About Us
Last Hope Animal Charity was founded by Hilary Bartley in 2004. At the time, she was working for Smith & Foleys veterinary practice in Navan and every day she was met with overwhelming requests from people needing help with animals.
There was little available for animal rescue in Meath back then, and she knew she had to do something. Hilary launched Last Hope with a vision to fill that gap, aiming to save as many animals as possible.
Now, 20 years later, thanks to her dedication and the support of our team and volunteers, Last Hope has become a cornerstone of animal rescue in Meath.
As with most charities, the heart of our work is our volunteer network, and we are always in need of more helping hands. Our rescue is run entirely by volunteers, and each of us puts in countless hours to make a difference.
We are also foster based, because we believe every animal deserves to experience love and comfort before finding their forever home.
We are looking for passionate people who can foster animals, including cats, dogs, and rabbits, providing them with a safe, loving space before they find their forever homes.
We also need volunteers to help with transport – collecting animals, equipment or moving animals between foster homes and vets, which is critical to our operations.
Additionally, our TNR (Trap-Neuter-Return) program for feral cats is expanding, and we need more people willing to help us humanely manage the cat population.
And as always, fundraising – this is essential to keeping Last Hope running, whether you can organise a fundraiser, join an event, or simply spread the word, every bit helps.
If you have room in your home or your heart, we’d love to welcome you to Last Hope’s volunteer family.
Thank you again for being here and for contributing to Last Hope’s mission. With you beside us, we are able to create a future where every animal in Meath has the chance to live safely, with dignity and love. Together, we’re not just rescuing animals, we’re building a legacy of care, compassion, and commitment. Sometimes we are their only hope.
Volunteering
Join our amazing team of volunteers and help make a difference in your community. From fundraising and transport to TNR and fostering there’s something for everyone. You don’t need experience, just compassion, commitment, and a love for animals.
What We Do
Fostering
Fostering is a lifeline for cats, dogs, and rabbits waiting for their forever homes. Foster carers provide a safe, caring environment where animals can heal and thrive.
Fundraising
Our work depends on the generosity and dedication of volunteers and supporters.
Whether you help organise or attend the many events we have running through out the year, your efforts fund vital vet care, food, and shelter for animals in need.
TRANSPORT
Transport volunteers help move animals safely between vets or collect animals in distress. If you have a reliable vehicle and some spare time, you can play a key role in our rescue work.
We provide guidance to make every journey comfortable and secure for the animals. Your support helps us get pets the care and homes they deserve.