Waggel charity partnerships: Keeping pets and owners united.
At Waggel, we take our responsibility for pets beyond just providing insurance by partnering with animal welfare charities to address pressing social issues. Our goal is to ensure owners facing hardship remain united with their pets whilst also providing support to animals in need of forever families through adoption and rehoming initiatives.
Our charity mission.
Animal welfare charities are essential to nurturing the well-being of people, their pets and wider communities. However, they can’t do this incredible work alone. The ongoing cost of living crisis and aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic means that many pet-centred charities are struggling to provide lifesaving care and support for those who need it most.
At Waggel, our responsibility for pets extends far beyond providing insurance. For this reason, we’re working directly with charities to help alleviate issues of homelessness, neglect and mistreatment. We want to ensure the right resources are in place for owners and pets to stay united and supported and for animals without a home to find their forever families through adoption and rehoming efforts.
We understand the value and the bond our members share with their pets. This is why it’s important that we work directly with charities that deliver invaluable support to cats, dogs, and their owners so that they have a second chance to live their best and most fulfilled lives.
The homelessness crisis.
Studies have shown that between 5% to 25% of people experiencing homelessness own a pet, with the majority of those owning dogs. The number of people living in temporary accommodation has also risen by an alarming rate of 74% in the last 10 years, and statistics estimate that there are 320,000 people experiencing homelessness in the UK.
Furthermore, pet ownership can perpetuate homelessness. Under current laws, if someone turns down social housing due to ‘no pet’ clauses, they could be considered ‘intentionally homeless’ by most local authorities. They could also be refused further housing aid, restricting access to support services.
Despite this, studies have also shown that dog ownership amongst people experiencing homelessness can have a variety of social and health benefits, including reducing loneliness, isolation and depression.
For many homeless people, their pet is a lifeline and a source of protection. Giving them up isn’t a simple option and can, in fact, complicate things further.
Here at Waggel, we want to champion a cause that not only supports the livelihood of our pets but also people. This year, we have chosen to launch our long-term charity partnership with StreetVet who do amazing work across the UK to ensure that people experiencing homelessness are supported and able to keep their pets.
Our charity partner, StreetVet.
Who they are.
StreetVet was founded in 2016 by veterinary surgeons, Jade and Sam. Their mission is to ensure that homeless people and their pets receive the veterinary care and support they need, regardless of their financial situation.
Where they provide support.
StreetVet provides a range of veterinary services for the pets of homeless people, including health checks, vaccinations and medication. They aim to build relationships with both pets and their owners, recognising the significance of the bond.
What they do.
StreetVet provides a range of veterinary services including:
Outreach clinics: StreetVet organises regular outreach clinics where veterinary professionals set up stations in accessible locations for homeless individuals to bring their pets for check-ups and treatment.
Emergency care: StreetVet responds to urgent veterinary needs, such as injuries or illnesses, by providing immediate care or arranging referrals to partner veterinary clinics for more complex cases.
Preventative care: In addition to treating existing health issues, StreetVet understands the importance of preventative care, including vaccinations and parasite control, to ensure the long-term health and well-being of the pets in their care.
Partnerships: StreetVet collaborates with other charities, veterinary practices and organisations to expand their reach and resources, enabling them to offer more comprehensive support to homeless pet owners.
Accredited Hostel Scheme: Accredited hostels receive training and support from StreetVet to implement policies and procedures that promote responsible pet ownership and animal welfare without the need for owner and pet separation.
What customers can do to support.
StreetVet does not receive any government funding and relies solely on the support offered via donations and partnerships. Together, we can raise money and awareness for StreetVet and support the pets of people experiencing homelessness.
Donate.
Donate today to support StreetVet. Your donation will help pets across the UK to access the help they need.
Volunteer.
StreetVet are always looking to grow their volunteer network across the UK. Sign up today to be a part of their impact.
Waggel’s Second Chance Grant.
In April 2024, we launched the Second Chance Grant, allocating £25,000 to support the work of rescue shelters and rehomers across the UK. Unfortunately, reports indicate an increase in pets being rehomed due to the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent cost of living crisis. As a result, rescue shelters are experiencing a higher demand in pet surrenders and requests from owners for assistance with ongoing costs.
We hope this funding will enable charities to continue their vital work, ensuring cats and dogs receive the necessary care and find loving homes.
Applications and funding are being allocated on a rolling basis. Please visit the Second Chance Grant page for more information.