Petpals is bringing its franchise network and local community together in aid of PDSA, as the UK’s longest-established pet-care franchise continues its 25th anniversary celebrations with a new fundraising drive. The brand is aiming to raise £2,000 for the veterinary charity through a series of activities linked to Franchise Support Manager Tracey Dawber’s London Marathon challenge, with Petpals committing £500 directly to the cause.
Tracey, who is celebrating 20 years with Petpals this year, will take on the London Marathon for the fourth time in 2027. She will be running for PDSA, which provides free and low-cost veterinary services to pets whose owners may otherwise struggle to afford their care – making it a natural cause for the pet-care brand to champion.
“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 event will take place on 31st October, when Petpals will be the main sponsor of a Halloween charity raffle at The Clatford Arms in Goodworth Clatford – not far from the franchise HQ. Prizes have been donated by businesses from across Hampshire, bringing local companies and supporters together to help reach the £2,000 target.
The campaign will then reach franchisees from across the country at Petpals’ annual conference in January, with another charity raffle planned as part of the event. Petpals will provide the prizes, and it is hoped that the raffle will add around £500 to the total.
There is a personal connection behind the network’s involvement too. During her two decades with Petpals, Tracey has welcomed new business owners and remained a familiar source of guidance and reassurance as their businesses have developed.
“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,” added Kevin. “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 adds to a year of charitable activity across Petpals, with franchisees choosing causes that matter within their own communities as part of the silver anniversary celebrations. Most recently, Petpals Sefton was the main sponsor of Paws Along the Prom on 27th September in aid of Options charity. At HQ, Petpals is also continuing its support for The Three Bees Project by funding several new fences to help create much-needed animal enclosures.
For Petpals, the ambition is for that spirit to continue well beyond its anniversary year, carrying the same sense of care and connection into the next chapter of the business.
“A milestone like this naturally makes you think about what you want the next chapter to look like,” concluded Kevin. “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.” To support Tracey’s 2027 London Marathon challenge and help raise funds for PDSA, visit: https://2027tcslondonmarathon.enthuse.com/pf/tracey-dawber
