The IAVS pays tribute to a true advocate for animal protection

We are very sorry to announce the tragic passing of Yvonne Smalley, the chairperson of the Irish Anti-Vivisection Society (IAVS), on 20th July 2022. Yvonne dedicated her life to animal protection. For around 30 years she volunteered for and chaired the IAVS, ensuring the voice of the animals was heard by the Government and public through pivotal times such as major reforms in animal experimentation legislation and fighting the horrific expansion of botox animal testing.

Incredibly, at the same time she also found the time and energy to care for animals at The Monkey Sanctuary in Co. Wicklow and The National Exotic Animal Sanctuary in Co. Meath.  And she provided a warm, loving home for many rescued cats who she treated as family – towards the end of her life she was particularly upset that she would never see them again.

Yvonne devoted enormous passion and energy to looking after animals. She is terribly missed for her tremendous warmth and (often outrageous) sense of humour, and the IAVS extends its huge sympathy to all her family and friends, particularly her husband Des. The animals have lost a true advocate on their behalf. Through her selfless devotion to those who cannot defend themselves, she lived the most important and meaningful life possible.