Animal welfare charity announces winners of the Pet Rescue Grant 2025

Animal welfare charity announces winners of the Pet Rescue Grant 2025

[3rd April 2025] – UK animal welfare charity, Naturewatch Foundation, has announced the recipients of its 2025 Pet Rescue Grant, which awards vital funding to animal rescues dedicated to rehabilitating dogs, cats and rabbits affected by the illicit pet trade.

Now in its second year, the Pet Rescue Grant provides vital support to frontline animal rescues caring for pets who have been exploited for profit. This year, following an overwhelming response of 100 applications from across the UK, the charity has awarded grants to four outstanding rescue organisations to aid their life-saving work.

Grant recipients

• ● The Bunnyjackpot Foundation in South-West England has been awarded £5,000 to support the care and rehoming of ten rescued rabbits, dubbed ‘The Naturewatch Ten.’
• ● Hope Rescue in Wales has been granted £5,000 to help with veterinary costs for dogs seized from illegal breeders.
• ● Second Chance Spaniel Rescue, which operates across the UK, has been awarded £1,000 to fund the neutering of three ex-breeding spaniels.
• ● Cat Supporters South Wales has been awarded £1,000 to assist with veterinary care costs for stray and abandoned cats in South Wales.

Continuing the fight against pet exploitation

Naturewatch Foundation is committed to tackling the exploitation of pets for profit through its campaigns and investigations. Thanks to the generosity of its supporters, the Pet Rescue Grant continues to make a difference to animals in need.

Natalie Harney from Naturewatch Foundation said: “The rescue sector is going through a really difficult time at the moment and that’s shown by the huge number of applications we received again this year. Sadly, dogs, cats and rabbits who’ve been exploited for profit in the pet trade often have costly and complex medical and welfare needs, with rescues typically footing the bill. Thanks to our wonderful supporters, we’re pleased to be able to give back to these incredible organisations doing such difficult and vital work. We encourage everyone to support their local rescue by adopting, volunteering or donating.”

For more information about Naturewatch Foundation’s work for animals, visit naturewatch.org.

ENDS

Notes to editors

Images available on request.

For further information please contact:

Natalie Harney

Campaign Manager, Naturewatch Foundation

natalie.harney@naturewatch.org

+44 (0) 1242 252 871

General media enquiries:

Alice Williamson

Campaigns and Marketing at Naturewatch Foundation

info@naturewatch.org

About Naturewatch Foundation:

Naturewatch Foundation is a national animal welfare charity based in Cheltenham that’s dedicated to ending cruelty and improving the lives of animals through campaigning, education and advocacy. For over 30 years, the charity has led initiatives to tackle illegal and unethical practices, including puppy farming, animal experiments and wildlife crime. By working with policymakers, enforcement agencies and the public, Naturewatch Foundation strives to make the world a kinder place for animals.

Visit naturewatch.org to find out more.