How to Give to the SPCA

Saving the lives of overlooked and discarded animals has been the job of the SPCA since it’s inception in 1824. The SPCA had its simple beginnings primarily to prevent the abuse of carriage horses in the days before automobiles in England. Horses were driven through freezing cold winters and stiflingly hot summers, often with little food, water or rest. The carriage drivers were interested only in making as much money as possible, and would beat the horses if they refused to or were unable to pull the carriages.

The first American SPCA was started in 1866 in New York City and has since added SPCA’s all over the country and the rest of the world. SPCA International seeks to develop and utilize a worldwide platform that both supports independent animal shelters and promotes the safety of animals.

The majority of local SPCA's and humane societies around the world are not affiliated with national organizations, as most people may presume. They depend on funds that are either privately donated, acquired from grants or through major organizations like SPCA International that seeks to develop and utilize a worldwide platform that both supports independent animal shelters and promotes the safety of animals.

There are several ways to support your local SPCA’s. First and foremost are outright monetary donations and supplies. Second are matching gifts. Many companies offer matching gift programs to encourage employees to contribute to charitable organizations. Most of these programs match contributions dollar for dollar, and some will even double or triple the amount of your gift!

Another way is to plan a future gift. Each year millions of Americans make gifts in support of charitable purposes of their choice. In today’s environment, these gifts are more important than ever in helping fund the work of charitable entities like the SPCA. Many have found that time spent considering the best ways to structure their gifts can help them make meaningful contributions while meeting personal planning goals as well.

Finally there is volunteering at your local SPCA shelter. Many who are new to animal rescue begin helping with projects outside of the facility. For instance, they sew scarves for the animals' web portraits, make small quilts and animal beds, organize supply & donation drives, and more. Most SPCA shelters will also be happy to help you find a niche here at the sanctuary, matching their needs with your skills and interests. Volunteer opportunities are wide-ranging and include everything form brushing and grooming the animals to assisting at adoption events. Most ask for a minimum commitment of time from each volunteer.

For the person who is looking for full time employment or to make a career out of the care of animals, many SPCA’s do offer full time positions. Everything from Staff Veterinarians to Animal Rescue Technicians are needed in most shelters on a regular basis. Apply early though as these positions are highly desired.

The SPCA believes that all animals deserve a chance at life in a loving, permanent home and will work tirelessly until there is a home available to every animal in need and euthanasia is necessary only as an escape from suffering, or for the protection of people and other animals.