In December 2025, the Irish Government announced a record €6.4 million allocation to animal welfare charities across the country, recognising the increasing pressure on rescue organisations and the growing need for structured welfare, care, and support for animals in Ireland.
The funding was confirmed by Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Martin Heydon TD, under the Animal Welfare Grants Programme, with 94 animal welfare organisations receiving financial support nationwide.
Official Government Announcement:
This allocation represents the largest single funding package ever distributed under the scheme.
Why This Funding Matters
Animal welfare charities across Ireland are facing unprecedented demand. Rising surrender rates, increased operational costs, staffing pressures, and longer kennel stays have placed significant strain on organisations tasked with caring for vulnerable animals.
This funding provides essential support for daily animal care and welfare, veterinary treatment, housing and facilities, operational sustainability, and ongoing welfare responsibilities. For dogs in particular, this funding improves quality of life while awaiting rehoming, allowing organisations the time and resources required to care responsibly for animals whose futures may be uncertain.
Total Funding Breakdown
Total funding allocated: €6,434,803
Number of organisations funded: 94
Funding body: Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine
Announcement date: December 2025
Animal Welfare Charities and Grants Awarded (December 2025)
County Clare
Burren Animal Rescue — €20,475
Clare Animal Welfare — €20,000
Irish Whale & Dolphin Group — €10,000
Second Chance Animal Rescue — €31,475
County Galway
Galway SPCA — €96,750
MADRA — €40,000
Galway Cat Rescue — €19,000
Pro Animale Ireland CLG — €29,000
Renvyle Cat & Dog Rescue — €18,250
Fellenberg Foundation Ireland Ltd — €14,000
Forgotten Horses Ireland — €18,000
Galway & Claddagh Swan Rescue — €14,800
County Dublin
National SPCA — €2,606,825
The Irish Blue Cross — €500,000
North County Dublin SPCA — €50,000
Dogs Aid Animal Sanctuary — €30,000
Fingal SPCA — €16,200
Cats Aid — €21,625
The Cat & Dog Protection Association of Ireland — €46,075
St Francis Dispensary for Sick & Injured Animals — €40,000
TNR West Dublin — €15,000
Clondalkin Animal Aid — €14,050
Animal Trust Fund — €14,000
Dog Angels — €8,000
North Dublin Cat Rescue — €6,000
County Cork
The Donkey Sanctuary — €320,000
Cork SPCA — €156,950
Cork Dog Action Welfare Group (Cork DAWG) — €69,975
West Cork Animal Welfare Group — €40,725
Pauline’s Rescue — €46,050
Munster Lost & Found Pet Helpline — €30,000
Cork Cat Action Trust — €30,000
Community Cats Network — €26,000
Wildlife Rescue Cork — €12,000
Rehoming Cork Pets — €13,050
Cork Animal Care Society — €13,500
Homeless Animal Rescue Team (HART) — €18,000
Rural Animal Welfare Resources (RAWR) — €7,000
Additional funding was awarded to organizations in
Kerry, Limerick, Mayo, Meath, Wicklow, Wexford, Kildare, Tipperary, Donegal, Longford, Laois, Roscommon, Offaly, Kilkenny, Sligo, Waterford, Louth, Leitrim, and Carlow, ensuring nationwide support.
A Significant Step for Animal Welfare in Ireland
This funding acknowledges the realities faced by animal welfare charities every day. Caring for animals responsibly requires time, resources, and stability. Government support of this scale allows organisations to focus on welfare standards rather than survival, improving conditions for animals while long-term solutions are pursued.
Final Word
This €6.4 million allocation represents a meaningful investment in animal welfare across Ireland. It supports organisations working quietly and consistently behind the scenes, offering care, safety, and stability to animals in need. For dogs waiting in kennels, foster homes, or temporary placements, this funding provides comfort, care, and breathing space while permanent futures are determined.
The Canine Report
By Philip Alain