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Animal Welfare Foundation
The Animal Welfare Foundation (AWF) supports the veterinary profession to use its unique position to drive improvements in animal welfare. The charity funds research, supports veterinary education, provides pet care advice, and encourages debate on key animal welfare issues.
Members of BVA set up AWF as an independent charity to work directly with the veterinary profession to improve the welfare of animals in the UK. As BVA’s charity AWF has a close working relationship with the Association, and BVA remain one of its key stakeholders and supporters.
Education and debate
Through the annual AWF Discussion Forum we inspire the profession to confront controversial welfare issues through open and honest debate. Past topics include the welfare of exotic animals, farm animals, designer dogs, and welfare at slaughter. Our free welfare talks give veterinary students the chance to learn more about welfare and prepare themselves for the issues they might face in practice.
Research Call 2026
The 2026 Research Call is now open
If you are a researcher or practising vet/vet nurse with innovative research project ideas that could improve the lives of managed species in the UK, you could apply for funding for your research project and shape the future of animal welfare science.
Applications are being accepted until midnight on Sunday 10 May 2026.
Type of research
Researcher led projects with a clear focus on animal welfare in any species. Practising vets or vet nurses, with research experience, are welcome to apply.
Grant amount
A total of £80,000 is available, which may be used to fund more than one project.
Eligibility
The principal investigator should have a demonstrable research track record and be based in the UK.
Publication
The research should be appropriate for publishing in a peer-reviewed journal with open access.
Impact
Projects should be relevant to veterinary and allied professionals in the UK and have the potential for practical solutions
Knowledge exchange
Projects that are able to deliver impact and have a strong knowledge exchange plan outlined will score highly
Research grants
Funding scientific research to find practical solutions to animal welfare issues has been at the heart of AWF’s work since the beginning. Our research has resulted in the development of novel educational tools, led to breakthrough diagnostics, and the development of techniques to promote the uptake of veterinary advice. AWF’s student research grants provide a unique opportunity for students to develop their research skills and have a practical impact on welfare.
Advice resources
We provide pet owners with free advice resources that have been written and approved by vets on a variety of topics including euthanasia, poisons, and exercise. We also create evidence-based guidance for veterinary professionals to support them in their work.
Puppy Contract:
AWF and RSPCA developed The Puppy Contract to encourage those buying and breeding puppies to do so responsibly. This free toolkit contains information provided by the breeder that buyers can use to make a decision on whether to buy the puppy they have seen.
Support AWF:
Help us address the top welfare issues faced by animals today:
- Corporate partnerships - let’s work together to tackle key animal welfare issues.
- Help us raise funds - from cost-free giving, to running marathons - we have a way for you to support our work.
- Donate - become a regular donor through our website.
- Remember us in your will - leaving AWF a gift in your will is a powerful way to make sure your passion for animal welfare lives on.