The annual Animal Awards ceremony held on November 12, 2025, saw television personality Amanda Holden presiding over an emotional evening celebrating Britain's most extraordinary animals and their dedicated owners. The event, organised by leading animal welfare advocates, recognised outstanding contributions from pets, wildlife rescuers, and conservation champions across the United Kingdom.
Celebrating Animal Excellence
The prestigious awards ceremony brought together remarkable stories of courage, loyalty, and compassion from the animal kingdom. Among the standout winners was Holly the Whippet, who alongside owner Amy, demonstrated incredible bravery in assisting vulnerable community members. Another heartwarming story featured Poppy and owner Shannon Locke, whose partnership has transformed lives in their local area.
Barnabus, a rescue animal with an extraordinary journey, was honoured for his therapeutic work with children, while Miracle lived up to his name through his astonishing recovery and subsequent service as a therapy animal. The ceremony also paid tribute to Anne the elephant, representing decades of conservation efforts and improved welfare standards for captive animals.
Human Champions Recognised
The awards highlighted the vital work of individuals and organisations dedicated to animal welfare. Notable recipients included Andrew Smith, recognised for his innovative approach to wildlife rehabilitation, and Moira Simpson, celebrated for her lifelong commitment to animal rescue operations.
Victoria Eryceson received accolades for her groundbreaking research in animal behaviour, while Marc Abraham was honoured for his persistent campaigning for stronger animal protection laws. David Donovan's work in wildlife conservation and Catherine Henstridge's veterinary innovations were also celebrated during the ceremony.
Organisations making significant impacts included the Halifax and Huddersfield RSPCA Centre, recognised for their extensive rescue operations, and Nowzad, praised for their international animal rescue efforts. Harvey's Army received honours for their community-focused animal support initiatives.
Scientific and Community Contributions
The ceremony acknowledged groundbreaking work in animal science and community engagement. Dr Claire Guest was celebrated for her pioneering research in medical detection dogs, while Cafeology received recognition for their animal-friendly business practices that support local shelters.
Beautiful Joes, representing the legacy of rescue animals, was honoured for promoting adoption awareness nationwide. The awards also recognised individual contributors including Julie Bedford, Maureen Austin, Genevieve Barrett, and Jordan Havel, whose collective efforts have significantly improved animal welfare standards across the UK.
Twiggy, Tilly with owner Heather Purdy, Stella with owner Claire Todd, and Taylor were among the beloved pets celebrated for their extraordinary bonds with humans and their positive impacts on their communities.
The 2025 Animal Awards successfully highlighted the profound connections between humans and animals, showcasing stories that inspire greater compassion and responsibility towards all creatures. The event, hosted by Amanda Holden, reinforced Britain's reputation as a nation of animal lovers while setting new standards for animal welfare recognition.
