Inspector - RSPCA Western Australia

Great&Small
Western Australia
SUMMER 2014-15
Christmas
gift ideas
Inspector
Donna
Bunbury Inspector Profile
Responsible
pet ownership
RSPCA WA (Inc.) is the state’s oldest, largest and leading animal welfare charity, dedicated to improving the lives of all animals throughout the state.
C ntent
Western Australia
PROJECT:
GUARDIAN
ANGEL
This is Ren
4
CEO’s Welcome
12
President’s Report
5
Tips for Summer
14
Approved Farming Scheme
6
Latest News
16
Community Fundraising
8
RSPCA in the courts
18
Christmas Wishes
10
Meet an Inspector
19
Volunteers
11
Loki’s Road to Recovery
20
Event wrap up
22
Support our Campaigns
24
Adoptions
When Ren was found collapsed, alone and terrified,
he was desperate. Make a donation to RSPCA’s Project
Guardian Angel today and you’ll become a Guardian
Angel for one special animal in the RSPCA WA Shelter
this Christmas. It’s also a wonderful gift idea for
friends and loved ones.
Would you be a Guardian Angel
for a little dog like Ren?
DONATE
NOW
rspcaguardianangel.com.au
or call 9209 9300
Western Australia
RSPCA WA (Inc.) is the state’s oldest, largest and
leading animal welfare charity, dedicated to improving
the lives of all animals throughout the state.
We believe all animals deserve
the five freedoms
1
Freedom from hunger and thirst
To improve the welfare of animals through leadership,
collaboration with stakeholders and the provision of
quality services.
2
Freedom from discomfort
3
Freedom from pain, injury and disease
VISION
4
Freedom to express normal behaviour
5
Freedom from fear and distress
MISSION
All animals are accepted as sentient beings treated
with dignity, compassion and respect.
RSPCA WA Great & Small Summer
3
RESPONSIBLE PET OWNERSHIP
CEO’s
Welc
me
Dear supporter
Welcome to the first edition of the new look RSPCA WA
Great & Small magazine.
This quarterly publication has been produced with
the assistance of our wonderful pro-bono advertising
agency, Adcorp. This magazine is an important part of
how we want to regularly communicate and I hope you
like the new design and layout, as well as the topical
and informative content.
This edition features a range of interesting and engaging
stories, including an insightful piece from our President,
Lynne Bradshaw, in relation to recreational hunting.
In addition you will find stories covering RSPCA’s
Approved Farming Scheme and an introduction to our
Inspector in Bunbury.
Recently, we published our 2013/14 Annual Report, in
which we highlighted the work and achievements of the
Society. In summary, the year saw an unprecedented
demand for our services; we received more than 20,000
calls to our new animal cruelty call centre and our
Inspectors provided outstanding service to the community
in terms of education, compliance and enforcement
activities, investigating more than 6,100 cruelty
incidents, involving 11,100 animals across the State.
All of this has been made possible by the generous
support of the community and we thank you.
More animals than ever before were cared for daily
by our dedicated team of staff and volunteers, which
equates to 129,000 days of animal care, a 21% increase
on the previous year. Our veterinary clinic carried out
just over 5,000 clinical procedures and 4,700 routine
veterinary treatments.
As you will appreciate, this comes at great expense, and
we have had to continually review our costs to ensure
we are achieving the best animal welfare outcomes
from our limited resources.
Tips f
r Summer
Our Australian summer presents a number of potential animal welfare
issues should owners not be vigilant in monitoring their animals and taking
interest in their health and wellbeing.
Sadly our Inspectors investigate far too many reports
of animals not even receiving the basic needs of
shelter and fresh food and water. But on top of that, the
summer months can present other issues that animal
owners should be aware of;
Flies are an annoying yet iconic symbol of the Australian
summer. All animals have potential to be susceptible
to flystrike.
The Society remains heavily reliant on the support of
the Western Australian community to provide more
than 90% of the income needed to deliver our services
and programs, and reach thousands of animals in need.
Prosecutions have included incidents where dogs have
been infested with maggots after their owners have
failed to check on them. A terrible recent case involved
a neglected dog that was found dying, with maggots
found in its anus.
Now more than ever we need your support. Times are
challenging for people financially, but I urge you (if you
don’t already) to please consider RSPCA WA when
deciding which charities you support. Every dollar
counts and you can help us make a real difference to
the lives of animals.
It can take only days for dog food left out in the sun
to get infested with maggots during summer time, so
it’s important to ensure food scraps are removed and
bowls cleaned to ensure animals’ food is not breeding
bacteria or other nasties!
Rabbits and guinea pigs should have their bottoms
checked and hutches cleaned daily to avoid problems
associated with flies.
Simple modifications need to be made, even with fit and
healthy dogs when exercising during summer. Owners
need to observe and modify their pets exercise routine
on hot days.
Many dogs will continue to run or chase a ball to please
their owners however in hot weather a gentle walk
around the park is more suitable. If your dog needs
more activity to keep it entertained, consider making
them work for their food with food presented in a cool
iceblock. It will not only keep them cool but entertain
their mind too.
Certainly dogs should not be walked during the heat
of day as the pads on their paws can burn on a hot
footpath. If the path is hot to the touch of your hand
then it’s too hot for your dog’s paws!
In closing I’d like to wish everyone a very safe and happy
Christmas – with your family, friends and animals!
David van Ooran
A FEW POINTS TO REMEMBER
Conversations can begin
with a simple “Hawo”
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Don’t exercise your animal in the heat of
day. Modify its exercise during summer
Keep food and water fresh DAILY and keep
it out of the sun
Check over your animals every day, take
notice of their condition
Ensure there is a cool area for your animal
to retreat to on a hot day
Keep an eye out for parasites such as fleas
Maintain regular vet checks
Do not leave your dog in a hot car
Proudly supporting RSPCA WA.
4
A few simple actions can make sure all our
animals are kept safe and happy in summer!
RSPCA WA Great & Small Summer
5
What’s
H T
what’s
N T
HOT
NOT
Justice for animals was served through the courts
with 24 prosecutions by RSPCA Inspectors resulting
in a collective total of 208 years of prohibition orders
handed down to offenders by magistrates. This
ensures for many years, no more animals will suffer
in the hands of these people and sends a strong
message that animal cruelty is not tolerated.
HOT
Diner demand creates Australian first with the
launch of Australia’s first ‘Humane Food Region’ in
the Swan Valley - set to cater for the ever growing
number of consumers demanding higher welfare
produce. Make sure you get out to the region this
summer and support the businesses who have
made the right choice!
The release of further shocking images of the treatment of
Australian animals suffering in the Middle East has still not
prompted action by the Federal Government or industry to
prevent ongoing cruelty. Exporter LSS is again exposed for
breaches to the ESCAS system designed to protect animals.
The Australian public deserves to know how the government
plans to deal with these breaches.
NOT
The harsh reality of the price some horses pay for
our entertainment was highlighted with the tragic
deaths of Admire Rakti and Araldo on Melbourne Cup
Day. Horse racing is a sport that pushes horses to
their physical limit. Research indicates that whipping
horses doesn’t make them go any faster.
Call for a ban on whips now: rspca.org.au/whips
Visit choosewisely.org.au for info on how to choose
higher welfare products.
NOT
HOT
6
Recent statistics released show that 61% of dogs and
76% of cats entering RSPCA WA’s rehoming program
were not sterilised and needed to be desexed prior
to adoption demonstrating too many owners are not
taking a responsible approach to pet ownership and
putting their pet at risk of unwanted pregnancy.
Fast food giants McDonalds
and Subway individually
announce their plans to
cease their use of cage
eggs. Woolworths also got
cracking announcing they
will not stock cartons of
cage eggs by 2018 showing consumer power can
make changes for the benefit animals. A welcome
step forward for hens across Australia!
LET’S BE FRIENDS!
See page 14-15 for more info on
RSPCA’s Approved Farming Scheme.
Join the conversation and stay in touch with the
latest news & inspiring stories from RSPCA WA.
facebook.com/rspcawa
twitter.com/rspcawa
RSPCA WA Great & Small Summer
7
RSPCA in the
Too often we see situations which would have been
prevented, had the owner sought veterinary attention.
Seeing how an animal has suffered through an initially
preventable condition is frustrating.
c urts
CASE IN HIGHLIGHT
RSPCA Inspectors attended a property after a complaint
was received about a skinny dog with bones protruding.
On arrival Inspectors immediately seized the dog which
was taken for urgent veterinary treatment. The treating
vet determined that the 12 year old Boxer cross dog
had diabetes that had been left untreated. The dog
was extremely emaciated with severe muscle wastage,
mammary tumours, alopecia and other secondary
conditions related to the untreated diabetes.
Investigating reports of animal cruelty is at the forefront of RSPCA’s work
with RSPCA WA Inspectors investigating over 6100 reports of animal cruelty
in the last financial year. The vast majority of investigations are resolved
through working with owners and equipping them to be able to meet the
needs of animals in their care.
Through your support and support from our extremely
valued pro-bono legal panel, since January, 26
successful prosecutions have been made. Community
expectations to seek justice for cruelty to animals is
understandably high.
CASE IN HIGHLIGHT
In September, an experienced horse owner was fined
$16,000 and prohibited from owning or being in charge
of any animal for 15 years after pleading guilty to animal
cruelty charges.
The Wanneroo man pleaded guilty to eight charges
relating to severe neglect of three Arab horses and a pony.
“Diabetes is a manageable condition and this dog
suffered because she didn’t receive the treatment she
needed to give her the best quality of life when she
needed it most” said Chief Inspector Amanda Swift.
The animals were seized by Inspectors in February
2013 after grave concerns for their health.
A black stallion, which was emaciated so badly he
collapsed three times during the initial treatment has
since made a remarkable recovery after 12 months of
intensive rehabilitation by RSPCA.
The horse’s owner claimed he was unable to afford food
however he would not consider giving the remaining
horses away. He also refused to surrender the horses
to RSPCA until months in the investigation.
Chief Inspector Amanda Swift said “the stallion in this
case is one of the worst cases of horse neglect I have
seen in 15 years with RSPCA in both WA and the UK.
The treatment of these horses is disgraceful and his
actions completely inexcusable.”
The good news is that against the odds, two horses
were successfully rehabilitated, are now in fantastic
condition and in loving homes.
Additionally, the 15 year
prohibition order ensures
that other horses will be
saved from neglect for a
very long time.
There can be no excuse for passing off conditions as
‘old age’. Animals still can have a happy and healthy
life in their senior years. Old age is not an excuse for
letting your animals suffer.”
The dog’s owner received a $5000 fine and was
prohibited from owning any animal for five years.
Sadly, the dog was euthanized because the side effects
of neglect had left her with irreversible damage.
“Regular veterinary visits are paramount for all
animals and especially for older animals. Elderly
animals require keen observation from their owners.
DONATE NOW
This confronting side to animal welfare sometimes
however results in an owner being prosecuted and
this year has been a particularly busy one for RSPCA
bringing offenders to justice for the animals.
When questioned initially, the owner claimed he
had taken the dog to the vet however investigations
revealed that was not the case. The owner later told
the Inspector that he was aware the dog had diabetes
however had not sought veterinary treatment.
Rehabilitation, care and justice for
animals is only possible with your help.
Thank you for your ongoing support.
To make a donation and protect
animals from abuse phone 9209 9300
or visit rspcawa.asn.au to make
a secure donation online.
TAKE ACTION
If you feel strongly about preventing cruelty to animals, please, be a voice
for animals in the community; encourage people you know to speak up for
animals, raise awareness by sharing stories on Facebook, always report
animal cruelty and whenever you can, please support your RSPCA.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
RSPCA WA would like to gratefully acknowledge the
generous support of our pro bono lawyers and barristers:
Law firms: Corrs Chambers Westgarth, DLA Piper,
Herbert Smith Freehills, Jackson McDonald, King &
Wood Mallesons, Minter Ellison, Murfett Legal, Squire
Patton Boggs, SRB Legal, WFI
8
Barristers: Max Beckerling, Natasha Breach, Simon
Freitag, David Garnsworthy, Edward Greaves, Tim
Hammond, Matthew Howard SC, Neil Morissey,
Elizabeth Needam, Lisa Tovey, Ian Weldon
RSPCA WA Great & Small Summer
9
“I love being down south and
I really enjoy what I do.”
Inspector
D nna
Since joining the RSPCA 12 months ago as a General Inspector, Donna Pead
has travelled thousands of kilometres working on nearly 400 animal welfare
issues involving companion animals and commercial livestock.
Based in Bunbury, Donna covers a vast area of the
State from Augusta and Margaret River in the south,
to Williams, Narrogin and Wagin in the east and as far
north as Yarloop. She is the only RSPCA Inspector for
the whole region.
While she finds the role challenging at times, Donna
says she would not wish for a better or more interesting
job. And, she says, her previous work as an inspector
with the Department of Agriculture and Food helped
prepare her for her work with the RSPCA.
“One of the main differences is that as an RSPCA
Inspector we get more face to face involvement in what
can be rather complex situations with people and their
animals,” said Donna.
“Sometimes the situation can be confronting for the
animal owner as well as for me. Animal owners may be
shocked when I arrive and tell them that members of the
public have complained to the RSPCA about how they are
treating their animals.”
10
Donna aims to work with animal owners to get
improvements in animal welfare and she has so far
obtained positive results without having to prosecute.
“Most livestock owners just need a bit of a push to
make them realize that they need to step up and
provide more feed for their stock,” she said.
But, is there a downside to the job?
“Occasionally I wish some people would realise that
because they report what they think is cruelty or
neglect to the RSPCA that we can just walk up and
take the animal away in every case,” she said.
“Inspectors work under the Animal Welfare Act and
there are well documented processes we need to follow
– we have to be objective, regardless of what we may
think personally.”
“But, that’s really a minor point, I love being down
south and I really enjoy what I do.”
L
ki’s
Road to recovery
In May 2014, thanks to the keen eye of a local Ranger,
RSPCA Inspector Kylie responded to a call in Waroona
where a male Rottweiler had been left abandoned
at a property.
There she found poor Loki, left in the backyard with no
one, and no food or water.
It was clear that Loki was in real need and he was seized
immediately and brought to the shelter at Malaga for care.
Loki was examined by our vets and found to be
underweight with conjunctivitis in both eyes and a
chronic skin infection. He was covered in fleas and his
front teeth were worn down to the pulp. Poor Loki had
been in extreme discomfort for some time.
Investigations found the owner had gone away on a
family matter and the person who had been asked to
come and feed the dog had also since gone away.
Loki was immediately started on veterinary treatment
with antibiotics, special diet, food supplements and flea
treatment and baths. In fact, due to the chronic state
and severity of his skin disease it took over 60 baths and
many months to get the condition back under control.
Once Loki was recovered he then went for surgery to
remove his badly worn teeth and also to be castrated.
Not only did Loki need medical care but he also
struggled with his interactions. Loki seemed like a dog
who had done nothing more than run up and down
behind a fence. Not used to people or other dogs he
would growl if anyone tried to handle him.
With dedicated positive reinforcement training from our
Dog Behaviour team, Loki responded to being retrained
and learned to enjoy being handled by people and now
has also enjoyed many a playdate with other dogs in
the shelter. What a recovery!
When Loki’s owner returned they admitted they could
no longer care for Loki and he was surrendered to
RSPCA where over four months later, he is now up
for adoption!
We are so pleased for Loki that, because of your support,
he has a second chance to find a caring forever family.
Want to know more about Loki?
Visit adoptapet.com.au
RSPCA WA Great & Small Summer
11
Animals are sometimes chased
to the point of exhaustion and then
killed with methods that do not
cause a quick and painless death.
President’s
Rep rt
Don’t let our National Parks become shooting galleries
In August, I appeared on behalf of the RSPCA before
a WA Parliamentary committee inquiring into whether
recreational hunting should be allowed on public land in
Western Australia.
I am deeply concerned that this is even being considered
by our Members of Parliament.
The RSPCA does not support the killing of animals
for sport.
Hunting by amateurs has the potential to result in
significant animal suffering. Animals are sometimes
chased to the point of exhaustion and then killed
with methods that do not cause a quick and painless
death. Animals may be injured but escape to die slowly,
some are chased long distances by dogs not properly
controlled and dependent young can be left abandoned.
Although some hunters may have the skills, knowledge
and motivation to minimise the suffering of their prey,
many do not, and it is inevitable that some animals will
endure pain and distress.
The argument from those who are pushing for hunting
in public land say there is an economic benefit in
recreational hunting in state or national parks and claim
there is an added benefit of reducing feral or pest species.
RSPCA believes that only authorised government
agencies and their representatives, operating under
strictly controlled guidelines, should be authorised to
hunt feral or pest species in an attempt to reduce their
negative impacts, for example where they are found to
be causing environmental degradation, loss of livestock
or have a detrimental effect on native fauna. In such
cases, only the most humane methods available should
be used and this is usually shooting by experienced
professional shooters working under supervision to a
properly organised plan.
In WA, amateur hunting is currently limited to feral
animals on private property with a landholder’s
permission. There is no hunting permit or fee required
and no test of competency for those involved in hunting.
12
Proponents of recreational hunting say their activities
contribute to feral animal control but their methods
have been shown time and time again to be ineffective
and inhumane. Those pushing for it to happen in WA
also claim it has been successful in other States.
However, there is a significant amount of evidence from
other States to show that it is not effective and can
lead to cruelty.
In New South Wales, recreational hunting in national
parks was approved a few years ago and the result
has been a complete shemozzle. The then NSW State
Government established a Game Council of NSW to
represent the interests of hunters, oversee the licensing
system and enforce the Gaming Act. This was a result
of a deal with the Shooters and Fishers Party which held
the balance of power in the Upper House at the time.
However, the NSW Game Council was abolished last
year following years of dysfunctional administration
of amateur hunting on public land. The Game Council
head, Greg McFarland, had to stand down after being
convicted of illegal hunting by shooting a feral goat on
private land without the consent of the land owner. The
court was told that the goat was chased by the amateur
hunting party from public land onto the privately
owned farm and fences were damaged in the process.
Apparently, the hunters were determined to kill the goat
to souvenir its “trophy horns.”
As well, an independent review commissioned by the
NSW State Government found that the Game Council
was dysfunctional, deeply embedded in politics as a
result of its creation out of the influence and power of the
Shooters and Fishers Party and lacked accountability.
Amateur hunting in NSW forests was suspended last
year and is now open again in some State forests. A trial
is currently underway in 12 national parks where hunters
must be supervised. Already, reports with graphic and
disturbing photographic evidence are emerging showing
native animals including kangaroos left to die a slow
death with arrows lodged in their legs and backs. These
animals not surprisingly are traumatised and will be
difficult to rescue. But what happened to the regulation
about no bows and arrows to be used on kangaroos?
This, and the goat incident, demonstrates that amateur
hunters cannot follow the rules.
In March, Justin McKee, of the Australian Wildlife Rescue
Organisation was quoted as saying: “Just months
after the NSW Government has opened hunting back
up in our State Forests, we have incidents of native
animals being unnecessarily maimed by uninformed
or careless hunters.”
NSW has come almost full circle in the last decade and
could we in WA be set to repeat this cruel experiment
because of the political influence of a minor party?
The RSPCA has been working closely for many years
with government agencies across the country to help
integrate animal welfare considerations into pest animal
management practices, with some considerable success.
We know that those involved in developing management
plans understand the need for a coordinated and
considered multi-stakeholder approach if they are to be
successful in reducing the impacts of pests in a humane
and effective way. Recreational hunting simply does not
feature in this approach.
If you feel as strongly about this issue as I do, I encourage
you to write to your local Member of Parliament and express
your concerns about the issue of recreational hunting in our
state and national parks. There is further information
that you may find helpful on the RSPCA WA website.
If you would like to read other submissions into “The
inquiry into the potential environmental contribution
of recreational hunting systems”, including the
RSPCA’s submission in greater detail you can visit
parliament.wa.gov.au/Parliament/commit.nsf/
(EvidenceOnly)/E0E21CA76ECE2ADD48257C3800129
7F1?opendocument
The Public Administration Committee inquiring about
this issue is due to make a report to the WA Parliament
in March 2015, so the time to air your concerns with
your State Member of Parliament is now.
If we take action now, together we can put an end to this
debate once and for all.
For all creatures great and small,
Lynne Bradshaw
RSPCA WA President
Following the RSPCA WA submission to the
Parliamentary inquiry, I ensured that our point of
view featured prominently in the news media. I was
interviewed on radio and made the RSPCA’s concerns
very clear in an article published in The West Australian.
RSPCA WA Great & Small Summer
13
Improved farm animal welfare has been
delivered by committed farmers, retailers
and growing consumer demand.
Appr
ved
Farming Scheme
The lives of more than 95.2 million farm animals have been improved since
the RSPCA Approved Farming Scheme started.
RSPCA Approved Farming Scheme –
what does this mean?
for the animals involved. This could be a very poor
outcome from an animal welfare point of view.
RSPCA established the Approved Farming Scheme
as part of its efforts to improve the lives of Australia’s
farm animals and provide guidance and a trustworthy
choice to consumers wanting to purchase products
from higher welfare production systems.
The Approved Farming Scheme is a not-for-profit
program. Seventy percent of Approved Farming
Scheme expenditure in financial year 2012/13 related
to monitoring compliance with the standards, with
the remainder going to building consumer awareness
and encouraging participation in the Scheme by more
brands, producers and retailers.
The RSPCA is not opposed to the farming of animals
for food or fibre, and its position reflects that of the vast
majority of Australians who live a lifestyle that includes
using or consuming animal products.
The RSPCA Approved Farming Scheme encourages
people who eat meat and eggs to choose higher
welfare products. Without higher welfare alternatives,
consumers looking to buy animal products are more
likely to purchase products from conventional systems
that may offer less humane treatment and conditions
14
Producers (including individuals or companies) that
aspire to improve animal welfare on their farms, or wish to
have their efforts to improve animal welfare recognised,
can apply to join the RSPCA Approved Farming Scheme
and implement the RSPCA’s standards.
These standards, which have been developed through a
rigorous process that includes consultation with farmers
themselves, are publicly available at rspca.org.au.
Improved farm animal welfare has been delivered by committed farmers,
retailers and growing consumer demand.
We thank you all for your continued support of RSPCA’s Approved Farming
Scheme – giving farm animals a better quality of life.
The RSPCA requires Licensees to have robust chain of
custody systems in place throughout the supply chain.
This ensures RSPCA Approved products are clearly
identified and kept separate from other products, and
can be reliably traced from point of sale right back
through to the farm.
RSPCA Australia employs specialised animal welfare
Assessors to assess farms against the RSPCA’s
animal welfare standards, which go beyond what is
required by law.
As part of a typical on-site assessment, the RSPCA
Assessor will observe all areas where animals are kept
as part of the RSPCA Approved Farming Scheme and
verify compliance with the species-specific animal
welfare standards. They also meet with farm managers
and check farm records.
RSPCA standards (specific to each species) provide
the requirements for the rearing, housing, handling,
transport and slaughter of the species. The standards
are developed based on the best available science and
in consideration of RSPCA policy, current Australian
and overseas leading practices, as well as input from
the industry and farmers themselves.
This program is entirely independent of the state/
territory RSPCA Inspectors, whose role it is to enforce
existing animal protection legislation on behalf of the
state/territory government.
To download your copy of the Approved Farming
Scheme, visit rspca.org.au
RSPCA WA Great & Small Summer
15
COMMUNITY FUNDRAISING
C
mmunity
Fundraising
WANT TO HELP ANIMALS?
With a huge increase in cruelty reports and investigations
we’re seeing even more animals needing our help and
care. We rely on fundraising activities for 94% of our
funding and we cannot do it without you!
There are heaps of ways for you to get involved, from a
quiz night, to an exciting tandem skydive or simply just
through regular giving.
Whether big or small, you can even organise your own
fundraising event! We appreciate all the inspiring ways
people like to do their bit for the animals.
We will be here every step of the way to offer support
and guidance.
For more information contact Deida on 9209 9340
or email [email protected]
Eight year old Sarah’s world
was turned upside down when
her 11 week old puppy “Bella”
died suddenly of unknown
complications. Sarah’s mum
Mel said “unlike many other
dogs, Bella would have had
an amazing life with Sarah
and her brothers Zak and
Tom - she had three beds, all the
toys, food and the love she needed.
Sarah really wants to raise some
money to try and save other dogs”.
Her teachers, family and friends
are 100% supportive of her efforts
to fundraise for RSPCA.
Sarah raised over $300 by running
fundraising activities at her school
and with her family in memory of Bella.
THANK YOU SARAH!
CELEBRATE YOUR LOVE OF ANIMALS
PARACHUTE FOR PAWS!
with our Yappy Valentines Quiz Night 2015!
Jump Away on World Day on 4 October 2014 saw 12
passionate animal lovers including staff, volunteers
and supporters jump out of a plane at 14,000 feet all
for a cause; to help animals in their time of need.
This fun new event will take place at the South Perth
Community Hall and be hosted by James Lush;
When: Saturday, 14 February 2015
Time: Doors Open 6pm, 6.30pm start
Fully licensed event, please no BYO of alcohol
or beverages
Snacks will also be available to purchase or BYO
Purchase tickets and secure your table now; email
[email protected] or call 9209 9300 Tables
of ten or single tickets are available and cost $25 each
(18+ event).
This is a fundraising event to help the animals in our
care so please bring plenty of cash for raffles, games
and auctions! (EFTPOS will be available)
WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOU THERE!
16
SARAH’S PROMISE
Thank you to the community for supporting their
challenge, and as a team they raised over $13,400.
Thank you Amanda, David, Diane, Gwen, Jessica, Kirsty,
Kylie, Lorna, Michelle, Shiree, Tom and Trudi for your
passion and bravery for animals!
ARE YOU UP FOR THE CHALLENGE OF A LIFETIME?
Join other dare devil animal lovers and take on an
inspirational and life changing 14,000 foot tandem
skydive in the heart of Perth on Saturday, 7 March 2015.
Stretch your comfort zone or tick it off your bucket list. Helen and Chloe
JOIN US AS AN ANIMAL AMBASSADOR
Give animals the second chance they deserve by
joining our regular giving team as an Animal Ambassador,
like Helen.
Helen became an Animal Ambassador after rescuing
Chloe Rose from RSPCA WA 12 years ago and
says “Chloe Rose was only six-months-old and had
been found wandering the streets by a ranger when
we found each other at the RSPCA shelter in Malaga.”
“She had brought her entire toy collection to the front
of her kennel to entice visitors to notice her and it
certainly worked a treat - one look at those big brown
eyes and I was hooked for life! Since that wonderful
day twelve-years-ago her sweet, trusting nature still
brings so much joy to my life. It breaks my heart to see
her getting older faster than me and I know each and
every day with her now is extra special”.
Most Animal Ambassadors choose to donate $20
a month (only $5 a week) from their credit card.
Animal Ambassadors demonstrate a strong commitment
to RSPCA WA by providing a steady stream of reliable
income, paving the way for a positive future for many
injured, neglected and abandoned animals.
Show your passion for so many animals that desperately
need your help. Please make a caring commitment and
become an Animal Ambassador today.
To find our more call Deida on 9209 9340 or email
[email protected]
DATES FOR YOUR DIARY
Busselton Jetty Swim
Weekend 7/8 February 2015
Yappy Valentine’s Quiz Night
Saturday 14 February 2015
Rottnest Channel Swim
Saturday 21 Feb 2015
Parachute for Paws
Saturday 7 March 2015
Gibb River-Challenge
Week 17-21 May 2015
Sign up NOW by emailing
[email protected] or fax 9248 3144.
RSPCA WA Great & Small Summer
17
Christmas
V lunteers
wishes
are paid in six figures... S-M-I-L-E-S
Gayla LeMaire
OP SHOPPING
JOB BOARD
Where better to do Christmas shopping at bargain
prices than at our Op Shops! Enjoy some guilt free retail
therapy this Christmas.
Love animals and would like to get involved and make a
difference? We are currently seeking volunteers for the
activities below;
Cleaning out over the Christmas break?
NUMBER PLATES
Did you know that you can purchase personalised
RSPCA number plates? A unique gift for that someone
special in your life. Your own personalised RSPCA plate
costs just $400.
CHRISTMAS CARDS
RSPCA Christmas cards are purrfect for letting your
loved ones know that you’re thinking of them with 20%
of each purchase donated to RSPCA. Use this link or
visit our website to get your order in now.
christmascards4charity.com.au/default.aspx?
SUBURL=rspca
GIFTS IN LIEU - ‘Tis the season of goodwill
Why not try a gift with a difference this year and ask
your friends and family to give you a gift that you really
care about and will make a real difference to the lives
of animals.
We can help you get started with RSPCA In Celebration
donation envelopes or you could even set up your own
Christmas Gift online fundraising page for online savvy
family and friends!
For help to get started contact Deida at
[email protected] or 9209 9340.
Community Event Volunteers
Our Op Shops are always seeking quality donations
including pre-loved clothing, shoes, handbags, bric-abrac or furniture all in good condition. Drop them off to
the store and you might just find yourself a great piece
for the festive season while you’re there!
We are building a team of passionate Community Event
Volunteers who can host an RSPCA stall at community
events and festivals across Perth.
Op Shop Volunteers
Store locations:
Bibra Lake, Mirrabooka, Palmyra, Port Kennedy
Love customers, shopping and clothes? We are seeking
volunteer Retail Assistants who can commit to at least
one shift per fortnight at one of our fabulous Op Shops.
Hours: Monday - Friday, 9.30am - 4.30pm,
Saturday 9.30am - 12.30pm
Wombat Collection Volunteers
Stores will be closed for the Christmas break from
Monday 22nd December - Saturday 3rd January
Our wombat donation tins sit on shop counters
throughout the metro area. We are seeking volunteers to
collect, empty and place ‘wombat’ donation containers.
P.S Don’t forget to ‘Like’ our newly launched Op Shops
Facebook page: facebook.com/RSPCAWAOpShops
CHRISTMAS
MESSAGE
Pets are wonderful companions
but as we know, they need a
lifetime of love, care and attention.
Dogs and cats can live for over 15
years! So please help spread this
important Christmas message for
pets; a pet is for life,
not only just for
Christmas.
DIANA ROBINSON
Administration Volunteers
A lifelong love for animals led volunteer Diana Robinson
to do something she had always wanted to – volunteer
with animals.
Based in Malaga, we are looking for volunteers who are
available at short to medium notice on weekdays to
assist with general office tasks. After adopting her cat ‘Toka’ from RSPCA in May this
year, Diana decided to get involved volunteering after
looking for something to fill a void after a stressful
period in her life.
For all enquiries or to express your interest
please email Eva at [email protected]
or phone 9209 9321
Starting out helping with enrichment for cats, Diana
soon added an extra shift to her week to help in the
laundry. Diana said “feeling the cold myself, I couldn’t
bear to think of the dogs and cats also feeling the
cold. One way I could make a difference was helping
with the laundry, making sure there is plenty of clean
towels and blankets for the animals.”
INTERNATIONAL VOLUNTEER DAY
“I have to say it’s the most rewarding job I’ve ever done.
It gives me such a buzz knowing I am giving them the
extra warmth they need. And providing enrichment for
the cats, it’s very therapeutic, every one of them is just
so beautiful!”
RSPCA WA supports International Volunteering Day
and would like to take this opportunity to thank all of
our fantastic volunteers across Western Australia.
International Volunteer Day is celebrated on 5 December
2014 and provides the opportunity to celebrate and
raise awareness of the valuable impact volunteers
and the difference they make for so many causes and
people all over the world .
Of course not quite as beautiful as Toka who has fitted
right in with the family, following Diana around the
house everywhere, a perfect companion.
18
RSPCA WA Great & Small Summer
19
Event wrap up
October saw the launch of our new campaign –
Spring to Action for Animals.
As the weather began to warm up a huge team of 80
volunteers and their dogs hit the streets of Perth and
helped to keep tails wagging with our annual street
appeal on the first Friday in October.
The campaign continued throughout the week with fun
activities such as Make a Move Monday getting animal
lovers to dust off their runners and commit to walking
their dogs every day that week and Choose Wisely
Tuesday encouraging people to make informed choices
at their weekly shop.
Onesie Wednesday had people throughout Perth
finding their inner animal and trading their usual work
wear for an animal onesie to raise funds. The Lucky
Shag sprung to action on World Animal Day with staff
wearing animal ears and collecting donations.
This super week for animals was wrapped up with
Doggies Day Out at Whiteman Park. Dogs were treated
to a fun morning of exhibits, prizes and entertainment,
RSPCA volunteers were on hand once again collecting
donations and helping the event run fantastically –
thanks so much Whiteman Park for a great event and
great venue for the dogs.
CUPCAKE DAY
Over 9,000 people and their dogs took part in the walk
to fight animal cruelty last May. The flagship event held
in South Perth was a fabulous day, although slightly
wet, crowds braved the showers to walk the 5km track
along the foreshore. All dogs great and small were out in
force as people browsed the numerous animal related
exhibits and the dogs enjoyed meeting new friends. The
walk was led by our hero dogs who had been rescued
and rehomed by RSPCA throughout the year, leading
the pack was hero dog veteran Barbara who was invited
along for her 10th Million Paws Walk.
Million Paws Walk 2015 will be held on Sunday 17
May 2015 at Sir James Mitchell Park, South Perth
registrations will open in mid February, you can register
your interest now to be the first to register to fight
animal cruelty in 2015 visit millionpawswalk.com.au
Over 500 people baked up a storm in
August to fight animal cruelty with
Cupcakes. Workplaces, schools
and friends baked, iced and sold
cupcakes to fundraise to help out
our furry friends. From Pupcakes to
Copcakes, creative minds across the state
decorated their delights with animals themes and
raised much needed funds for us to continue our life
saving work.
Cupcakes Day can be held in any day throughout August
2015 with the official date being Monday 17 August.
RSPCA WA is very grateful for the support of our
sponsors at this year’s Million Paws Walk. Our partners
share our values and they help us achieve a better
outcome for all creatures great and small.
Proudly supported by BHP – our platinum sponsor
Proud sponsor of RSPCA
Million Paws Walk.
Another way we’re making the
name Bank a good one.
13 25 77
pnbank.com.au
Police & Nurses Ltd ABN 69 087 651 876 AFSL/Australian Credit Licence 240701
20
RSPCA WA Great & Small Summer
21
Healthy
Weight for
Longer Life
Help us to push for
cruelty-free cosmetics.
Thousands of animals worldwide still
suffer in the name of beauty.
NEW Hill’s Science Diet
™
™
Perfect Weight
• A breakthrough blend of
natural ingredients
*
*
• Helps your pet shed
excess weight
• No artificial flavours, colours
or preservatives, tastes great
Hill’s #1 Brand recommended by Australian Vets
SP3808 * Data on file, Hill’s USA (2011). ™ shown are trademarks of Hill’s Pet Nutrition, Inc. © 2014 Hill’s Pet Nutrition Pty Ltd. HIMA-DN-1438416. HPA2280. 08/14. GHG.
It’s estimated that around 27,000 animals
are still being used for cosmetics testing
across the world which means thousands
of animals are STILL suffering in the name
of beauty.
While cosmetic companies don’t test their
products on animals here in Australia, many
well-known brands do test their products
or ingredients on animals elsewhere in the
world, which then end up for sale on our
shelves.
The RSPCA has partnered with RSPCA
UK to join the global #makeovertheworld
campaign to ask cosmetic companies to
put an end to animal testing.
You can help make over the world and end
this suffering by joining at rspca.org.au/
makeover-the-world
Proud sponsor of RSPCA
Million Paws Walk.
Another way we’re making the
name Bank a good one.
13 25 77
pnbank.com.au
Police & Nurses Ltd ABN 69 087 651 876 AFSL/Australian Credit Licence 240701
As someone who only buys cartons of cagefree eggs, Kate was shocked to discover
the ‘hidden’ cage eggs lurking in her trolley.
“That’s why I’ve written to some of my
family’s favourite brands to tell them it’s
time to go cage free.” This month, Aussie
hens need you to join Kate and thousands
of other Australians in contacting frozen
food brands and telling them to put a freeze
on cage egg use:
hensdeservebetter.org.au/take-action
DOG AND PUPPY TRAINING
Does your dog ignore you when you call?
Does your dog jump up, dig, chew your
furniture or nip you?
If you answered ‘YES’ to any of these
questions, RSPCA Dog Training is what
you are looking for.
RSPCA offers the following:
I TOOK THE PLEDGE
justsixminutes.com.au
Professional, experienced trainers
Maximum 8 dogs per class
6 week courses
Positive reinforcement techniques
Families welcome
Proceeds from RSPCA Dog Training helps
RSPCA fight animal cruelty and neglect.
Western Australia
22
Visit our website rspcawa.asn.au
to book online or by phone 9209 9309
RSPCA WA Great & Small Summer
23
We’ve been
ad pted
Tilly
Bobby
Vivien
Winston
Digger
Tammy
Izzy
Fuji
Denver
Milky
Levi
Sarg
Tate
Samba
Koby
Tiga
Zack
Gerald
Western Australia
rspcawa.asn.au
RSPCA WA (Inc.) is the state’s oldest, largest and leading animal welfare charity, dedicated to improving
the lives of all animals throughout the state.