Awards from the RSPCA

Applications are now open for the RSPCA’s iconic PawPrints awards, which

recognises public bodies who go the extra mile for animals and their welfare.

Running since 2008, the RSPCA’s flagship PawPrints awards remains the only scheme of its kind, recognising local authorities and public bodies for going above and beyond to deliver world-class animal welfare services.

Local Authorities, housing providers, contingency planners and others play a huge role in the delivery of animal welfare; many of them doing incredible work in the face of steep challenges.

Often this amazing work is done quietly behind the scenes and remains unsung. PawPrints is all about recognising and celebrating these efforts and we’re very proud of the awards scheme.

Over the last 15 years we have handed out nearly 1,500 awards and we are looking forward to celebrating new triumphs this year.

The awards are split into five categories: stray dog services, housing, contingency planning, animal activity licensing, and kenneling. Each category has three levels: bronze, silver and gold - with each carrying progressively more challenging criteria.

There are also two special awards; the ‘Special Recognition’ and ‘Innovator’ awards. The Innovator in Animal Welfare award looks for inspirational and pioneering entries that demonstrate how an animal welfare issue has been tackled in an innovative and imaginative way, and the Special Recognition award recognises individuals or organisations who have demonstrated exceptional commitment and dedication to animal welfare over the last year.

Local authorities are not restricted on the number of awards they can apply for. They can receive awards in multiple categories to fully recognise the value and variety of animal welfare services they deliver.

Local authorities and other public bodies can apply for an award via the RSPCA's dedicated Pawprints webpage.

BSL is a fantastic language and great fun to learn

Shire horses outside Alwalton Church, from Carol Macfarlane