International Aid for the Protection & Welfare of Animals (IAPWA): Nicky's Story

Nicky Stevens first established International Aid for the Protection & Welfare of Animals (IAPWA) as a UK charity in 2009. Their purpose? To provide a better future for animals in need. Since then, she and the team have done incredible work rescuing tens of thousands of cats and dogs across two continents.

“What began as a desire to help one stray dog in the rainforests of Borneo, has since expanded to helping over 30,000 dogs and cats who have needed the veterinary support and lifeline we provide. We currently focus on 3 core projects in Borneo, Penang Island and Romania, with a range of additional support programs worldwide.”

Nicky’s inspiration to create IAPWA came from her background as a Veterinary Nurse and devotion to all things furry.

“For as long as I can remember I’ve always loved animals having grown up with them as part of my family. From my time spent as a Veterinary Nurse, to volunteer placements caring for a range of species, animals have been a big part of my life.  Through my role at IAPWA, I manage our UK and International teams remotely, from either the UK or from one of the countries within which we work. I feel extremely proud of the difference IAPWA has made and excited about our future plans to develop, through which we can make an even bigger impact for those in need.”

Since joining TrustedHousesitters near the start of 2023, Nicky has been able to become a pet sitter whilst supporting the charity.

“I became a TrustedHousesitter earlier this year which blends perfectly with my role, ensuring pets get the care they need during their parents vacation, whilst providing many additional benefits to both myself and IAPWA. From being able to find accommodation when I visit our teams overseas to the affiliate program available, TrustedHousesitters offers IAPWA the opportunity to save and generate funds.”

Along with being able to continue her incredible work and fulfill her pet craving, Nicky recognizes how aligned TrustedHousesitters are with IAPWA’s main values.

“As an animal lover and through my role, it’s important that an organization is aligned with our values and standards for animal welfare. Through TrustedHousesitters standard and premium pet parent, sitter and combined memberships, there are free video calls with vets anytime this is needed along with dedicated member support. Sitters are also verified to ensure pet parents can connect with them in confidence, with information relating to these checks clearly visible on their profile.

Sadly, the work we do at IAPWA often involves seeing tragic cases of abuse and neglect. With so many dogs and cats in need and not enough good homes available, many face a difficult life. Due to this, compassion fatigue is rife within this sector. For me, spending time with pets who are loved and cared for balances the negative I see every day and inspires me to keep pushing forward to do all we can for those who aren’t so fortunate, regardless of how challenging that can be at times.”

As well as making new furry friends, Nicky has created new bonds and friendships with other pet parents and animal lovers.

“Through TrustedHousesitters, I’ve met wonderful pet parents who have helped to restore my faith in our love for animals. [...] I’ve been so impressed with how important it has been to the pet parents to make sure their valued family member has the right sitter and that all their needs are met in the comfort of their own home.”

Nicky recently completed a Dog First Aid and Emergency Canine Care Course to improve her role as a pet sitter. She would highly encourage others to do the same!

If you would like to find out more about the amazing work done by Nicky and IAPWA, as well as, support animals in need, there are numerous ways you can help out:

• Follow on www.facebook.com/iapwa and visit www.iapwa.org to sign up to their newsletter
• Contact the team at fundraising@iapwa.org to join their Community Fundraising Team to help raise funds and awareness in your area 
• Contact challenges@iapwa.org to find out about the range of Overseas Challenges from climbing Mount Kilimanjaro to meeting the Borneo Team and trekking through the rainforests to find orangutang
• Join their UK ‘I love Hiking and Dogs’ Facebook group to connect with other dog loving hikers across the UK, post about doggy adventures and join some of their year-round events www.facebook.com/groups/ilovehikinganddogs 

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