Thirty-six years ago, our founder, Helen Sinclair MBE, sat at her kitchen table determined to help animals in need. What began as one woman’s resolve to make a difference has grown into Friends of the Animals — a vibrant, volunteer-powered organisation that has transformed the lives of thousands of animals across our community.
Watch our birthday vid below!
For more than three decades, we have worked to be a steady and compassionate force — rescuing, advocating, educating, and bringing people and animals together in ways that strengthen our entire community.
36 Years of Milestones Worth Celebrating
Thanks to the unwavering support of our volunteers, fosters, donors, adopters and partners, we have been able to:
- Help thousands of animals find loving, permanent homes
- Provide critical veterinary care and second chances to vulnerable animals
- Champion spay and neuter initiatives to reduce overpopulation
- Build lasting partnerships rooted in compassion
- Inspire generations of animal advocates
Every adoption tells a story of hope. Every foster placement represents trust. Every volunteer hour reflects extraordinary generosity.
Check out our epic birthday cake and all of the animals on it, plus pictures of our IOW shop teams below..
This anniversary is not just about longevity — it’s about lives changed.
A Community Built on Heart
Friends of the Animals is powered by people who believe kindness matters. Over the past 36 years, our community has shown up — in every season, through every challenge, and in every celebration. From emergency rescues to joyful adoption days, this network of compassionate supporters continues to show what is possible when a community stands together for animals.
We are proud of what we have achieved — and energised for the future.
Looking Ahead with Hope
As we mark this 36th anniversary, we recommit to the work that brought us here: protecting vulnerable animals, supporting responsible pet ownership, and helping build a future where every animal has the chance to thrive.
The need continues — and so does our passion.
With gratitude for 36 incredible years, and excitement for the many more ahead, we celebrate not just an anniversary, but a movement built on compassion.
Posted on March 6th, 2026