Thanks from DSPCA

Before christmas Margaret Lahiff, ESB Networks, appealed for your help as the DSPCA had just rescued a huge number of animals from a fighting ring in the Tallaght area in Dublin. The response was wonderful and many of you sent all kinds of gifts, old and new and all were gratefully received by the animals. Others gave support by buying Christmas cards and sponsoring pets.

Margaret is a volunteer at the DSPCA for the last two years. With a small full time staff working during the week and a few volunteers, they depend greatly on volunteers at the week-ends.

The Dublin Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, a charity, established in 1840 to prevent cruelty to animals, is now Ireland’s largest animal welfare organisation. Unfortunately cruelty, neglect, accidental injury and sickness to animals continues today and the DSPCA fight animal cruelty and abuse in all of its forms. They also provide direct care for thousands of animals at their shelter in Rathfarnham for both domestic pets and wildlife.

The DSPCA investigates suspected cruelty and where appropriate prosecute those who inflict cruelty on animals. Four Inspectors cover Dublin city and county and provide an animal ambulance service. They also to find new homes for the animals in their care, provide advice and information to the public on pet care and animal related queries and accessible veterinary treatment at their mobile clinics and an information service to colleges and youth groups. The group also provides career guidance advice for those interested in working with animals while working endlessly on legislative changes to improve protection for animals. There is huge cost involved in delivering this service throughout Dublin alone, in excess of €1.65M annually, of which 5% is a Government grant and the remainder is generated by the Society through adoptions and fundraising.

Volunteers play a huge part in helping this charity as they cut down on staffing costs and they do a huge number of jobs such as cleaning out kennels and stables, walking the dogs, running the coffee shop and working on reception as well as updating the Society’s website and helping out at special events.

Margaret wishes thank everybody for their help and support in thinking of the little animals in their time of need.