Who we are
Marianne Guillet began rescuing animals in Bhutan in 1997.
Founded in 2013 by Marianne Guillet, who is now President, Bhutan Animal Rescue & Care (BARC) is based in Tshaluna, Thimphu, Bhutan. BARC provides rescue, veterinary care, and rehabilitation for Bhutan's homeless and injured animals.
In 2026, BARC will begin construction on phase one of the Center for Animal Happiness, which will offer additional services for animals and living spaces for visiting medical staff. Phases two and three will include educational and community services.
Our founders
Marianne Guillet
Founder and President
Born in France, Marianne was awarded the National Order of Merit Gold by His Majesty the King in 2016. She is known across Bhutan as ‘Rochi Ama.’ Mother of Dogs.
Hendrik Visser
Treasurer
Dutch engineer and sociologist, dedicated to the harmonious co-existence of humans, animals, and nature. Has lived in Bhutan since 1997.
Blessed Valley
BARC is situated in the Tshaluna Valley, home to the Tshelung Ney Monastery, a place of deep spiritual significance. This sacred valley holds deep spiritual significance: the land was blessed in the 8th century by the Second Buddha, Guru Padmasambhava, and has since been a site of spiritual healing in Bhutan.
Our journey
In 1997, Marianne arrived in Bhutan and began treating stray animals.
In 2008, Marianne received the Coronation Medal from His Majesty the King for her work with the animals. She is one of the rare foreigners recognized in this way.
In 2009, Marianne received the Shining World Compassion Award from Supreme Master Ching Hai in recognition of her dedication to animal welfare.
In 2013, BARC was formally established as a registered nonprofit.
In 2016, Marianne received the National Order of Merit Gold from His Majesty the King. This is the highest civilian medal for service to the nation.
In 2026, construction begins on the Center for Animal Happiness.
Meet the Team
Our board members, staff, and volunteers.
Our Partners
Organizations that support our mission.
Frequently asked questions
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BARC tracks concrete annual indicators: animals treated, vaccination coverage, veterinary students trained, percentage of non-grant income, and formal partnerships secured. We review these quarterly and adjust openly when something isn't working — whether that means reallocating resources, renegotiating partnerships, or extending timelines. Transparency with donors about both wins and setbacks is core to how we operate, and we see our collaborations as co-learning processes — spaces to reflect, learn, and adapt together.
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Free-roaming dogs and stray animals in communities and on roads are common sights in Bhutan, but many lack access to basic veterinary care when sick or injured, especially in more remote areas. BARC was established to better provide services to these animals, to increase outreach to those in need, and to promote structural approaches to animal welfare.