All my life, I have had a profound love and respect for animals. Whether it's the loyal companionship of a dog, the gentle purr of a cat, or the serene presence of wildlife in nature, animals have been a constant source of joy and comfort. This passion has led me to deeply admire the vital work of the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA).

In New Zealand, we pride ourselves on our progressive Animal Welfare Act, which is designed to ensure the humane treatment of all animals. Yet, I am deeply concerned to see that the very organization which is at the forefront of this mission, the SPCA, largely depends on donations and fundraising to keep its doors open and its operations running. Despite the government's verbal support for animal welfare, the financial backing is woefully insufficient, impeding the SPCA's ability to fully execute their essential work.

Operating nearly 40 centres across the country, the SPCA is known for its tireless rescue work, medical care, rehoming efforts, and public education initiatives. But with limited government funding, they struggle to meet the increasing demand for these critical services. Each year, the SPCA helps over 40,000 animals; however, without sustainable financial support, this work is under threat. This reliance on public generosity is unsustainable, particularly in times of economic strain when donations tend to decline.

In 2020, the SPCA's operations showed a shortfall of several million dollars, a gap only partially filled by sporadic donations. While public support is commendable, it's clear that a more dependable funding source is needed to guarantee that compassionate care for animals can be consistently provided. Ensuring proper funding would not only enhance the SPCA’s ability to save more animals but also support educational programmes that are crucial in fostering a more aware and caring society.

Therefore, I call upon the New Zealand government to officially increase their financial support to the SPCA. This would not only honor our commitment to animal welfare under the law but also align with the values that many Kiwis hold dear.

I urge you to sign and support this petition to advocate for increased government funding to ensure that the SPCA can continue its invaluable work in protecting and caring for our nation's animals. Every signature strengthens our collective voice in demanding this crucial change.