Petpals, the UK’s longest-established pet-care franchise, is marking its 25th anniversary by bringing its franchise network and local communities together to raise £2,000 for PDSA (People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals), a UK veterinary charity providing free and low-cost veterinary treatment to pets whose owners may otherwise struggle to afford essential care.
The fundraising campaign is linked to Franchise Support Manager Tracey Dawber’s London Marathon challenge, with Petpals contributing £500 directly to the campaign. Dawber, who is celebrating 20 years with Petpals this year, will run the London Marathon for the fourth time in 2027 in support of PDSA.
The cause closely aligns with Petpals’ focus on pet welfare and care.
“Anyone who works in pet care understands just how important the bond between people and their pets is,” said Kevin Thackrah, Director of Petpals. “Pets are part of the family, so the thought of somebody being unable to access the veterinary care they need is incredibly difficult. PDSA does vital work to help keep pets healthy and families together, which is why we’re so pleased to be supporting Tracey’s challenge.”
The next fundraising event will take place on October 31, when Petpals will sponsor a Halloween charity raffle at The Clatford Arms in Goodworth Clatford, near the company’s headquarters. Businesses across Hampshire have donated prizes for the event, bringing local companies and supporters into the campaign.
The fundraising drive will then extend across Petpals’ franchise network at its annual conference in January, where another charity raffle is planned. Petpals will provide the prizes, with the company expecting the event to contribute around £500 towards the £2,000 target.
Dawber’s role has also given the campaign a strong connection to Petpals’ franchise community. During her 20 years with the business, she has supported franchisees as they joined the network and developed their local businesses.
“Tracey has spent 20 years being there for our franchisees, so there’s something really special about everyone now having an opportunity to rally around her,” Thackrah said. “That willingness to be there for one another is a big part of the culture we’ve built. You might be running your own local business, but you’re never doing it entirely on your own.”
The PDSA campaign forms part of Petpals’ wider 25th-anniversary charitable activity, with franchisees supporting causes in their own communities throughout the year.
Petpals Sefton recently sponsored Paws Along the Prom on September 27 in aid of Options charity. At its headquarters, the business is also continuing its support for The Three Bees Project by funding new fencing to help create animal enclosures.
Founded 25 years ago, Petpals has built its franchise network around pet-care services, with franchisees operating local businesses across the UK. Its anniversary campaign is using the milestone not only to celebrate the brand’s history but also to reinforce its community-focused approach as it enters its next phase of growth.
“A milestone like this naturally makes you think about what you want the next chapter to look like,” Thackrah said. “For us, it’s about continuing to grow a business where people feel part of something, while never losing sight of the values that have got us this far. If we can make a positive difference along the way, that makes the journey all the more worthwhile.”
Petpals is also using its anniversary year to highlight opportunities for prospective franchise owners as the brand continues to develop its UK network.
