by Lucy Ashton
The Scottish SPCA (SSPCA) confirmed that Milton Animal Home – formally designated Dunbartonshire Animal Rescue and Rehoming Centre – will close for good at the end of June.
The charity, which is entirely dependent on public donations and had a strong cohort of supporters led by local doctor’s wife, the late Mrs Jessie Forrester, of Oxhill, Dumbarton, noted that the reason for the closure is due to operational costs rising “significantly” in recent years.
It is understood that there are 16 posts at the centre, located just off the A82 at Milton, which are now at risk, and the SSPCA is set to start a consultation period of around six weeks.
There are said to be ‘some redeployment opportunities available’ which will be discussed with affected employees.
Animals currently being cared for at the centre will continue to be adopted and fostered out or gradually moved to other centres.
The SSPCA states that colleagues at the Milton centre have shown “extraordinary commitment and dedication” to every animal that has come through the doors.
There are two other centres in the West of Scotland, including one at Cardonald in Glasgow and another in Bothwell, Lanarkshire.
A statement from the SSPCA said: “Like many charities, our operating costs have risen significantly in recent years and, as we receive no government funding, we are entirely dependent on the generosity of the Scottish public.
“We will be making some operational changes to reduce costs on a recurring basis and ensure we are using our time and expertise as effectively as possible.
“This includes the difficult decision to close our Dunbartonshire Animal Rescue and Rehoming Centre at the end of June.
“However, the site itself has significant limitations. The building is not fit for future expansion and, we have carefully assessed where we can consolidate resources and invest in facilities with the greatest potential to provide the best possible experience for animals in our care.”
The charity further commented that inspector and animal rescue officer coverage will continue to be available in the area.
Their spokesperson added: “Animal welfare remains our top priority. Inspector and Animal Rescue Officer coverage will continue in the area, and animals will continue to be supported through our wider network.
“These changes will put the Scottish SPCA on a more sustainable footing so we can continue to protect animals, now and long into the future.”
The SSPCA was founded in 1839 and is Scotland’s leading animal welfare charity.
Milton Animal Home staff and resident with Dumbarton MSP Jackie Baillie.
The closure of its Milton centre comes as the organisation looks to undertake a major restructuring, including a huge reduction in the services it offers as it seeks to slash costs by 20%.
In December, the charity announced the opening of a voluntary severance scheme as it looked to deal with what it called a “challenging fundraising climate”.