The RandWest SPCA has described August as a month marked by heartbreak, cruelty, and exhaustion — a sobering glimpse into the daily challenges its inspectors face.

Inspector manager René van Straten reported that in August alone, the SPCA conducted 70 welfare inspections. She added that the team recently executed another devastating warrant at a hoarder’s house. While full details will be shared later, Van Straten said inspectors left the property physically and mentally drained.

“It was another month filled with heartbreak, cruelty and emotional exhaustion,” she said.

Van Straten also addressed rumours that the SPCA selectively responds to complaints, saying initial dismissal of these claims had given way to growing frustration.

“The reality is, those making these comments have no idea what it takes to do what we do – and they wouldn’t last long in our place. We wish we could pick and choose – skip the hoarder homes, avoid the rot and long walks in remote areas, and spend our days playing with the shelter animals. But we cannot wish. We act and respond,” she said.

She stressed that the SPCA responds whenever possible, prioritising animal welfare above all else.

“Sometimes we cannot respond immediately to a barking dog running in the street, but please remember, the inspector you see might have jumped a fence to save a dog only to be threatened with a knife by the owner,” she explained.

Van Straten appealed to the community to show understanding and compassion.

“Thank you to those who fight with us and who understand and support us! Even if it is from the background,” she concluded.