Paws, Purpose and Partnership: Bonds That Heal and Empower

Within the Armed Forces community, support does not always come in uniform. Sometimes, it arrives on four legs with patience, instinct and an unwavering presence.

Animals play a unique and powerful role in the lives of many serving personnel, veterans and families. Through companionship, routine, trust and unconditional acceptance, they can offer comfort in times of transition, strength during recovery, and a renewed sense of purpose when it is needed most.

The Animal Partnership Award exists to honour these remarkable relationships and the individuals and organisations who make them possible.

Celebrating the Power of Animal Partnerships

This award recognises the unique relationships and companionship provided by animals, as well as the achievements of individuals or organisations engaged with animals that support and empower members of the Armed Forces community.

From assistance dogs and therapy animals to equine programmes, animal-assisted interventions and rescue partnerships, the impact of these relationships can be profound. They help rebuild confidence, support mental and physical wellbeing, and create pathways to independence and connection.

The judging panel will select three exceptional entries to progress to the final public vote, giving the wider community the opportunity to celebrate those whose work and partnerships inspire the most.

Connection That Transcends Words

Animals meet people where they are. They do not judge or question; they respond with consistency and care.

For many within the Armed Forces community these relationships can be life changing. They restore routine, encourage engagement with the world, and provide a sense of responsibility and belonging.

Behind every successful animal partnership is dedication, training and deep understanding. It’s work rooted in compassion and commitment.

What a Nomination Can Mean

Being nominated for the Animal Partnership Award is about more than recognition, it’s about validation.

For individuals and organisations delivering this support, a nomination affirms that their work matters. It raises awareness, builds credibility, and can help extend services to those who may benefit most.

For those whose lives have been changed by an animal partnership, the nomination process itself can be a powerful moment of reflection and gratitude.

Who Has Made a Difference Through Animals?

Take a moment to reflect.

• Who have you seen supported, empowered or transformed through an animal partnership?

• Which organisation or individual has created opportunities for healing, confidence or connection through animals?

• Which partnership stands out as truly life-enhancing?

Often, the most impactful work happens quietly. Your nomination can help ensure that these stories are seen and celebrated.

In Partnership with Pets at Home

The Animal Partnership Award is proudly delivered in partnership with Pets at Home, an organisation that actively supports the Armed Forces community through a number of charitable initiatives, including its ongoing support for the Royal British Legion through the Poppy Appeal.

Pets at Home has a long-standing history of working with animal‑assisted initiatives, recognising the positive role animals can play in wellbeing, companionship and recovery. Its support focuses on fundraising, awareness, and enabling access to programmes that help strengthen the bond between people and animals.

Pets at Home remains committed to being an inclusive employer and creating a supportive environment for veterans, reservists and military families across its workforce. 

Celebrating Bonds That Change Lives

Animal partnerships remind us that healing and empowerment can come in many forms. By nominating an individual or organisation for the Armed Forces Community Awards Animal Partnership Award, you are helping to honour compassion in action and celebrating relationships that restore confidence, dignity and hope across the Armed Forces community.

Now is the time to recognise the bonds that change lives, who will you nominate?

Nominate Today