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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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Webinar to explore history of KC breed registers

News Story 1
 A free webinar exploring the development of the Kennel Club's registration system and the evolution of closed breed registers has been announced.

Hosted by Dr Alison Skipper, veterinary and research advisor at the Kennel Club, the webinar will delve into the development of the registry and how the changing landscape of scientific knowledge has shaped breeding practices. It will also look at what this means for the future of pedigree dogs.

The session will culminate with a look at The Kennel Club's ongoing and future engagement in this area, with a chance for attendees to put forward their thoughts and questions for discussion.

This event takes place on Microsoft Teams on Tuesday, 10 June at 7pm. To learn more, visit events.teams.microsoft.com  

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.