During National Volunteer Week, we come together to celebrate and recognise the incredible contributions of volunteers. It’s a time to reflect on the vital work they do and express our gratitude for their tireless efforts. But we want to emphasise that our appreciation for volunteers goes beyond this week — it’s felt every single day, in every moment they give to caring for our animals. Whether it’s tending to gardens, picking up cats for desexing, answering calls in our contact centre, caring for animals in shelter, walking dogs, folding laundry, or offering a warm smile to an animal in need — every role makes an enormous difference to the lives of animals who need us most, playing a part in saving and transforming the lives of the animals in our shelter.   “They may think that they’re only doing a small part of the day, but it makes a really big difference.” says Lily, Animal Attendant. We’re endlessly grateful for…

RSPCA Ranks First in YouGov Charity Rankings for Fourth Year in a Row! This ranking is based on the Donor Consideration Score, a score that measures the likelihood of a charity receiving a donation tomorrow, in which RSPCA scored 31.6. Being a trusted 150-year-old charity, we’re extremely proud of this achievement which reflects our dedication and commitment to animal welfare. We are grateful and honoured to be able to continue to advocate for the care and protection of vulnerable animals. As a not-for-profit organisation, we appreciate and value all our incredible volunteers, donors and supporters who are vital to the work we continue to do. RSPCA sees thousands of animals each year turn to us in need of rehoming, veterinary care and rehabilitation services. Our organisation is committed to giving our furry friends a voice through education, awareness and advocacy to raise present and future generations with kindness, empathy and love towards animals. We want to take this opportunity to…

If you’ve recently paid our Sydney and Hunter Veterinary Hospitals a visit, you may have noticed the signs around our clinic and waiting areas stating that: “We handle all cats gently and with respect – we do not scruff.“ While handling all animals with respect has always been a part of our Animal Management Policy, we’ve furthered our commitment to animal welfare by signing a pledge with International Cat Care. With our signed commitment, we’ve promised to refrain from using methods of restraint (such as ‘scruffing’) that cause unnecessary and unjustifiable stress to the cats and kittens in our care. What is Scruffing? Scruffing or gripping a cat by the loose skin on the back of its neck, can trigger an increase in protective emotions such as fear, anxiety, frustration (and potentially pain). This is because cats who are handled this way lose their sense of agency and control. What is the Psychological Impact on Cats? Avoidance is a coping mechanism in stressful situations and…

On Anzac Day, we solemnly reflect on the courage of those who gave their service and loyalty to our country. We remember the troops and animals who fought bravely alongside each other through warfare and served our country with bravery and honour.  The 24th of February is the National Day for War Animals in Australia. However, on ANZAC day, we also value and acknowledge the contributions of animals in war.  Donkeys, horses, mules, cats, dogs, birds, turtles and more, all made valuable and often unique contributions, providing comfort, support and helping the troops in the trenches and on the battlefield. Donkeys and horses provided a means of transport, dogs served as guards, pigeons were messengers and many more served as mascots.  The Australian War Memorial has a gallery dedicated to these animals to remember them and their stories.    Feline Friends  Cats were an imperative part of life in the trenches, helping to ward away rats and mice and supporting…