A quiet promise, kept every day.
Back Into Daylight is a sanctuary in Eastern Ireland where over 450 rescued animals live out their lives in safety, dignity, and peace — cared for around the clock by two people and a circle of devoted volunteers.
“We really appreciate you taking the time to learn more about our charity and hope you can consider supporting our work.”— Declan & Sharon, Founders
Declan Bowens & Sharon Dunne
Founders and full-time carers at Back Into Daylight Animal Sanctuary. We started the sanctuary twelve years ago from our own home just outside Navan, and we have never looked back.
Started at home, twelve years ago
The sanctuary began in our own home just outside Navan, Co. Meath.
Round-the-clock care
We provide 24-hour care, every day of the year, to over 450 animal residents.
Backed by dedicated volunteers
We are fortunate to have volunteers who help with admin, communication, fundraising and expansion projects.
Twelve years of quiet, steady growth.
What began as a rescue from our family home has grown into a registered charity offering a loving home to over 450 animals — all of them cared for by people who give their time for free.
By Declan Bowens and Sharon Dunne in Navan, Co. Meath.
Successfully registered as a charity in the Republic of Ireland.
Dogs, cats, geese, turkeys, pigeons, pigs, goats, ducks, hens, cockerels, and exotic birds.
100% unpaid volunteers keep the sanctuary going every day.
Onsite care and support for all animals, every hour of every day.
Awarded a grant for "excellent work" by the Department of Agriculture.
A future where humans and other animals live in peace and harmony.
We create a safe and loving forever home for farmed and domestic animals in need. We foster small domestic animals and find them a family best suited to their needs and personality. We promote a vegan philosophy and strive to show people the incredible beauty and individuality of other animals.
Three quiet pillars of daily care.
Build & care
- We build secure homes to cater for the ever-increasing number of animals in need.
- We ensure everyone has access to plenty of space and enrichment to keep them comfortable and content.
- We provide the right balance of nutrients so everyone can live long and healthy lives.
Rehabilitate & heal
- We rehabilitate sick and injured animals back to good health.
- We partner with highly qualified veterinarian practices to provide our animals with routine medical care to keep them at their best.
- Each animal receives an individualized recovery and enrichment plan.
Educate & advocate
- We organise volunteering days for people to engage with the animals and learn about them.
- We advocate for and promote a way of living that excludes all forms of animal exploitation.
- We use various channels to educate the public about responsible animal guardianship.
Thank you for walking with us.
Every share, donation and hour volunteered helps us keep our promise to the animals who call Back Into Daylight home. If our story resonates with you, there are many ways to be part of it.