Many families in Guyana have at least one pet, while some have several. Pets, whether dogs, cats, birds or in some cases even snakes, serve many beneficial purposes. The fortunate ones are even integrated into the family to the extent that they dwell in the homes of their caregivers. Decades of studies point to the curative effects of our animal friends; in many parts of the world, pets are used for many other purposes aside from companionship; they are used to treat the mentally ill, to assist the differently- abled , to soothe the elderly, and most always, they offer unconditional love.
Undoubtedly, caring for a pet can be a very demanding task, requiring a significant amount of money, time and energy. Unfortunately, for some owners, the responsibility becomes overwhelming and quite often the animals are abused, abandoned or neglected.
Despite the giving and loving nature of many of these animals, not all owners appreciate or even understand that they are deserving of as much love as any other family member. Thankfully, there are institutions like the GSPCA to intercede on behalf of mistreated and forgotten animals. Many Guyanese pet owners today utilise the services of the GSPCA on a daily basis and benefit from the many, low cost services available.
Formerly known as the British Guiana Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, the institution was established in 1903 by a group of expatriate volunteers after witnessing the ill treatment and suffering meted out to animals everyday in the streets of Georgetown. After independence in 1966 the name was changed to The Guyana Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.
In 2000 the old clinic was replaced with a new and modern building, which is equipped with Boarding facilities, a Surgical room, (2) treatment rooms, a recovery room, Shelter facilities where animals awaiting adoption are housed, a waiting area and an office. It also has a fairly large yard area for exercise purposes for the animals.
Today, the GSPCA continues to be committed to providing low cost health care to pet owners, educating the public on responsible care and treatment of pets, providing shelter to unwanted animals, providing humane euthanasia to injured and sick animals both within and outside the clinic and advocating for spaying and neutering to control the pet population and reduce instance of unwanted animals being strayed.
The humanitarian work of the institution should not be underestimated as they offer a wide range of services including;
Vaccinations
GSPCA also provides low cost vaccination services to persons with puppies 6 weeks and older or adult dogs.
Deworming
Deworming can be done from as early as 2 weeks of age, depending on the recommendation of the veterinarian. For animals under six weeks of age, persons can uplift the dewormer from the Clinic; and for animals 6 weeks and older, the weight of the animal is needed to determine the correct amount of deworming to be given.
Treatment of minor injuries and illnesses
The Clinic tries to provide low cost treatment options for injured and ill animals in catering to the general public’s needs. In instances where the Clinic is unable to provide treatment the relevant persons/ clinics are referenced.
Cruelty investigation
Persons witnessing acts of cruelty should call the Clinic or come in during the working hours and make a report. These reports will be investigated to the best of our abilities and cases filed with the police when necessary.
Boarding
At present, they provide low cost boarding services to members of the public for their dogs. Interested persons should make contact with the office to find out the necessary boarding requirements.
Humane euthanasia
Sadly, many times there is need for the Clinic to provide humane euthanasia services to members of the public for a number of reasons. These services are provided free of cost where possible and some instances, a small charge is required.
Rehoming
The Society’s shelter facilitates adoption for persons interested in providing homes for abandoned and unwanted cats and dogs of all ages
Volunteering
Persons interested in becoming either a volunteer or member of the Society can download and print the relevant forms online or come into GSPCA’s office and collect them. (Guyana Times Sunday Magazine)
