Why are Animal Welfare Charities Important?
From majestic elephants facing habitat loss to abandoned dogs yearning for a loving home, animals all over the world suffer from neglect, exploitation, and cruelty. An estimated 5 million animals enter US shelters annually, while globally, millions face habitat destruction and illegal wildlife trade. These sobering statistics paint a picture of a world in need of compassion, but amidst the shadows, a symphony of hope resonates through the tireless efforts of animal welfare charities. These dedicated organizations stand as guardians for the voiceless, championing their well-being and advocating for a kinder future.
Businesses Supporting Animal Welfare Charities
There are many well known examples of businesses supporting animal welfare - including Lego's support of the WWF and Boots dedicated partnership with Blue Cross.
However, we have noticed at Virtue that there are a ton of SMBs supporting some great animal charities. PAWDAW of London is a pet supplies brand that started working with Virtue's Shopify Store Donation App back in 2023 - donating 1% of every sale to PAWDAW of London. Not only have they made a real impact for the charity Dogs on the Streets - check out our case study on PAWDAW of London and see how giving back boosted their site conversion rates!
Animal Welfare Awareness Days
For businesses looking to support an Animal Welfare charity, there is never a better time than now. However, there are some specific awareness events dedicated towards supporting Animals including; Spay and Neuter Awareness Month, National Pet Month, and International Cat Day.
Here are a few of the best Animal Welfare charities to support:
Blue Cross
GiveWell Rating - 4 Stars
Established in the year 1899, this organization, rooted in the United Kingdom, plays a crucial role in delivering essential care and rehabilitation to neglected and unwell animals, ensuring they find permanent, affectionate homes. Beyond that, they actively engage in educating the public about responsible pet ownership and fervently support the cause of animal welfare legislation.
Impact: In 2002 Blue Cross provided care to over 150,000 pets and helped to rehome over 43,000
World Animal Protection
GiveWell Rating - 4 Stars
Established in 1921, this international organization works in over 150 countries to improve animal welfare through campaigning, education, and legal advocacy. They focus on combating factory farming, protecting wildlife, and promoting responsible pet ownership.
Impact: In 2022, World Animal Protection secured cage-free commitments from over 1,400 companies, rescued over 137,000 animals from disasters, and helped introduce or strengthen animal welfare laws in over 30 countries.
Battersea Dogs & Cats Home
GiveWell Rating - 4 Stars
Founded in 1860, this iconic UK-based rescue centre rehomes thousands of abandoned dogs and cats annually. They also offer veterinary care, behavioural training, and education programs on responsible pet ownership.
Impact: In 2022, Battersea rehomed over 5,300 dogs and cats, provided over 163,000 veterinary appointments, and launched educational programs reaching over 30,000 children, instilling compassion for animals in future generations.
Born Free Foundation
GiveWell Rating - 4 Stars
Established in 1984, this UK-based organization protects wild animals worldwide by fighting against cruelty in captivity, promoting conservation, and advocating for wildlife-friendly policies.
Impact: In 2022, Born Free successfully opposed proposals for trophy hunting in Botswana and Zimbabwe, helped release over 850 wild animals from captivity, and supported anti-poaching efforts in critical wildlife habitats.
International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW)
GiveWell Rating - 4 Stars
Founded in 1969, this international organization rescues and rehabilitates animals in distress, protects endangered species, and fights against illegal wildlife trade.
Impact: In 2022, IFAW rescued over 3,500 animals from disasters and poaching activities, helped seize over 17 tons of illegal wildlife products, and provided critical veterinary care to thousands of animals worldwide.
Brooke
GiveWell Rating - 4 Stars
Founded in 1824, this UK-based organization improves the lives of working horses, donkeys, and mules around the world by providing veterinary care, training for owners, and advocating for their welfare.
Impact: In 2022, Brooke treated over 386,000 working animals, trained over 35,000 owners on humane practices, and supported the development of stronger animal welfare legislation in several countries.
World Wildlife Fund (WWF)
GiveWell Rating - 4 Stars
Founded in 1961, this international organization works in over 100 countries to conserve nature and address climate change, ultimately benefiting countless animal species. They focus on protecting endangered species, reducing habitat loss, and promoting sustainable practices. Impact:
Impact: In 2022, WWF secured the protection of over 13 million acres of land and marine habitat, contributing to the conservation of thousands of animal species globally.
Soi Dog Foundation
GiveWell Rating - 4 Stars
Since its inception in 2003, this dedicated organization has been committed to the rescue and welfare of stray dogs and cats in Thailand. Their efforts include rescuing these animals and providing crucial medical treatment, sterilization, and avenues for adoption.
Impact: The charity rescued nearly 250,000 animals in 2022 alone. -and was able to reunite over 5000 pets with their owners.
Jane Goodall Institute
GiveWell Rating - 4 Stars
Founded in 1977 by the legendary primatologist Dr. Jane Goodall, this organization promotes chimpanzee conservation, research, and education worldwide. They advocate for habitat protection, ethical treatment of chimpanzees, and sustainable human-wildlife interactions.
Impact: The Jane Goodall Institute has established numerous chimpanzee sanctuaries, launched conservation education programs reaching millions of people, and inspired countless individuals to champion the protection of these intelligent primates.
Animal Legal Defense Fund (ALDF)
GiveWell Rating - 4 Stars
Established in 1979, this US-based organization uses legal advocacy to protect the rights of animals through litigation, legislative initiatives, and public education. They focus on ending animal cruelty, challenging factory farming practices, and promoting animal welfare legislation.
Impact: ALDF has secured numerous legal victories to protect animals, including bans on cruel battery cage systems for egg-laying hens and the transportation of horses for slaughter.
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