RSPCA refuses debate

The Companion animal lawyer challenged the CEO to defend the kill rate statistics in the RSPCA report for 2011.

Ms Greenaway is querying the medical and behavioural criteria used to determine which animals are euthanased and which are rehomed.

The lawyer said the RSPCA should make the temperament test (or behavioural assessment), available for public scrutiny.

Mr Coleman said in response to the challenge: “In terms of a debate, it seems futile given RSPCA - without any legal obligation - happily and transparently publishes statistics, warts and all.” 

“We aren’t trying to hide from the public, the RSPCA simply exists because of the public. 

“Rather than a debate, perhaps Anne could focus her energy and passion into helping to prevent animals from ending up in shelters in the first place,” he said.

Mr Coleman said the RSPCA was investing in, as well managing livestock related matters, investigating cruelty matters, lobbying for better welfare legislation, developing partnerships with Petbarn, and integrating new programs such as Drives for Lives to assist in the rehoming of animals across the state.

RSPCA NSW is always open to improvements and is already well aware of the concerns from the public in regards to the perceived high euthanasia rates, he said.

“Each year the RSPCA works toward reducing the number of unwanted animals that end up with them. 

He said they usually have severe behavioural or medical issues.

Mr Coleman said the RSPCA is involved in educating the public by working with pet owners in the community, including pensioners, low income earners, welfare groups, the elderly, indigenous groups and the homeless. 

“We also increase the number of animals being rehomed through dog rehabilitation programs, robust foster care networks, volunteers and ongoing improvements/training in animal behavioural testing and other operations/service at all the shelters across NSW,” he said.

Mr Coleman made no comment regarding the temperament test.

lisa.minner@ruralpress.com