Individuals, organizations, or projects that advocate for animal welfare can apply for the German Animal Welfare Award or be nominated by others between April 1 and May 17, 2026. The German Animal Welfare Federation will present the award—supported by the pet food brands Whiskas and Pedigree—on November 19 at a festive gala at the Humboldt Carré in Berlin.
“With the German Animal Welfare Award, we honor volunteers who dedicate their time, energy, hearts, and even their money to those who have no voice of their own. These are individuals who fight for animals, never give up despite all odds, and thus become role models,” says Thomas Schröder, President of the German Animal Welfare Federation.
Anyone wishing to nominate themselves, other dedicated individuals, or organizations and initiatives that are particularly committed to animal welfare for the German Animal Welfare Award may submit their nomination using the form available on the German Animal Welfare Federation’s website at www.tierschutzbund.de/bewerbung-tierschutzpreis. The application should highlight what makes the nominee’s personal commitment unique or which exceptional projects or areas of focus make an organization or animal welfare initiative particularly deserving of the award. The deadline for submissions is May 17, 2026. Following a review process, a jury will select the nominees and winners in two meetings. Among the four-member jury is Stefanie Hertel, animal welfare ambassador for the German Animal Welfare Federation.
The winner of the German Animal Welfare Award will receive 6,000 euros for their own animal welfare work, donated by Whiskas and Pedigree. Prizes, each worth 3,000 euros, are also awarded in the categories “Lifetime Achievement,” “People’s Choice,” “Voice for Animals,” and “Rising Stars.” Last year, actor Hannes Jaenicke was among those honored for his longstanding commitment to nature and animal welfare.
