After a search for social entrepreneurs across Europe and beyond, Purina has revealed that UK charity StreetVet, with its proposed Accredited Hostel Scheme, has been shortlisted for the Purina BetterwithPets Prize.
The prize invites entries from entrepreneurs whose work focuses on the power of the pet human bond and whose efforts are helping to transform society. It is run by petcare company Purina in collaboration with Ashoka, a pioneer in the field of social entrepreneurship. StreetVet was chosen from 150 applicants from Europe, the Middle East and North Africa
The StreetVet Accredited Hostel Scheme offers free, accessible veterinary care for pets whose owners are homeless and support for hostel managers and staff to adopt and implement positive pet policies.
Jade Statt, co-founder of StreetVet, said: “Discovering a competition that celebrates the importance of the human animal bond felt like fate, one the StreetVet team felt compelled to enter. We are so delighted that we did! Going through this process has been really enlightening and we are beyond pleased that our project has reached the final, it is a real privilege.”
The finalists will take part in an online pitch on June 3, after which, Bernard Meunier, CEO, Nestlé Purina PetCare EMENA, will announce the winners.
Mary Sharrock, external relations rirector, Purina, said: “The work StreetVet do is simply amazing and I’m delighted they’ve made the shortlist. Throughout the selection process for the BetterwithPets Prize, we found ourselves inspired by so many of the initiatives which harnessed the pet-human bond in such innovative ways and create positive changes in communities.”
FINALISTS
The other finalists in the category for implemented/piloted innovation alongside StreetVet, include:
n Courthouse Dogs Research (Spain) – An academic initiative that explores the inclusion of dogs in the judicial system to humanize the courts, offer a coping mechanism for minors, and facilitate the work of court professionals
n Evi’dence (France) – A programme that makes animal mediation essential in the prison experience, during and after release, helping offenders grow and supporting them with reintegration into our society
Gamelles Pleines (France) – Helping homeless pet owners to feed, care and keep their pet — harnessing the benefits of pet ownership for a successful social reintegration
n Reading Dogs (United Arab Emirates) – An educational project that welcomes specially trained dogs into schools, nurseries and educational facilities to help children learn to read and practice language skills in a non-judgemental atmosphere.
This is the second edition of BetterwithPets prize. The first, which was awarded in 2018, saw two UK charities – Medical Detection Dogs and Canine Hope – share the runners-up position.
