has been a dedicated member of Animal Army for over three years. Based in Thailand, she ensures our clinic and recovery areas remain clean, organized, and safe for every rescued animal. From maintaining sanitary treatment spaces to managing all laundry and bedding, her attention to detail plays a vital role in protecting the health and comfort of animals in our care. Joy’s consistency and commitment help create the stable environment every rescue needs to heal.