Arries a stalwart at SPCA for 25 years

GEORGE NEWS - She started working at the SPCA in Heather Park in November 1997 in a Wendy house that had been converted into an office in Meent Street.

Guizela Arries has walked with the Garden Route SPCA (GRSPCA) for 25 years.

"The other offices were in an old house on the same premises in Meent Street," says Arris. "It was a beautiful environment and we were surrounded by forests. Our staff complement included Chris, who was the manager, Merle and Sue from accounts, and inspectors Colleen and Chrisna. I was doing reception and assisting with adoptions. At that time we also did boarding of animals. I stayed with my parents in Borcherds at the time and took a taxi to work and back every day."

However, in 1998/1999 they had to move. "We could not relocate all at one time and it took about a year to move to the premises in the industrial area, where we are now. In those days the Plattner family sponsored some of the kennels and donated generously to our cause and our building was officially opened by the then mayor of George. Over the years we have had been threatened by fires and floods, but we always kept the animals in our care safe," Arries remembers.

One of the most memorable animals was their office cat, Gingi. "Gingi only had one eye and although she was the office cat, she always felt like my cat. She followed me everywhere and lived to a ripe old age. I still miss her."

Arries says she has had many other job offers over the years, but her love for animals and the people at the SPCA have kept her there.

On duty in her office.