On Friday, June 2, 2023, the BISP community came together for a heartwarming and impactful event—the first annual BISP Animal Welfare Day! With a focus on spreading awareness and support for local animal welfare organisations, the day was filled with compassion, creativity, and fundraising initiatives.

The highlight of the day was the Animal Welfare Assembly, where Year 7 to 9 students gathered to learn about the remarkable work done by various local organisations, including Rawai Animal Lovers, Phuket Stray Dog Shelter, Bodhi Dog Rescue and Adoption, and Sonya’s Angel Paws Rescue and Adoption. The dedication of our Art for Service students was evident as they shared their efforts throughout the school year to raise awareness and funds for these worthy causes.

Students also had the opportunity to showcase their artistic talents through an Animal Photography Contest, with categories ranging from “Happy & Healthy Rescue Animal” to “Cutest Cat” and “My Pet & I.” Congratulations to all the winners who received 500 Baht BAKE vouchers, and thank you to Janice of Chow Pet Foods, Russell of Canine Academy, and Callie, a volunteer at the Phuket Stray Dog Shelter, for serving as judges.

Throughout the day, students, parents, and staff actively participated in various activities. An Animal-Themed Dress Day fundraiser saw our school community dressed as their favourite furry friends, raising funds for RAL and the Phuket Stray Dog Shelter. Additionally, an Animal Welfare Drive encouraged students to bring essential items such as food, shampoos, flea/tick care, litter, toys, towels, and bedding for distribution to local animal welfare organisations.

The Art for Service students put their creativity to good use by setting up fundraising stalls, including graffiti stencil spray painting of animal designs on t-shirts, selling animal-themed trinkets, providing animal face painting, and offering handmade coral reef-inspired postcards. Year 9 students also contributed with their Loombands for sale, with all proceeds going to animal charities.

The event was a tremendous success, not only in terms of raising awareness but also in gathering support. An astounding 34,581 Baht was raised on the day, which will be used to purchase even more supplies for the local animal welfare organisations. We are immensely grateful to everyone who participated, donated, and volunteered. Your compassion and enthusiasm have made a significant difference in the lives of our furry friends.