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Dogged By Budget, SPCA Cuts Back

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The Tampa Tribune

Published: January 19, 2008

Updated: 01/18/2008 09:44 pm

NEW PORT RICHEY - Money woes have forced the SPCA Suncoast to close its shelter on Mondays and Tuesdays.

"We were hesitant to close the front office to the public for any reason," Executive Director Martha Murray said in a news release, "but we have been struggling financially for some time now.

"This is a necessary step in lowering our expenses and ensuring the future of the shelter and the thousands of animals who come through our doors in a year."

The shelter at 7734 Congress St. now is open to the public from noon to 6 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday.

With continued community support, new board members and volunteers, and fiscally responsible management, the shelter's future is looking sunnier, the news release said.

"We understand our responsibility to this great community that supports our efforts and we want to make sure we honor that trust by operating as efficiently as possible while still providing top notch care to pets staying with us until they find a loving home," board member Lia Gallegos said in the release.

People wanting to help can volunteer time or professional services; donate office or pet supplies; contribute money; and sponsor or adopt a pet. Volunteer applications are available at the shelter and soon will be online at www.SPCAsuncoast.org along with a list of currently needed items.

The nonprofit Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Suncoast has been protecting and caring for critters in need since 1964.

As a no-kill for space shelter, the SPCA is committed to caring for adoptable pets until new owners take them home.

For information, call (727) 849-1048 or e-mail info@SPCAsuncoast.org.

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