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Naturewatch Foundation grant to open for applications
The Pet Rescue Grant is designed to support animals affected by the illegal pet trade.
Animal rescuers can apply from 24 January.

Naturewatch Foundation has invited animal rescuers from across the UK to apply for a share of its 2025 Pet Rescue Grant.

From Friday, 24 January UK charities and community interest companies (CICs) with an income of up to £5m will be able to apply for a grant of up to £10,000 towards their animal rescue and rehabilitation work.

For the first time, Naturewatch Foundation is also offering a mini-grant of £1,000 to unincorporated charities and voluntary organisations working in their local community.

The Pet Rescue Grant is designed specifically to support dogs, cats and rabbits that are affected by the UK’s illegal pet trade. This includes cases such as illegal puppy farming, unlicensed breeding and the irresponsible sale of pets.

In 2024, the grant’s first year, the Pet Rescue Grant received 72 applications to its fund. Bliss Cavalier Rescue, Axholme Cat Rescue and Rabbit Residence Rescue each received funding to support their animal welfare work.

Many of the proposals were related to veterinary causes, with applications accepted from around the UK for dog, cat and rabbit charities.

Although last year’s fund offered grants of up to £5,000 to charities, the charity says the generosity of it supporters has now allowed it to increase its maximum grant to £10,000.

Naturewatch Foundation says that their funding is particularly important this year, with many UK rescue charities working at full capacity. It says that many organisations are still seeing the impacts of the cost-of-living crisis, Covid-19 puppy boom and the XL bully ban.

Natalie Harney, campaign manager at Naturewatch Foundation, said: “The Pet Rescue Grant is about more than just funding; it’s about helping to give exploited animals a second chance.

“Although we’re a small charity ourselves, we’re proud to support the incredible work of rescues across the UK, especially during challenging times when demand for animal welfare services is higher than ever.”

Applications will open from 24 January and will close on 21 February. Rescue organisations can apply on the Naturewatch Foundation website.

Image © Shutterstock

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Defra shares new Sanitary and Phytosanitary guidance

News Story 1
 Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.

The agreement, which will change the movement and trade of animals and related products, could see reductions in checks, paperwork and certification. As well as describing regulatory developments, the advice highlights the importance of animal ID, registration and traceability in disease control and other compliance arrangements.

The guidance can be found here. More detail is expected as negotiations progress. 

Click here for more...
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Lords Committee opens Pet Parasite Medication inquiry

The House of Lords Environment and Climate Change Committee will launch its inquiry into Pet Parasite Medication (PPM) on Wednesday (3 June).

Focusing on treatments containing fipronil and imidacloprid, the inquiry will seek to understand distribution pathways and the impacts of PPM use and non-use on biodiversity and human health. It will also cover current regulation, monitoring, and the potential implications for pets and their owners.

The committee will hear evidence from environmental non-governmental organisations and research institutes. The public can follow the proceedings live on Parliament TV or in person in the Palace of Westminster.