Cherished Pets Foundation

Cherished Pets Foundation delivers interconnected veterinary and social services that harness the power of the Human-Animal Bond to improve the health and wellbeing of vulnerable people and their pets. Their vision is a world where the Human-Animal Bond is recognised and supported for its role in creating connected, healthy communities. Founded in Geelong in 2015, Cherished Pets Foundation was established and is led by Dr Alicia Kennedy, a veterinarian of 40 years, 2024 Churchill Fellow, and current Kenneth Myer Innovation Fellow.

For many vulnerable Australians, including older people, those in crisis, and people facing homelessness or family violence, pets are a primary source of connection and stability, yet they can also become a barrier to accessing help. Cherished Pets Foundation is uniquely placed to address this gap, sitting at the intersection of veterinary care and social services through its pioneering Human-Animal Bond Practitioner model.

Last financial year, Cherished Pets Foundation supported 349 Crisis Care beneficiaries and 36 Home Care Assistance clients, delivered 972 nights of pet respite care, and grew its referring partner network by 50% to 27 social service agencies. Their 37 volunteers contributed 2,300 hours of support, rated 4.87 out of 5 by the people they helped.

Current priorities include strengthening the Crisis Care and Home Care Assistance Programs, deepening cross-sector partnerships with housing, health, and family violence agencies, and embedding pet-inclusive practice into broader social policy. Funding will directly sustain frontline service delivery, ensuring no one has to choose between their own safety and their pet’s wellbeing.

WEBSITE