RSPCA, Ballarat

We visited our local RSPCA to 'add a little hope' to the lives of some lonely animals. It is always difficult to leave knowing that a large percentage of our animal friends will not be rehoused, but euthanized. We have adopted numerous (furry) family members over the years and they have brought us much joy and happiness. It is heartbreaking to visit this place (especially in the winter months), as almost all of the cats contract 'Feline Respiratory Disease'. One needs to keep in mind that if you adopt a cat suffering from this disease, that it can infect any other cat you may already have at home (and the associated costs will be your to bear.)

One also must keep in mind that if it is discovered that your newly adopted pet has an underlying medical condition, the RSPCA will only offer euthanasia or a replacement/refund, instead of the necessary treatment. In this case you either have to say 'goodbye' to your 'newly adopted family member' or pay the associated medical expenses personally. There is however the option to have a blood test (at an additional cost), to rule out the possibility of the AIDS virus. We personally decided against this for two reasons. Firstly, there are many other medical conditions that this test wouldn't 'rule out' and secondly, we didn't want to offer our 'new friend' the 'hope' of a better life, only to have it euthanized after we had already become attached to each other.

Unfortunately, we discovered that our two newly adopted 'furry friends' were already in fourth stage renal failure, which cannot be cured. This has proven to be a very traumatic, heartbreaking and expensive situation for all of us.

Another issue to be mindful of relates to the mandatory microchipping. One of our 'furry friends' microchips worked its way down to the base of her spine, resulting in much pain/annoyance for her. Since this time, we have had three veterinary opinions, all concluding that surgery would be 'too dangerous' considering its specific location. We were informed by an RSPCA staff member that it is 'completely normal' for the chips to move around the body, but not necessarily to this extent. We were told that it is more likely to occur in younger animals, which wasn't the case with our adoption.

Regarding the staff, most are genuinely empathetic and friendly. In fact, we have only ever come accross one member of staff that should perhaps consider an alternative career, since she appears to have lost her compassion toward 'needy and traumatized' animals. I understand (from first hand experience) how difficult this job can be, and that one must distance one's-self emotionally (to some extent) to avoid the pain and harsh reality of the job. Having said that, it is vital to remain caring and connected, other wise it will work to everyone's determent.

It would be truely wonderful if responsible pet ownership could be taught and practised by our entire community, then places like these would not be needed. However, our laws (and personal attitude) toward animals would need to reflect this change in order for this to happen!