This year, we launched our first-ever Pet Rescue Grant to provide vital support for dogs, cats, and rabbits impacted by the low-welfare and illegal pet trade. As rescue centres face mounting pressure, animals who’ve endured unimaginable cruelty and exploitation for profit desperately need compassion and care to help them heal and find happiness.
We received an incredible 72 applications from rescues across the UK, each one doing important work to help animals in need. After much careful consideration, we awarded grants to three inspiring rescues: Bliss Cavalier Rescue, Axholme Cat Rescue, and Rabbit Residence Rescue. Let’s take a closer look at the lives your support has helped change this year.
A fresh start after a life of breeding: Bliss Cavalier Rescue
Earlier this year, Bliss Cavalier Rescue welcomed a number of ex-breeding Cavalier King Charles Spaniels from Wales. Each dog arrived with heartbreaking health issues, a painful reality of their previous lives. But thanks to your support, we were able to award the rescue £5,000 to help cover essential veterinary care for six special girls: Cleo, Olivia, Ella, Winnie, Dora and Mabel.
These sweet dogs were suffering from Chiari malformation, a painful condition that causes headaches and brain pressure. It’s a terrible condition for any dog to suffer, let alone one forced into repeated breeding cycles. If this weren’t enough, they also arrived with rotting teeth, ear mites, eye problems, and three had developed heart disease.
With the funds provided, Bliss Cavalier Rescue ensured these brave girls received vital treatment, including neutering, parasite control, dental work and all-important pain relief. And the best news? After tender love from fosterers, each dog is now thriving in a new, loving home. Thank you for helping to give them the fresh start they deserve!
Axholme Cat Rescue: A new roof for vital cat shelter
When a kitten named Bap was abandoned by a pet seller at a vet’s office with a severe prolapse, Axholme Cat Rescue sprang into action. They dipped into their cattery repair fund to cover Bap’s treatment, showing their unwavering commitment to the cats they serve. But as a small charity caring for over 100 cats each year, they needed a little extra help to finish their crucial roof repairs.
Thanks to a grant of £2,850, Axholme Cat Rescue could finally complete these repairs over the summer. Now, their furry residents are safe and cosy in refreshed facilities, protected from the elements and ready to enjoy life in a comfortable, welcoming space. Your support made this possible, giving vulnerable cats like Bap and many others the shelter and care they need to thrive and find new homes.
‘Designer’ rabbits get the care they deserve: Rabbit Residence Rescue
Rabbits are often misunderstood pets and, sadly, many are bought impulsively or as “starter pets,” only to be neglected or abandoned when their needs become too challenging. Designer breeding trends have also impacted rabbits, with some bunnies left to suffer from conditions exacerbated by selective breeding.
To help change this, we awarded Rabbit Residence Rescue £5,000, allowing them to continue their amazing work of rehabilitating and rehoming rabbits, many of whom have been purchased on impulse.
One such rabbit was Vinnie, who arrived in terrible shape, covered in faeces and with overgrown nails. He also suffered from a blocked tear duct due to his flat face, a condition that had gone untreated until he arrived at the rescue. Now, thanks to the dedicated team at Rabbit Residence Rescue and your support, Vinnie is thriving in his forever home, where he enjoys life with his new bunny friend, Bokchoi!
We’re doing it again in 2025 – help us spread the word!
Your support has made all the difference for these dogs, cats and rabbits. In January 2025, we’ll launch our next round of the Pet Rescue Grant, ready to continue this important work. Applications open to pet rescues on the 24th January in celebration of Change a Pet’s Life Day!
Do you know a rescue that goes above and beyond for animals affected by the pet trade? We’d love to hear from you! Send us your recommendations and we’ll send all the details to your favourite rescue about how to apply.
Thank you for transforming lives, one pet at a time.
If you want to learn more about our work please visit our Companion Animal pages.
Image credit: Bliss Cavalier Rescue; Axholme Cat Rescue; Rabbit Residence Rescue.
