The SPCA has reached a significant milestone, celebrating 75 years of animal welfare.
Ahead of the society’s anniversary on February 5, Boksburg SPCA manager Vicky Finnemore spoke to Boksburg Advertiser about their biggest achievements and future plans.
“The Boksburg SPCA has had a tremendous impact on the local community through outreach programmes that assist pet owners in underprivileged areas.
“We also use this opportunity to educate, with educating the youth being our main priority.”
Challenges
“Our biggest challenge has been the decline in public financial support. As the economy worsens, donations have dried up.
“Ten years ago, we had various pet food companies regularly donating food, and members of the public would drop off bags of dog and cat food, so there was never a need for us to purchase food for the pound animals.
“All of that has stopped and we’re now having to spend about R6 000 on pet food every month.”
Success stories that stand out
Finnemore said one of the biggest success stories was that of little Oliver, fondly known as Oli, a desperately sick dachshund-cross pup who was surrendered to the society in an oil-soaked bucket in May 2021.
“We’ve posted many rescue stories over the past five years that have garnered nationwide support, resulting in the rehabilitation and rehoming of hundreds of once-abused and neglected animals,” she added.
How has the SPCA worked with law enforcement and other organisations?
“The Boksburg SPCA inspectorate and staff always try to be as efficient as possible. We often assist the SAPS, EMPD, and other animal rescue organisations with situations involving animals, and in turn, they return the favour when we need help,” Finnemore added.
Public support of upmost importance
Finnemore reiterated that without public support the SPCA’s days are numbered.
“It is often misunderstood that the SPCA only deals with cats and dogs. Our mandate is to serve and protect every species of animal. Without our drivers collecting stray and unwanted animals and without our inspectors fighting cruelty 365 days a year, one has to ask: Who else is going to do it?”
Future plans
Finnemore said the society plans to expand its premises, kennels, and clinic.
“We want to improve our adoption and sterilisation rates. We aim to build an adoption centre that caters specifically for people looking to adopt a new pet. We would also like to employ and train more inspectors because cruelty must be stopped. We plan to expand our fundraising committee and encourage the public to sign up today.”
The Boksburg SPCA can be contacted on 011 916 5906/7, 067 409 4267, or 083 763 6311.
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