The Exploits Valley SPCA is a volunteer-based, charitable organization dedicated to improving the welfare of animals in all of central Newfoundland west and south, from Lewisporte to Baie Verte. It relies heavily on the support of a group of Concerned Citizens in the Springdale area. The Exploits Valley branch of the SPCA is affiliated with the Newfoundland SPCA, the Canadian Federation of Humane Societies and the Humane Society of the United States. It also works closely with other rescue groups devoted to animal welfare. It is located on Hardy Avenue in Grand Falls-Windsor.
The Exploits Valley SPCA has been protecting abused, stray, and neglected animals since 1971. It provides protection, shelter, and care to hundreds of animals from all over central Newfoundland. They also help animals by investigating cases of animal cruelty and neglect. Every year, hundreds of unwanted, abandoned and stray animals rely on the Exploits Valley SPCA for care, comfort and a second chance. When three of my classmates and I visited the Exploits Valley SPCA after school one day to get pictures to go with my report, we saw lots of unwanted animals. We also took our Flat Pen Pals from Tany's Dell School in Harlow, England with us. My flat pen pal, Flat Ben Childs, got to see all the dogs and cats. They were so cute. They were so happy to see us. We talked to them and we were allowed to take the cats up in our arms. One kitten was so excited he climbed upon Brittney’s back. The two dogs that have been there for a long time greeted us at the door. They are just like the Walmart greeters at Walmart. Their names are Kevin and Crystal. I wish I could take them home with me. It’s very good to see that out there in the world there are kind people who care enough that they give shelter to the animals who need it. Without shelters where would those animals be?
The Exploits Valley SPCA also provides dog and cat boarding facilities for a very modest fee. When pet owners have to go somewhere where they can't take their pets, they can board their pets at the SPCA without the need of bothering friends and family. Another nice thing the SPA does is they have a pet therapy program which has been running for a number of years through the Carmelite Seniors Home. They have also developed a web site to promote respect for animals, and they have a Humane Education Coordinator who offers advice brochures, pamphlets and resources.
Although volunteers do most of the work, the SPCA needs money to pay four part-time day workers. Night shifts are covered by volunteers. They also need money to maintain the building such as heat and lights, food, cleaning supplies and veterinary care. This money comes from fees for services, donations, and fundraising. The SPCA needs about $65,000 annually to fund its operations. I watched the SPCA Telethon on Rogers Television on May 2, 2006. More than $12,000 was raised, as animal lovers from the area called into Rogers Television to pledge their donations. Keep up the good work!
Deborah Oake (2005-2006)