Honorary Inspectors

The essential work done by the RSPCa’s inspectors is supplemented by a small but important band of volunteer inspectors called RSPCA honorary branch inspectors.

An honourary inspector is a trusted member of an RSPCA branch with experience in handling small and large animals and often with specialist knowledge in particular areas of animal welfare.

Honorary inspectors have none of the powers of an RSPCA inspector, but their support role is a highly practical one, doing spot checks of animals, helping inspectors to prioritise their work and organising shelter for seized animals. RSPCA inspectors often travel long distances and cover huge areas of the State, so honorary inspectors act as their “eyes and ears”.

Honorary inspectors must be members of a local RSPCA branch, in most cases for at least two years. Honorary inspectors carry RSPCA identification but do not have the power to seize animals, nor do they have the powers of RSPCA inspectors. They perform their work as unpaid volunteers.

It’s an honour  

Vicky Hartwig wanted to make a difference for animals so six years ago, she became an honorary branch inspector for the RSPCA in Albury.

“I wanted to provide a lifeline for animals and I love the job,” she said.

“Although it can be sad, we can and do make a difference every day. It is rewarding when something comes together and there is a happy outcome.”

Her work as an honorary inspector is in addition to her dog grooming business and often takes her to some hard and heartbreaking cases.

Five years ago, she had to deal with the horrific sexual mutilation of horses in Albury in a series of attacks which shocked the city and the State.

“I don’t think anyone could forget that – seeing the horse in pain and shock. I don’t think I will ever get over it,” she said.

“Much of our work often involves intervening when people starve their animals. I will never understand how people can look in their backyard every day and see a starving animal and not do anything about it.”