ANIMAL ambassadors

These much-loved stars are championing creatures great and small

- DONNA HARDIE

As the RSPCA celebrates 200 years of transforming the lives of at-risk animals, its Animal Kindness Index reveals that we're a caring nation whose support for animal welfare ranks as one of our top three concerns after mental and physical health.

Encouragingly, 71% of those surveyed are identifying as animal lovers, while 80% of adults, and 86% of children and young people have taken action to help animals in the last 12 months - from sharing a missing pet post on social media to donating to a charity.

Celebrity support is a huge boost for amplifying awareness and fundraising efforts. Take cover star Penny Lancaster, who photographed showbiz pals including Sir Elton John with his pooch for her Pet Pawtraits calendar in aid of the People's Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA).

'Animals and photography are two of my biggest passions,' Penny says. 'I wanted to help people who can't afford to pay vets' fees.'

Here, we applaud the other bighearted celebs who pledge their kindness year-round.

Dame Lesley Lawson

Also known as Twiggy, the model and actor lends her support to anti-fur campaigns for PETA and to the Society for Protection of Animals Abroad (SPANA), a charity that improves the welfare of working animals who carry heavy loads in sweltering heat in the world's most impoverished communities. 'Through providing vital veterinary care and training for owners, the charity is helping working animals overseas to have a happier and healthier life,' explains Twiggy.

+ spana.org

DID YOU KNOW? Twiggy is also a patron of The British Hedgehog Preservation Society (britishhedgehogs.org.uk).