Naturewatch Foundation, an animal welfare charity, is calling for applications for their 2025 Pet Rescue Grant. The grant aims to support UK animal rescues in their efforts to help dogs, cats and rabbits affected by the country’s low-welfare and illegal pet trade. The application process will open on Friday 24th January 2025.
The grant is available for eligible UK charities and community interest companies (CICs), and they can apply for up to £10,000 to aid in the rescue and rehabilitation of animals exploited for profit. This year, for the first time, a mini-grant of up to £1,000 will also be available for unincorporated charities and voluntary organizations carrying out essential animal welfare work in their local community.
In the previous year, the Pet Rescue Grant provided crucial support to three rescues – Bliss Cavalier Rescue, Axholme Cat Rescue, and Rabbit Residence Rescue. They utilized the funds to assist dogs, cats, and rabbits that were impacted by the harmful practices of puppy farming, designer breeding trends, and irresponsible pet selling.
Natale Harney, Campaign Manager at Naturewatch Foundation, stated, “The Pet Rescue Grant is not just about providing funds; it’s about giving exploited animals a second chance. As a small charity, we are proud to support the incredible work of rescues across the UK, especially during these challenging times when there is a higher demand for animal welfare services.”
Naturewatch Foundation is known for its advocacy for stronger pet welfare protections and its investigations into public tip-offs about the illegal pet trade in the UK. This will be the second year of the Pet Rescue Grant, and it opens for applications at a time when UK rescues are facing high demands due to the cost-of-living crisis, the Covid-19 puppy boom, and the XL bully ban.
Rescue organizations interested in applying can visit naturewatch.org/petrescuegrant or email petrescuegrant@naturewatch.org for more information. The application process will open on 24th January 2025 and close on 21st February 2025.
ENDS
Derick is an experienced reporter having held multiple senior roles for large publishers across Europe. Specialist subjects include small business and financial emerging markets.