People power drives Sandton SPCA’s animal-saving work
As the Sandton SPCA reflects on a demanding year, the animal welfare highlights the staff, volunteers and supporters whose collective efforts changed thousands of animal lives in 2025.
As the new year unfolds, the Sandton SPCA is placing the spotlight not only on the animals it has helped, but on the people whose daily commitment makes that work possible.
From frontline inspectors to behind-the-scenes support teams, 2025 was a year that highlighted the power of teamwork in the face of ongoing challenges. Sandton SPCA general manager Stephen Maila said the past year demonstrated how every role within the organisation contributes to achieving animal welfare outcomes.
Calls for help answered by reception and switchboard staff set rescues in motion, while inspectors and field officers responded to emergencies across all 176 suburbs under the SPCA’s jurisdiction.
Read more: Sandton SPCA calls on community to help care for vulnerable animals
“Despite operational challenges, including a shortage of vehicles, our inspectors continued to put animal welfare first,” said Maila. “They ensured that both domestic animals and wildlife received urgent assistance when it mattered most.”
While high-profile rescues often draw public attention, Maila stressed that the organisation’s impact was built just as much on consistent, everyday care.
Clinic teams treated injured and neglected animals, while kennel staff provided comfort and enrichment to animals waiting for new homes. Housekeeping and access control staff ensured a safe and dignified environment for both animals and staff, and visitors.
“Behind the scenes, our fundraising and communications teams worked continuously to secure the resources that allow every other department to function,” Maila added.
The results of this collective effort are reflected in the organisation’s annual figures. During 2025, the Sandton SPCA inspected 2 495 animals, treated 2 778 through its clinic and performed 1 573 sterilisations. Inspectors carried out more than 2 000 cruelty investigations, while more than 9 000 volunteers contributed their time in support of animal welfare.
“These numbers represent lives changed. Every rescue, every recovery and every second chance happened because people showed up, our staff, our volunteers and our supporters. Even when resources were stretched, our teams never lost sight of why this work matters.”
Also read: Keeping animals safe during the festive season
“We would like to offer our deepest and most heartfelt gratitude to our donors, supporters, volunteers, partners and neighbours. It is because of you that frightened animals find safety, that the neglected find comfort, and that the voiceless find someone who speaks for them.
Together, we will continue building a kinder, safer and more compassionate world for every animal who needs us.”
As the Sandton SPCA moves forward, its focus for 2026 is firmly on strengthening and expanding its services. Community support remains central to these plans, helping to ensure sustainable operations and the ability to respond to growing needs.
“We are focused on expanding our inspectorate team, growing our outreach and education programmes, increasing sterilisation rates, boosting adoptions and continuing to rescue animals of every kind.
With the support of our community, we believe 2026 can be a year of even greater progress for animal welfare.”
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