"We speak for those who cannot speak for themselves'' very accurately describes the role of the Bermuda Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) located on Valley Road in Paget.

The facility marked its 80th anniversary last weekend with an Open House. It has made great strides this year.

There have been positive transitions for the staff as they share space in one building, about 3000 square feet, with the animals.

The exterior of the building is a cheerful yellow. During the past year it has been renovated and updated.

The front interior of the building serves as the reception area and provides a pleasant administrative office environment, modern and complete, with new computers.

Shelter Chairman, Veterinarian, Dr. Andrew Madeiros, said: "We are very proud of the accomplishments we have made on our facility. We have a new cat room, which is modern and comfortable for the cats.

"Historically, the cats were in large individual cages until they were adopted. Now after various procedures, when the sociable cats are ready for adoption, they live together in a large room where they roam freely and coexist. This is a major change in our philosophy too.'' They have a large, long, row of dog cages, generous in size. The Centennial Trust has provided the SPCA with a grant to incorporate outdoor runs within many of the cages.

There is a modern examination room where every animal is examined after admission, followed by medical care and a bath.

The atmosphere is very nurturing and reminds one more of an animal hospital rather than a place for unwanted, scruffy animals.

The animals are well fed, well groomed and given love and excellent care by the dedicated staff and many volunteers.

Some of the animals may feel they are in a guest house. They care for about 1000 animals every year.

Bermuda's SPCA was founded in 1894 and is a registered charity which was incorporated in 1921 by Act of Parliament. It began as a horse lovers league.

The mission of the SPCA is: To provide effective lawful means for the prevention of cruelty to animals.

To promote the education of the general public on the care and well-being of all animals.

To encourage and promote kindness to animals.

Many people think the SPCA only cares for cats and dogs but this could not be further from the truth.

The new SPCA inspector, Charles Whitted, is constantly checking on numerous animals such as horses, goats, cows, rabbits, birds ...any living creature which needs help.

"I investigate cruelty and negligence complaints received by the shelter, many of which require more than one visit,'' advised Mr. Whitted.

The SPCA van is used to collect any reported injured animal which is then promptly taken to a veterinarian if necessary.

Dr. Madeiros explained: "There are no specific rules and regulation governing many animals in Bermuda and this makes it very difficult for the SPCA when dealing with cruelty cases. We are constantly pushing for revision and updating of existing animal-related Acts to meet today's standards.'' "We need better legislation and enforcement related to animal care. The frustration is seeing the same problems year after year.'' The top three animal problems in Bermuda are: cats, dogs and horses. Inspector Whitted expressed concerns about young boys ages 14, 15 and 16.

"In many cases there are young kids stealing dogs and tying them up in bushes and telephone poles. Most of these kids come from broken homes where the parent tells the teen they cannot have a dog.

"Sometimes the dog is left for days without food, water and proper care.

Another serious problem is the teens fight the dogs and the dogs are left with serious wounds and suffering.'' The inspector has had five such cases in two weeks. He implores the public and the police to work with the SPCA to wipe this problem out. Psychologists say that children who are cruel to animals tend to also be cruel to people.

The SPCA has an executive board and the officers are: President, Jennifer Paradine Vice-president and Volunteer Coordinator, Debbie Riley Treasurer, Mary Barnes Shelter Chairman, Andrew Madeiros Board members, Gail D'Allessio, Gina Cook, Debbie Masters, Michelle Fray-Morton, Lynne Dart and Carola Farrell.

Each year the government gives the SPCA a small grant but they rely upon their fund raising and local donations to keep things running efficiently. They have three full time staff and one part-time staff and depend on many volunteers.

They also have two dog wardens employed by government, Shinah Simons and Jeffery Benevides.

"What I enjoy most about my role with the SPCA is the satisfaction of seeing unwanted animals going to nice homes and working with staff who share that interest and genuine care for animals,'' concluded Dr. Madeiros.

SPCA Staff : Left to right. Charles Whitted, inspector, Jessica Waltham, volunteer kennel coordinator, Phyllis Madeiros, office administrator, and Hilda Matos, senior office administrator. Absent was Rosemary Ray, office administrator.

ANIMALS ALS