Colchester Pet Awards 2026
Welcome to the first ever Colchester Pet Awards 2026, celebrating meaningful pet-human stories from across the city and its surrounding communities. It’s an opportunity to recognise the extraordinary role animals play in our lives.
This is your chance to honour the bond you share with your pet and take pride in their story with your local community. The judges want to hear about all of your wonderful companions, whether they are furry, feathered or scaled.
For those who are grieving the loss of a beloved pet and still want a special way to honour them, I have also created an online space where you can share their photograph and a memory in tribute. Because loving an animal never really stops, even when they are no longer with us. Leave a tribute here.
Entries are open to pet owners living in the CO1 – CO7 postcode districts. If you live just outside this area but have a strong connection to Colchester, for example you work here, your vet is here, or your pet is well known within the local community, you are welcome to contact me by email to discuss eligibility.
By entering the Colchester Pet Awards, you agree that your name, your pet’s name, photograph and story may be published publicly as part of the awards. This may include use on the Ginger and Tails website, social media and in coverage from the Colchester Gazette.
If you’re ready to celebrate the pets who are part of your life today, read on to discover the five award categories.
THE AWARD CATEGORIES
Each category celebrates a different kind of pet-human story.
COMMUNITY AND CHARACTER AWARD
Sponsored by Level Best Enterprises
Celebrating animals whose character has made a meaningful difference to the people around them, whether through bravery, emotional support, resilience or a positive impact within their community.
RESCUE SUCCESS STORY AWARD
Sponsored by RSPCA Essex Mid & North Branch CIO
Celebrating rescued animals who have found safety, stability and happiness in a new home, and the people who helped them along the way.
BEHAVIOUR BREAKTHROUGH AWARD
Sponsored by The Mayne Veterinary Clinic
Recognising animals who have made meaningful progress in overcoming behavioural challenges with patience, understanding and dedication from their owners.
YOUNG HANDLER AWARD
Sponsored by The Colchester Vets
Celebrating children and teenagers who show exceptional kindness, responsibility and dedication in caring for an animal.
GOLDEN YEARS AWARD
Sponsored by Fat Cat Colchester
Honouring senior animals who have shared many years of companionship and the loving care they receive as they grow older.
All entries will be judged by an independent panel made up of professionals working in the local pet industry. To find out more about the judges, visit the Meet the Judges page.
If you’re not sure which award best fits your story, have a look at this handy guide.
The awards close for entries at 12pm on Saturday 6th June 2026 and winners will be announced late June.
Ready to enter? You can enter more than one category, but each entry must be unique.
Enter the awards