Celebrities Who Support Animal Charities

Pop sensation Justin Bieber has made a plea to his fans to adopt animals in need of a home before purchasing a brand new pet from a store. After starring in an ad for People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) two years ago, the teen idol has recently opened up about his passion by speaking to Animal Times magazine, explaining, "It's really important that people adopt. I really encourage going out to an animal shelter or a place where you can get a dog who has been abandoned or doesn't have a home."

Justin Bieber is just one in a long line of celebrities who support animal charities. Over the years, plenty of big names have waved the banner in the name of protecting their favourite animals. Let's take a look and see who dedicates their time to our furry friends!

Leona Lewis

The 2006 "X Factor" winner has made no secret of her passion for animals. On her Twitter account, she often lets her fans know who she is supporting, but she is best associated with the World Society for the Protection of Animals (WSPA) and the World Wildlife Fund (WWF).

Ellen DeGeneres

In February this year, Ellen auctioned a lock of Justin Bieber's hair to The Gentle Barn, who rescue animals from abuse. The star also won an award for her work with PETA in 2009 and has more recently been honoured again by the PETCO Foundation.

Sean Penn

Sean Penn has been a supporter of the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society for many years and is now an Advisory Board member for the charity. Their mission is to prevent shark finning, poaching and end the killing of marine wildlife.

Katherine Heigl

Long-time dog lover Katherine Heigl set up The Jason Debus Heigl Foundation (JDHF) in memory of her brother who died in 1986. The aim of the charity is to, "eliminate the needless suffering inflicted on animals by human cruelty, indifference, and ignorance." Money raised goes towards rescue groups and the cost of spaying and neutering, among other things.

Joseph Fiennes

Former "Flashforward" star Joseph Fiennes is a supporter of many charities, one of which is Elephant Family. Elephant Family is dedicated to protecting the habitat of elephants in Asia and making people aware of the endangered Asian elephant. Other celebrity supporters for this charity include Stephen Fry, Sarah Ferguson and Calvin Klein.