09.10.25
At Naturewatch Foundation, we are proud to celebrate individuals whose compassion, dedication and leadership make a lasting difference to animals’ lives. Yesterday, we were delighted to honour Vanessa Waddon, Founder and CEO of Hope Rescue, with a Naturewatch Foundation Challenge Coin in recognition of her outstanding commitment to improving the welfare of dogs in Wales.
The award was presented to Vanessa during a special World Animal Day event at the Welsh Senedd on 8 October. This was a fitting setting to present the award as Vanessa is also a World Animal Day Ambassador.
A shared commitment to improving animal welfare in Wales
The event, organised in partnership with Hope Rescue and RSPCA Cymru, brought together Members of the Senedd, Welsh Government officials and representatives from across the animal welfare sector. Together, we celebrated recent progress and discussed opportunities to further advance animal welfare across Wales.
The occasion also marked the launch of a joint manifesto for dog welfare, calling on the next Welsh Government to strengthen breeding standards and improve enforcement. Read more about the event here.
Recognising Vanessa’s exceptional leadership and compassion
Hope Rescue is a truly special organisation. As a non-selective rescue, Vanessa and her team are often caring for the most vulnerable, abused and broken dogs. Over the past year, they’ve seen a 38% increase in the number of dogs arriving into their care. Many are strays or are rescued from low-welfare or illegal breeding situations, requiring urgent veterinary treatment and behavioural rehabilitation. Alongside this, Vanessa campaigns tirelessly for improved protections for dogs and was instrumental in securing the Welsh Government’s historic commitment to banning greyhound racing in the nation.
Speaking at the event, Sarah, our CEO, said: “Vanessa and the team at Hope Rescue were obvious choices to receive the Challenge Coin. Their tireless commitment to helping some of the most abused and neglected dogs in Wales makes them truly deserving of recognition. I am personally full of admiration for everything they do.”
Vanessa was nominated for the Challenge Coin by Natalie Harney, Naturewatch Foundation’s Campaign Manager for Companion Animals.
The Naturewatch Foundation Challenge Coin
The Naturewatch Foundation Challenge Coin is awarded to individuals whose work exemplifies our charity’s mission and values. Only four coins are presented each year, symbolising deep respect for those who go above and beyond to advance animal welfare.
Vanessa is just the second recipient of this honour, a reflection of the exceptional impact she and Hope Rescue have had on the lives of dogs in Wales. Read about our first recipient, Police Constable Sam O’Key, here.
Congratulations to Vanessa and the entire Hope Rescue team. Your dedication continues to inspire us all.
