Catherine Hahn, a 71-year-old retired veterinary nurse from Winchester, has been honored for transforming the lives of pets and their owners through her decade-long volunteer work with the PDSA. Since 2014, she has delivered educational talks to more than 30,000 young people, teaching them about animal care, responsible ownership, and safety around pets.
The charity confirmed Hahn’s sessions reached nearly 6,000 children in 2025 alone, part of a wider PDSA initiative that engaged nearly 470,000 young learners across the UK that year. Her work spans primary schools to universities, adapting her message to resonate with each age group while maintaining a core focus on empathy and responsible pet care.
Key Points
- ✅ Hahn has volunteered with PDSA since 2014, delivering talks to over 30,000 children
- ⚡ In 2025 alone, she reached nearly 6,000 young people through her sessions
- 💡 Her workshops cover animal behavior, care routines, and pet safety for all age groups
Hahn’s journey with PDSA began after attending a charity event at Highclere Castle, where she first connected with the organization. What started as casual involvement quickly evolved into a full-fledged commitment, with Hahn taking on roles from administration to event support before establishing herself as a cornerstone of the charity’s education team.
Anna Baggott, a member of PDSA’s education team, praised Hahn’s contributions. “Volunteers like Catherine are the backbone of our work,” Baggott said. “She doesn’t just deliver facts—she creates moments that children remember for years. Her ability to connect with young learners, whether they’re six or sixteen, is unmatched. The impact she’s had on thousands of families is immeasurable.”
💡 Pro Tip
If you’re considering volunteering, tailor your approach to your audience. Hahn’s success stems from adapting complex topics like pet behavior into relatable, interactive lessons. Start small—even an hour a week can make a difference.
One of Hahn’s most memorable sessions came during a Remembrance Day workshop, where she highlighted animals awarded the PDSA Dickin Medal for bravery. The event left a lasting impression on students, reinforcing the bond between humans and animals in times of crisis. “It’s not just about teaching kids how to care for pets,” Hahn said. “It’s about fostering kindness and responsibility that lasts a lifetime.”
📋 By The Numbers
- 470,000 — Total number of UK children reached by PDSA’s education programs in 2025
- 11 years — Duration of Hahn’s continuous volunteer service with PDSA
Hahn’s dedication extends beyond public speaking. She has also supported behind-the-scenes efforts, from organizing materials to assisting at events, demonstrating her commitment to the organization’s mission. Her work has inspired other volunteers to step up, proving that even small contributions can create ripple effects in communities.
| Volunteer Role | Primary Focus | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Classroom Speaker | Pet care education | Reached 30,000+ children |
| Event Organizer | Charity fundraisers | Supported 15+ events |
| Administrative Support | Logistics and coordination | Streamlined team operations |
Reflecting on her journey, Hahn urged others to explore volunteering opportunities. “You don’t need a background in veterinary science to make a difference,” she said. “What matters is your willingness to show up, share your time, and care about the cause. The rewards—both for you and the community—are far greater than you might expect.”
- 📊 PDSA’s education programs reached 470,000 children in 2025, with Hahn contributing nearly 6,000 of those engagements
- 🔍 Hahn’s workshops are designed to leave a lasting impression, with schools reporting children discussing sessions days later
- ⚠️ Volunteering requires adaptability—Hahn tailors her message to different age groups, from primary schoolers to university students
For those inspired by Hahn’s story, PDSA continues to seek volunteers across the UK. Whether through education, event support, or administrative roles, opportunities exist for individuals from all backgrounds to contribute to the charity’s mission of promoting responsible pet ownership and animal welfare.
