City of Port Lincoln acknowledges RSPCA's services as doors close

The City of Port Lincoln would like to extend its heartfelt gratitude to the RSPCA Port Lincoln team and the local volunteers for their dedicated service in managing and rehoming stray dogs and cats. Their tireless efforts have been invaluable to our community.

Earlier this week, the Council was informed of the RSPCA's decision to withdraw their onsite presence in Port Lincoln by 31 August 2024. This change comes as the lease on the current RSPCA site is up for renewal. As a result, Council is currently assessing the impact this will have on Council’s Dog and Cat Management team as well as the broader community.

Council acknowledges the cost challenges faced by the RSPCA, particularly the significant increase in handling costs for dogs and cats. These rising costs and lower numbers of animals surrendered has subsequently decreased the revenue to fund their services.

Chief Executive Officer, Eric Brown said, “Earlier this week the Regulatory Team and I met with the CEO and Operations Manager at the RSPCA to try and discuss a way forward to see whether the on-site presence in Port Lincoln could be saved. Unfortunately, the situation for the RSCPA is not sustainable and a business decision has been made to proceed with the closure.  Even so, the RSPCA will continue to provide its inspectorate service to the Port Lincoln area in responding to cruelty reports and will continue to scope and develop their community outreach programs for Port Lincoln and surrounds.”

“Despite these challenges, we remain committed to ensuring the welfare of stray animals in our community and we will work closely with the RSPCA Whyalla team to continue providing care and rehoming services.”

We acknowledge the services that RSPCA have provided over the years and understand the current climate and the increasing pressures faced by the RSPCA in managing unwanted dogs and cats in their decision to close the current facility.

The City of Port Lincoln is committed to finding viable solutions to ensure the continued welfare of animals in Port Lincoln.

- ENDS –

MEDIA CONTACT:

City of Port Lincoln Chief Executive Officer Eric Brown
Ph:  8621 2325 | Email: plcc@plcc.sa.gov.au