PDSA founder Maria Dickin CBE instituted the PDSA Dickin Medal on 2 December 1943, at the height of World War II. A tireless campaigner for animal welfare, she was determined to raise the status of animals in society and improve their care.
The Medal recognises outstanding acts of gallantry and devotion to duty displayed by animals serving with the Armed Forces or Civil Defence units in any theatre of war, throughout the world.
Regarded globally as the animals’ Victoria Cross, the PDSA Dickin Medal is as inspirational and relevant today as it was 75 years ago.
