S.P.C.A.

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 80, Issue 255, 27 October 1937, Page 6

S.P.C.A.

TO-DAY’S STREET APPEAL , This society, established in England in 1824, and whose patron is His Majesty the King, holds its annual street appeal day to-day, when the public of Wanganui will have the opportunity and privilege of contributing to one of the worthiest of causes —the prevention o-f cruelty to animals. In England and in Australia a far greater measure of support is given to this society for its beneficent purposes than in this country, sad to state, but this year a great effort is being put forward to remove this blot, and in Wanganui a thorough canvass has been organised by Miss A. Ridd, assisted by Mrs. Lance, the patroness, to place this grand cause on a better financial footing. This appeal provides Wanganui citizens with an opportunity to show that in furtherance of such an humanitarian cause they, at any rate, are alive to their responsibility in this direction and will determine to subscribe liberally. Animals are dumb. This very fact, particularly in the case of our domesticated animals (and birds) compels, or should compel, man’s sympathy and care for those creatures who cannot appeal for themselves. We regard them as friends and companions; this being so, we feel shame and disgust when confronted with any case of cruelty. This society is the “watchdog” for such cases, probing and investigating with the idea of bringing offenders to book. Perhaps in no country have animals, as friends and helpers of man, played such an heroic part in the building and moulding of a colony, as in New Zealand. Surely, then, we should recognise generously the great debt we owe to them. In such a field of heroism cruelty, in any shape or form, should be abhorrent. With the limited finance available the local branch has done all it possibly could to further the objects of the society in past years, but it is not nearly sufficient. Its inspector has to cover a very large area—Hunterville to Patea—but, if the society had greater financial backing this territory could be handled much more efficiently and they are most anxious to do this. This year, through the generosity of Mr. Lampe, the society’s depot is located in Mr. Lampe’s vestibule. Only one appeal is made each year. Now, citizens, when the box with the blue cross symbol is held out to you, think of your dumb friends, and show them by your generous giving that in these days of hustle you do not forget the noble part they have played, and continue to play, in the life of this Dominion. Help those who cannot help themselves. If you are unable to drop a coin in the blue cross box mail a cheque—it will do just as well—and honour the animals who have made New Zealand prosperous.