Image credit: RSPCA South Australia
RSPCA SA is closing its Port Lincoln shelter on August 31st to shift focus to a new strategy aimed at improving animal welfare. Instead of rehoming animals through shelters, they will offer community-based services such as free or subsidised desexing, vaccinations, microchipping, health checks, and pet care advice.
The decision to close the shelter is influenced by a significant drop in the number of stray animals, making the shelter financially unsustainable. In the past year, only eight cats were taken into care compared to previous years.
RSPCA SA CEO, Marcus Gehrig, and Head of Animal Operations, Billy Tubman, recently met with the Port Lincoln team to discuss the closure:
“This is a difficult day, especially for our wonderful Port Lincoln team, some of whom have been with us for a long time,” Marcus Gehrig said.
“We’re proud of what we’ve achieved in our many years of operating this facility in Port Lincoln.
“Our local team cared for almost 2000 animals in the past five years, giving as many as possible the chance to be fostered or adopted into loving new homes.
“Our people have made a real difference in the community through their dedication and compassion for animals and we sincerely thank them.”
The City of Port Lincoln Council has acknowledged the financial challenges faced by the RSPCA, including rising costs and fewer animals being surrendered:
“Unfortunately, the situation for the RSCPA is not sustainable and a business decision has been made to proceed with the closure,” Chief Executive Officer, Eric Brown, said.
“Even so, the RSPCA will continue to provide its inspectorate service to the Port Lincoln area in responding to cruelty reports and will continue to scope and develop their community outreach programs for Port Lincoln and surrounds.
“Despite these challenges, we remain committed to ensuring the welfare of stray animals in our community and we will work closely with the RSPCA Whyalla team to continue providing care and rehoming services.”
RSPCA SA will continue to respond to animal cruelty reports and care for animals through its Whyalla and O’Halloran Hill centres. In its final month, the Port Lincoln shelter will operate as a retail outlet for pet supplies and an adoption centre for remaining animals.
RSPCA SA plans to collaborate with the City of Port Lincoln on future animal welfare initiatives and continue providing support through new community programs across the Eyre Peninsula.
For more on RSPCA SA, click here.
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