I am writing to you about issues presently confronting animal rescue groups in South East Queensland.
Recently there’s been media reports about two animal charities in SEQ whose members have been charged with animal cruelty after neglected animals were found in their care. Proceedings are pending.
Cruelty or neglect of vulnerable animals is appalling, especially in these circumstances, however I am concerned about the potential to undermine the genuine, diligent, volunteer work for vulnerable animals done by so many of us. As RSPCA Queensland has also said in the context of these cases: “We are grateful for the good rescue groups out there doing good work”.
This is why I am writing to reassure you all that at Furry Friends ARQ Inc it’s our policy to moderate fostering to a reasonable capacity and to govern our organization with integrity. We are careful to support our foster carers and other volunteers wherever we can. Kind, empathetic people, after all, have great difficulty saying ‘no’ when they see a sad soul needing help and can easily swamp themselves. So we try to care not only for the animals, but the people in our team. As I’ve seen a few hoarders and rogue ‘charities’ over the years, I’ve ensured that our team members know the limit of their capacity, and that our animals are vetted quickly after arrival, and with our donations we will continue to uphold our standards and values.
On a brighter note, I am so excited for our team’s success with adoptions for May. We have managed to find homes for over 12 cats and kittens. Those animals have been given a second chance and that’s worth a celebration!
I will sign off now with my sincere thanks for all your continuing encouragement and support.
Many thanks,
Minnie – President; Furry Friends Animal Rescue Qld Inc