Who we are

Nova Scotia has the distinction of being the first place in North America to pass laws for the prevention of cruelty to animals. This was done in the year that Great Britain first enacted such laws – 1822. The Acts of Nova Scotia in 1824 made provisions for public whipping to be the punishment for persons convicted of cruelty to animals. The SPCA became an incorporated society in 1877, and in 1880 was vested with the authority to appoint agents that shall have the power and authority by law conferred upon peace officers and constables to secure compliance with any act to be enforced for the prevention of cruelty to animals.

In 1988, a gentleman by the name of John A. Kennedy pass away leaving a sizeable bequest. Due to the money received, the dedication and cooperation of the newly formed Metro branch board and the provincial board and staff, the society was able to open the doors of its newly constructed Metro SPCA animal shelter in Dartmouth on January 10, 1991.

On March 10, 1992, a devastating fire caused extensive damage to the newly built Metro SPCA animal shelter and worst of all, four animals perished in the fire. No one was formally charged for the fire; however, arson was suspected. On June 26, 1992, the doors of the reconstructed Metro SPCA animal shelter were re-opened.

Today, the Nova Scotia SPCA is involved solely with the prevention of cruelty to animals and the promotion of humane education. The society maintains an education program which is essential to the community. For this reason, the Metro SPCA shelter is unable to accept owner-surrendered animals unless space permits.

Many people would be surprised to learn that the annual operating budget for the Metro shelter is over $350,000. We couldn’t be as successful as we are without the support of the public and our annual fundraising campaigns.

While many of the animals that come through our doors have been through some of the most horrific of experiences, the Metro shelter is, however, not a sad place to visit. In fact, it is a joyous and happy place where deserving animals are given a second chance for a happy life. It is a place where dedicated shelter staff get to witness the culmination of their hard work and sacrifice when an animal begins to trust again, and where animal lovers converge to volunteer countless hours of their time in an effort to change the lives of Metro’s downtrodden animals.

For Animal Control or Cruelty Complaints, please see our Contact page.