Homelessness is a growing issue across the UK, and many people affected have long-standing relationships with their pets – companions who were often part of their lives before they lost stable housing. The bond between them is strong, and looking after their pet’s health and wellbeing is a top priority. StreetVet is a UK charity that provides free, essential veterinary care to support both the animals and the people who care for them.
Founded in 2016, StreetVet is now a multi award-winning charity, operating in 23 towns and cities across the UK with a volunteer-delivered service where more than 300 veterinary professionals give their time and expertise to the charity for free. Their work ensures that pets receive everything from vaccinations and parasite treatments to life-saving surgeries, no matter their owner’s housing situation.
In 2023, StreetVet was awarded a two-year grant of over £45,000 per year from Purina’s BetterWithPets Prize. This support has helped them expand operations and scale the StreetVet Accredited Hostel Scheme, which removes barriers to housing by working with hostels to welcome both people and their pets.
On the impact of winning the prize, Jade Statt, co-founder at StreetVet; says: “The support we’ve received from Purina has been incredible. It’s allowed us to grow our outreach and invest in the foundations that keep our teams running safely and sustainably.
“Being recognised by the BetterWithPets Prize gave real credibility to what we do and also opened up amazing opportunities to connect and collaborate with inspiring organisations across Europe. The exposure and platform it offers has helped raise awareness of our mission, and the expert guidance from Purina has been instrumental in shaping how we scale our work for greater impact.
“It’s a truly rewarding experience, and I’d encourage any organisation that is considering applying to absolutely go for it. It’s more than funding – it’s also a chance to grow, learn, and be part of a community that genuinely believes in the power of the pet-human bond.”
Applications are now open for Purina’s 2025 BetterWithPets Prize, offering organisations that improve the health and wellbeing of people in vulnerable situations through the pet-human bond a chance to win a share of a two-year grant of £170,000.
This year, Purina is interested in hearing from organisations who work with assistance dogs, offer animal-assisted therapies and provide pet companionship for the elderly.
The Prize is part of Purina’s mission to improve the lives of 1,000,000 people in vulnerable situations by 2030, and winners gain more than funding – they join the BetterWithPets community, sharing best practices and scaling impact together with Purina and fellow changemakers.
Applying is quick and straightforward – if your organisation is helping people through the power of pets, don’t miss this opportunity.
Apply before 12 September 2025 at: Purina Better with Pets Prize | Purina
