Author: master

The Boards of the Dublin Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (DSPCA) and Irish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ISPCA) today confirm both organisations have signed an agreement to merge to form a single, integrated national animal welfare organisation. The merger when fully completed will create the new National SPCA (final brand to be agreed and approved by the Charity Regulator) and will be operational by 1^st October 2025.

The establishment of one leading animal welfare charity in Ireland will deliver a unified national animal welfare strategy across the country to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome sick, injured or cruelly treated animals.  Ireland is currently in the midst of a national crisis in animal welfare with record numbers of animals requiring rescue, treatment and rehoming. This has put huge strain on all organisations in the sector. This merger brings together Ireland’s two largest animal welfare charities who have always had the same mission: the protection of animals and prevention of cruelty.   The new entity will benefit from combined resources, structure, expertise, facilities and geographical reach.

Mr. Paul Connell, Chair of the DSPCA, will be Chair of the new organization and Mr. Pat Watt, CEO of DSPCA, will become CEO of the National SPCA when operational.  The Board of the new organisation will include representatives of both the DSPCA and the ISPCA.

Speaking at the announcement, DSPCA CEO, Pat Watt said; “This is a transformational and exciting development for animal welfare in Ireland, bringing together the two largest animal welfare charities who share a mutual commitment, ambition and vision to form one integrated national animal welfare organisation.”

Paul Connell, Chair of the DSPCA said: “The new charity represents a positive pooling of resources, expertise, history and DNA to create a stronger national entity that will deliver a seamless national approach to benefit animal welfare policies, legislation, enforcement and on the ground animal welfare initiatives. Both Boards have worked tirelessly over the last number of months to make this merger happen. It is expected to be completed in the coming weeks, and we are fully committed to building upon the strength and impact of both organisations to deliver even greater impact on animal welfare in Ireland as a result of the enlarged scale and footprint of the new National SPCA.”

Pete Wedderburn Chair of ISPCA said: “This exciting merger furthers the cause of animal protection in Ireland. It is a welcome move that will result in better services and treatment for animals that are at risk and that is our overriding priority at all times. The merger creates a new and enduring brand in Ireland that aligns with public expectation and the need to meet ever growing challenges for animals.  The National SPCA will deliver a unified animal welfare capability ensuring that our vital work is prioritised, supported and resourced appropriately. It enables a national reach with our animal facilities and inspectors nationwide playing an even more important role into the future.”

It is envisaged the new National SPCA will deliver a unified national animal welfare strategy and capability and bring many benefits to current and future initiatives. This includes having one unified, stronger voice for animal welfare at a national level; creating one national animal welfare inspectorate; expanding national welfare education programmes; and operating a national infrastructure of animal shelters with additional investment and expertise to modernise and maintain consistently high standards of animal welfare throughout the country. This will be augmented by a network of Associate animal welfare organisations around the country who share our commitment and vision for animal welfare in Ireland.

Concluding, Mr Watt stated: “This is the next exciting chapter in the evolution of the much loved and iconic brands of the DSPCA and ISPCA to create the National SPCA and move forward as a national organisation continuing to do our utmost for the care and welfare of animals in Ireland. We are confident that both the DSPCA and ISPCA’s loyal and dedicated staff, volunteers, associates, partners, advocates, fundraisers and the general public, who give so generously to support our work, will support our joint ambition to create a new powerful national organisation that will continue to place animal welfare at the heart of all our ambitions.

Everyday we see animals being abandoned, neglected, and cruelly treated. We also see pets being surrendered to the DSPCA by their families who can no longer look after them. So far this year, we have received over 300 surrender requests from people wishing to rehome their pets.

To raise vital funds and to reinforce the message that adopting an animal should be a well-considered decision that fits each person’s lifestyle we are launching our ‘Furrever Friends’ plush toy collection.

The days are getting longer, the air is getting warmer, and yes, there’s a grand stretch in the evenings. Spring is the perfect time to get outside with your pets, but as nature wakes up, there are a few things to keep in mind to keep them safe and happy. 

Spring Flowers and Curious Noses: Daffodils, tulips, and bluebells may look beautiful, but they can be harmful if eaten. Keep an eye on any enthusiastic sniffers. 

Fleas, Ticks & Worms: Warmer weather brings more parasites. A quick chat with your vet can help keep your pet protected. 

Garden Safety: Fertilisers, weed killers, and slug pellets can be toxic. Store them securely and go for pet-friendly options where you can. 

Seasonal Allergies: Pets can get hay fever too. If you notice itching, sneezing, or watery eyes, it might be time for a vet visit. 

Foxes on the Move: Foxes are more active in spring, which can unsettle some dogs. Keep an eye on their behaviour, especially in the garden. 

Wildlife Awareness: Nesting birds and baby animals are out and about. Stick to paths, keep dogs on leads in nature reserves, and hold off on trimming hedges until autumn. 

Lambing Season: If you’re walking near farmland, keep dogs on leads to avoid disturbing sheep and lambs. Even the best-behaved dogs can get a little too excited. 

Enjoy the grand stretch with longer walks, lazy afternoons in the garden, and extra playtime with your pet. A little awareness goes a long way in keeping them safe and comfortable. 

The DSPCA Team  🐾

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This Valentine’s Day join us for a heartwarming event dedicated to helping our wonderful animals find their perfect match. Whether you’re looking for a loyal companion, a playful friend, or a gentle soul in need of snuggles, we have the perfect pet waiting just for you. While some may be overlooked due to their age, size, or medical needs, every one of them has just as much love to give.

Event Highlights:

Meet & Greet: Interact with over 50 adoptable animals, including dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, and more.

Pet Matchmaker: A dedicated team member will be on hand to help potential adopters find their ideal pet.

Kissing Booth: A fun and quirky way to get up close with some of our adorable animals – will it be a kiss, a hissing, or a nibble?

Sunset Walk (Weather Permitting): Join our DSPCA dogs for a peaceful sunset walk in our Memorial Garden.

Refreshments: Enjoy complimentary tea, coffee, and sweet treats in our reception area.

Free entry for all. Adoption fees apply.

Updated Statement from Pat Watt, DSPCA CEO

The Dublin Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (DSPCA) is concerned and saddened that a number of XL Bully dogs in pounds and shelters around the country are due to be euthanised next week when the nationwide ban on the breed comes into effect on February 1, 2025.

The DSPCA does not support breed specific bans for several reasons. Experience in other countries has demonstrated that bans are ineffective in reducing dog attacks. They do not address the root causes of dog related incidents which include lack of education and training, inadequate enforcement of existing regulations, and unfortunately, irresponsible dog ownership and instances of cruelty.

The DSCPA has worked endlessly to ensure that all XL Bully-type dogs in its Rathfarnham shelter were rehomed in advance of the nationwide ban. Every rehomed dog has been placed in a responsible and caring home, with their new owners fully compliant with all relevant legislation, including securing the necessary Certificate of Exemption, and following a rigorous evaluation process.

This was made possible through a collaborative effort with numerous other rescue organisations. Together, the DSPCA and its partners not only rehomed the dogs from their shelter but also assisted in the rehoming of XL Bully-type dogs from other charities.

The DSPCA has also been offering guidance and practical support to owners struggling with the application for a Certificate of Exemption. Dog owners were invited to visit the DSPCA shelter with their pet, talk to a member of the team and to get help in navigating the form. We have also offered subsidised neutering and muzzle training workshops.

While the DSPCA have had significant success in rehoming the dogs already in their care, they are concerned about the sharp rise in bull breeds and crossbreeds being surrendered or abandoned all over the country to animal shelters that are already overcrowded and under significant pressure due to animal cruelty and neglect. The ban unfairly stereotypes certain breeds and can create a misconception that they are inherently dangerous, which is simply not true. These dogs make wonderful companions in the right home and the DSPCA are urging people to visit the shelter and consider them when choosing a new companion.

The DSPCA are also concerned about the growing evidence that illegal breeding practices have been driven underground, leading to new hybrid breeds replacing the XL bullies.

The DSPCA does not support breed specific bans, but encourages enhanced restrictions in relation to XL Bully types which include:

• XL Bully types added to the restricted breed list, with clarity on the definition of an XL Bull
• Ban on breeding and importation of XL Bully types with immediate effect
• Better enforcement of the existing legislation with more ‘Dog Wardens’
• Increased penalties for non-compliance with the regulations
• Government supported education programme on ‘Responsible Pet Ownership’
• Where owners cannot meet the requirements, a consistent approach to managing the surrender process

The DSCPA also urges the Minister to engage with animal welfare organisations on the implementation, and to give animal shelters more time to enable them to responsibly rehome within strict assessment and adoption criteria, and to allow time for the processing of exemptions from the public after 1st February.

Statement from Pat Watt, DSPCA CEO

Firstly, the Dublin Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (DSPCA) sympathises with those people affected by recent tragic dog-related incidents and our thoughts are with the families affected.

The DSPCA does not support breed specific bans for a number of reasons and are concerned that the ban on XL Bully types will not address the root causes leading to dog attacks. Furthermore, a blanket ban will mainly target responsible owners who are not the problem. It can also drive illegal breeding practices underground and can lead to new hybrid breeds replacing the XL bullies.

Experience in other countries has demonstrated that bans are ineffective in reducing dog attacks. They do not address the root causes of dog related incidents which include irresponsible dog ownership, cruelty, lack of education and training on responsible dog ownership, and inadequate enforcement of existing regulations. A ban also unfairly stereotypes certain breeds, and can create a misconception that for example, all bull breeds and crossbreeds are inherently dangerous which is simply not true.

In addition, it creates distress and panic amongst responsible owners of bull breeds which can lead to dogs being surrendered to animal shelters that are already overcrowded and under significant pressure due to animal cruelty. The existing legislation is there to protect the public and the many owners who are taking responsibility for their pets that are on the restricted breed list – we need greater enforcement to ensure compliance together with appropriate fines for non-compliance.

The DSPCA supports and encourages enhanced restrictions in relation to XL Bully types which include:

• XL Bully types added to the restricted breed list, with clarity on the definition of an XL Bull
• Ban on breeding and importation of XL Bully types with immediate effect
• Better enforcement of the existing legislation with more ‘Dog Wardens’
• Increased penalties for non-compliance with the regulations
• Government supported education programme on ‘Responsible Pet Ownership’
• Supports for existing owners to help them apply for an exemption and transition to full compliance
• Where owners cannot meet the requirements, a consistent approach to managing the surrender process

We also urge the Minister to engage with animal welfare organisations on the implementation, and to make an exception for animal shelters post 1st October to enable them to responsibly rehome, within strict assessment and adoption criteria, any XL Bully type dogs that come into care after the ban is implemented.