Cork animal charities to get €800k in grants

Almost €800,000 has been allocated to animal welfare charities in Cork as part of the animal welfare grants programme funding announced by the Department of Agriculture, Food, and the Marine.

Thirteen Cork organisations are to benefit under the 2025 animal welfare grants programme.

They include The Donkey Sanctuary (€320,000), Cork SPCA (€156,950), Cork Dog Action Welfare Group (DAWG) (€69,975), Pauline’s Rescue (€46,050), West Cork Animal Welfare Group (€40,725), Cork Cat Action Trust (€30,000), Munster Lost & Found Pet Helpline (€30,000), Community Cats Network (€26,000), Homeless Animal Rescue Team (HART) (€18,000), Cork Animal Care Society (€13,500), Rehoming Cork Pets (€13,050), Wildlife Rescue Cork (€12,000), and Rural Animal Welfare Resources (Rawr) (€7,000).

Cork North West Fine Gael TD John Paul O’Shea said the funding is a boost for Cork-based animal welfare groups, which work to protect and care for animals throughout the county.

“This is a very significant investment in animal welfare, and I am particularly pleased to see the strong level of support for Cork organisations, who provide invaluable services in our communities.

“These groups are often the first line of support for abandoned, neglected and injured animals, and this funding will help them to continue their vital work.”

Mr O’Shea said these organisations go far beyond rescue and rehoming, and play a crucial role in educating the public, promoting responsible pet ownership and preventing animal welfare issues before they arise.

Mr O’Shea added: “A pet can bring enormous joy to a household, but it is a long term commitment. I would strongly encourage anyone considering getting a pet to think carefully and where possible, to adopt responsibly through one of our excellent Cork-based charities.”