Cheltenham charity’s Pet Rescue Grant gives 52 animals a second chance

Local animal welfare charity, Naturewatch Foundation, is thanking supporters for helping fund its Pet Rescue Grant 2025, which has given 52 rescued dogs, cats and rabbits a second chance.

In April 2025, the charity announced its Pet Rescue Grant winners after receiving 100 applications from rescues across the UK. Following a highly competitive selection process, Hope Rescue, The Bunnyjackpot Foundation, Cat Supporters South Wales and Second Chance Spaniel Rescue were chosen to receive funds from the charity to help support animals affected by the low-welfare and illegal pet trade.

Hope Rescue: 34 dogs given urgent veterinary care

Hope Rescue in South Wales used its grant to help pay for veterinary care for 34 dogs rescued from a dog breeder in Wales. Many arrived in poor condition and had limited experience of human contact. The funds contributed towards neutering and other vital veterinary costs for the dogs.

Among them was Sabrina, a five-year-old Bichon with a heart murmur who arrived at Hope Rescue pregnant. After an emergency C-section and dedicated care from the Hope Rescue team, she and her surviving pup were successfully rehomed. Fellow rescues Cindy, a two-year-old Westie, and Declan, a four-year-old Bichon, have also made full recoveries and are thriving in new homes after being neutered.

The Bunnyjackpot Foundation: “The Naturewatch Eleven”

Foster-based rescue, The Bunnyjackpot Foundation, used its grant to rehabilitate eleven rabbits, affectionately named “The Naturewatch Eleven.” One of them was Astra who arrived with a severely matted coat due to neglect. After receiving a full clip and neutering, Astra has been rehomed with a new companion rabbit called George.

Sadly, not all rescues had happy endings. Aura, who arrived at the rescue in ill health with companion Zeppelin, was found to have signs of a heart mass upon veterinary investigations. She also had breathing difficulties and was underweight. The Bunnyjackpot Foundation had to make the kindest decision, which was to let her go. Thankfully, Zeppelin could be saved and he has now found a forever home with two other rabbits after being neutered.

Heather Medley, Founder and CEO of The Bunnyjackpot Foundation, said: “It is with huge thanks to Naturewatch Foundation that we have been able to help some rabbits in critical circumstances due to the pet trade. Without the grant, some of our rabbits who’ve found their forever homes wouldn’t be here today.”

Second Chance Spaniel Rescue: Three dogs spayed and rehomed

Second Chance Spaniel Rescue used its £1,000 mini-grant to spay three dogs, including Ginger and Patsy, a mother and daughter abandoned at a boarding kennel after being used for breeding. Both dogs have now been rehomed and are enjoying their new lives.

A spokesperson for the volunteer team at Second Chance Spaniel Rescue, said: “As a small volunteer-run rescue, this funding made a real difference. Spaying is a crucial but costly step on a dog’s rehoming journey – this support helped us give three girls the futures they deserve.”

Cat Supporters South Wales: Care for four additional cats

Thanks to their mini-grant, Cat Supporters South Wales were able to take in four cats they otherwise couldn’t have helped. Among them was Oscar, a stray unneutered male cat who was suffering from a painful eye condition and two abscesses. With treatment funded by the grant, he is on the mend and will have eye surgery in the future.

Natalie Harney, Campaign Manager at Naturewatch Foundation, said:

“The Pet Rescue Grant is made possible by our incredible supporters and we’d like to say a huge thank you to them. Rescues are really struggling with rising costs and growing demand so we’re proud to support fantastic organisations doing such vital work. We urge animal-lovers to do what they can to support their local rescue, whether through donating time, funds or food, or considering adoption if they are thinking about welcoming an animal into their homes.”

Pet Rescue Grant 2026

Rescues helping dogs, cats or rabbits affected by the pet trade can register their interest in the 2026 Pet Rescue Grant from Saturday 24th January 2026 at naturewatch.org/pet-rescue-grant.

ENDS

For further information please contact:

Media queries:
Alice Williamson
Campaigns & Marketing Assistant
Naturewatch Foundation
alice@naturewatch.org
+44 (0) 1242 252 871

Campaign queries:
Natalie Harney
Campaign Manager
Naturewatch Foundation
natalie.harney@naturewatch.org
+44 (0) 1242 252 871

About Naturewatch Foundation: Naturewatch Foundation is a UK-based animal welfare charity 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.