Financial pressures mount on the SPCA
While many of the operational aspects of running the Boksburg SPCA have been addressed and much of its credibility restored, financial pressures remain a problem.
This was revealed during the society’s AGM held on June 22, at St Dominic’s Catholic Church Hall.
Boksburg SPCA chairperson, John Penrose, presented his overview report for the year ending March 31.
“Operational costs are outweighing income and as economic hardships are being experienced by more and more people; donations are declining which was an integral part of our (Boksburg SPCA) income stream,” said Penrose.
The Boksburg SPCA’s income decreased by 4.2 per cent, while expenses increased by 19 per cent.
This resulted in a R516 000 loss (after grant income) versus a R189 000 profit in the prior year.
Fundraising and operational income showed an increase in 2015/16 to 2016/17 from the second-hand shop, medical clinic and new homes found.
Going forward, the society is looking at possible SMS donations and special fund-raising drives.
The Boksburg SPCA receives a monthly grant around R26 000 from the Ekurhuleni Municipality.
“Although we are the official government pound, this – unfortunately – only covers less than 10 per cent of our expenses,” said Penrose.
During the past financial year the society continued to repair the pound facilities with electrical work amongst other projects being completed and as per the previous year, there were many donations by local businesses.
This work has allowed their handyman, Paul Mondlane, to keep the grounds and buildings in an ongoing good state of repair.
Penrose said the SPCA’s vehicle fleet continues to age and is a challenge to the society going forward.
As per Penrose’s comments in last year’s report, the Boksburg SPCA’s clinic is showing signs of age and multi-faceted upgrade of their X-ray and operating facilities is required.
“Some upgrades have been done but we need to further improve the clinic’s overall running,” explained Penrose.
The following statistics show exactly how busy the society is, thus, the need for this service is growing at an alarming rate.
Dogs: 1 131 brought in as strays and 1 753 surrendered; 471 homed; 219 re-claimed; 656 sterilised for underprivileged pet owners.
Cats: 785 brought in as strays and 808 surrendered; 44 homed; six re-claimed; 373 sterilised for underprivileged pet owners.
According to Penrose, these numbers are similar to the prior year.
He added the society had to respond to many cruelty complaints which seem to be on the rise.
“While this has not been the best year financially, the society has continued to run well despite upward pressures on complaints, strays, etc.,” said Penrose.
“One of the challenges I think we face is the prospect of societies joining forces to improve operational efficiencies, reduce costs and overall provide a better service to the animals that are so much in need of care and protection.”
