GEORGE NEWS - Protecting animals does not only happen behind office doors, and the Garden Route SPCA (GRSPCA) is now taking that message firmly into the surrounding communities.

The GRSPCA’s George branch will dedicate every Tuesday exclusively to community outreach and fieldwork, strengthening its core mission of preventing cruelty and protecting animals where they live.

“While this work has always formed the backbone of SPCA operations, setting aside a full day each week allows larger teams to be active in the field at the same time, increasing impact and reach,” says George’s branch manager, Sue Nokes.

On these days, a significant portion of the SPCA team, including administrative staff, will be working directly in the communities. Activities will include animal welfare education, welfare inspections, dipping and deworming, collecting unwanted animals and transporting animals to the SPCA clinic for sterilisation and treatment where needed.

The George branch will be closed to the public on Tuesdays, but the SPCA will continue to operate for animal care and emergency response. 

Animals housed at the SPCA will still receive full care, and cruelty complaints and urgent cases will be attended to. Adoptions, vaccinations and general public enquiries will resume as normal for the rest of the week.

According to the organisation, the shift allows the SPCA to be present where it matters most. While office-based services remain important, meaningful change happens in communities through early intervention and education, preventing suffering before it escalates.

The GRSPCA’s George branch will dedicate every Tuesday exclusively to community outreach and fieldwork.

The SPCA thanked the public for its understanding and ongoing support, and encouraged volunteers aged 18 and older to get involved in outreach efforts.

Cases of animal cruelty or emergencies should be reported to the GRSPCA on 082 378 7384.

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