RNZSPCA The Royal New Zealand Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals

Engaging the community in three initiatives that keep on giving

 Largest and most influential animal welfare organisation – over government and veterinary organisations  Nationwide reach – national organisation (The Royal), 47 centres, 100 animal welfare inspectors  60,000 animals sheltered annually, 11,000 animal welfare complaints  Second most trusted charity in New Zealand

 Pet overpopulation – immediate crisis!  Community engagement – protecting animals in their homes  Future proofing – attitudes to animals

 Nationwide free de-sexing  Animals involved in family/human violence  Education – reaching and teaching future generations

 Low income families do not/cannot de-sex their pets  Easy come – easy go  Ultimately SPCA has to ‘clean up’ either retroactively or proactively

 De-sexing 5,000 animals per year  Assists the 47 regional SPCA Centres  Forming community alliances

 Custom built clinic  Dedicated veterinary team  Attracts national and local funding

International research confirms the co– occurrence of violence to animals and human violence Animal abuse is a recognised ‘predictor’ for a range of violence from domestic violence to serial murder Empathy for animals can form the basis for humane social behaviour

 Animals in domestic violence – the most vulnerable victims  New Zealand research shows women and children stay longer in life threatening circumstances if animals are at risk  Women’s Refuge and SPCA can work together to better protect victims

Schools Police First Strike Veterinarians Child, Youth and Family Agency Women’s Refuge

Some immediate solutions: MOU to define roles and responsibilities Education and awareness for both organisations Alliances between local centres SPCA HELP fund to enable SPCAs to fund boarding and vet fees for animal victims

The Education X Factor

Social conscience begins to develop at 10 – 12 years Teaching empathy for animals can encourage empathy for humans Research shows that many boys need a ‘hero’ to model empathy

MEEEEOOOOOWWWW (Thank you)