A Lifelong Passion: Hampshire Woman Inspires Thousands Through Pet Education

In a heartwarming testament to community service and animal welfare, Catherine Hahn, a dedicated volunteer from Hampshire, is being celebrated during Volunteers’ Week for her exceptional contributions to the leading veterinary charity, PDSA. Over the past decade, Catherine has educated more than 30,000 children about responsible pet ownership and animal welfare, fostering a future generation of compassionate pet owners.

Dedication to Education

Catherine, who has spent much of her career as a veterinary nurse, began her journey with PDSA in 2014 after attending a charity event at Highclere Castle. Since then, she has taken on numerous roles, with a significant focus on delivering educational talks to young people across the UK. Her engaging sessions cover essential topics such as pet care, animal behavior, and the overall importance of animal welfare.

A Lasting Impact

In 2025 alone, Catherine reached nearly 6,000 children as part of PDSA’s extensive educational programme, which touched nearly 470,000 young lives nationwide. She expressed her joy in connecting with eager learners, particularly primary school children, who leave her talks with newfound knowledge and excitement about caring for animals. "It's wonderful when schools tell me children were still talking about the session days later," Catherine remarked, highlighting the profound impact her work has on her audience.

Recognizing the Value of Volunteers

Anna Baggott from PDSA’s education team emphasized the critical role that volunteers like Catherine play in educating young people. "Her dedication has helped thousands of children learn how to interact safely and responsibly with pets," Baggott stated, noting that Catherine’s enthusiasm makes a memorable difference in each session. The collaborative efforts of volunteers have allowed PDSA to educate children on pet safety and instill values of kindness and respect for animals.

Join the Movement

Catherine’s story is a shining example of how one individual can make a significant difference in their community. She encourages others to consider volunteering, stating, "We should all try to make a meaningful contribution to society and, in doing so, you gain so much yourself." Inspired by her story? Learn more about volunteering opportunities at PDSA and be part of this rewarding cause.