RSPCA Tasmania is closing its Launceston and Latrobe adoption and retail care centres due to rising pet surrenders and financial losses of $100,000 in the last year.
CEO Andrea Dawkins says the decision was made in response to the increasing number of animals being given up because of cost-of-living pressures.
“[We’re] not immune to the cost of living crisis, which has put upward pressure on our costs and increased the number of animals being surrendered into our care,” Dawkins said.
The closure comes as the not-for-profit organisation acknowledges the growing demand for their services, with a strategic plan in place to enhance their Spreyton Animal Care Centre.
“The expansion will not only ensure we can care for more animals, it will also ensure we have the most contemporary facilities to care for cats, dogs, pocket pets, horses and more,” Dawkins said.
Planned upgrades include refurbishing and constructing additional kennels, improving facilities for larger animals and providing more beds to support animals belonging to individuals fleeing family violence.
Both the Launceston and Latrobe retail outlets will remain operational for the coming weeks as closing dates are finalised with staff and stakeholders.
All staff members affected by the closures will be offered alternative roles within the organisation.
