The branch has 12 members and only three of these members are from the younger generation. 

These 12 dedicated members are stretched almost beyond capacity, continually rescuing and rehoming hundreds of dogs and cats each year.

What many may not remember is that while these animals are in care, they must have somewhere to live and someone to feed them and love them. 

Summer (pictured) is one of many animals taken in the local branch who needs the assurance of somewhere to rest her head while she waits for a new owner.

While there are some community members volunteering as foster carers, the main burden falls on the branch’s members whose properties are bursting at the seams with animals in need of homes. These members have to daily juggle their jobs with not only their RSPCA role, but also the role of foster carer.

In the time I’ve been interacting with the Gunnedah branch, I’ve come to admire and respect the hard work of its members and the common goal that brings them together – rescuing and taking in animals to give them a better future; one filled with love, affection and loyalty.

These outstanding volunteers not only put their lives on hold to care for these animals but also to find them new homes. I have been particularly amazed by the distances they travel to meet prospective owners, all to increase the chances of placing an animal in a new home.

It was through the RSPCA that I was able to adopt my own much-loved companion, Callie. Within half an hour of speaking to member Maddison Lawback, I had a phone number to contact Callie’s then owner to arrange a meet and greet. Two weeks later, I was taking Callie home in my car, and six months on, I am more grateful to the RSPCA than ever.

Gunnedah shire, the RSPCA needs your help. If you can become a member, or provide a safe, loving environment as a foster carer, please put your hand up. If we don’t support these generous, wonderful volunteers, then our RSPCA may cease to exist, and hundreds of animals will face the streets or euthanasia.

You can make a difference in the lives of these animals. Phone Gunnedah RSPCA on 0419 474 689.

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