Pam Aubert visited the GSPCA headquarters, toured its facilities and saw the start of its new build project, which is looking to expand and modernise the shelter’s operations.
The tour covered the GSPCA’s plans for new kennels and a wildlife hospital, as well as community engagement initiatives such as its latest Dolphin Trail and the society’s involvement in other summer events around the island.
Mrs Aubert said the experience provided valuable insight into how animal welfare services are delivered in Guernsey.
‘It was really great to see how it’s being done by our counterparts,’ she said.
‘Steve [Byrne, GSPCA manager] shared a lot of ideas around fundraising and community outreach that we’re keen to explore.’
Mrs Aubert, who previously worked in cancer care and brings a background in philanthropy, said her priorities at the JSPCA included reconnecting with the public, improving operational efficiency, and supporting long-serving staff.
‘We want to open our doors again and share our strategic plan for the next five years.’ she said.
One outcome of the meeting was the formation of a new islands regional working group under the Association of Dogs and Cats Homes, which will include charities from Guernsey, Jersey, and the Isle of Man. The group will meet regularly to share best practices and improve standards of care across the islands. Mr Byrne, a former ADCH trustee, will lead the initiative.
The JSPCA plans to send staff back to Guernsey in October for further collaboration.
Mrs Aubert said the visit marked the beginning of a more open dialogue between the islands. ‘We’re still in the learning phase, but we’re committed to working together and supporting each other.’
Mr Byrne said it was a pleasure to host the visit. The two societies have most notably cooperated on care for seals found washed up on local shores in the past couple of years.
‘Our conversations about future partnerships and the challenges we share as island-based charities were inspiring,’ he said.
‘The creation of the new ADCH regional group will be a fantastic platform to connect, collaborate and raise the bar in animal welfare together.’
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