PROUD HISTORY OF COMPASSION

As far back as the 18th Century, philosophers like Jeremy Bentham argued that, owing to their capacity to suffer, animals should be recognised as sentient beings.

This philosophy led to the establishment of the The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to animals in England in 1824. It was the first animal welfare movement in the world. The main focus was protecting domestic animals through legal reforms and  anti-cruelty laws.

Over the years, the movement spread across the globe. Almost every country in the world now has an SPCA.

The Durban & Coast SPCA – founded over 125 years ago in 1897 – is the largest SPCA in KZN. Despite enduring many difficult years, the organisation has gone from strength to strength, and is now accepted as the leading authority on animal welfare. We also serve as the municipality’s official pound.

Far more than just an animal shelter and adoption facility, the SPCA plays a leading role in educating people – especially children – about the rights of all living creatures. We work tirelessly for better legal protection for animals (particularly farm animals) and more severe penalties for perpetrators of cruelty.