How long have you worked at RSPCA WA?

Since January 2011. I started out as a volunteer dog walker, then worked as an Animal Attendant – helping with adoptions and caring for the animals in the shelter. But my goal was always to become an Inspector.

What does your role involve?
My role as a General Inspector is to investigate animal cruelty and educate the public on animal welfare.

What do you like most about working as an Inspector?
The most rewarding part of my job is seeing the difference I can make to animals in need. Every day I meet owners who love their animals, but are lacking the knowledge or resources to provide proper care for their pet. Improving the life of an animal by simply educating the owner is very rewarding.

What is the biggest challenge you face in your role?
It’s a tough reality of the job that we simply can’t be everywhere at once, and sometimes aren’t able to reach animals in time. Inspectors work under the Animal Welfare Act 2002, which is currently under review. I hope to see changes to the Act that will empower Inspectors to do more to proactively prevent animal suffering before it occurs.

What’s your most memorable animal rescue?
I have so many memorable stories it’s hard to single one out, but the day I seized Ying – a young female dog from an unoccupied rural property – comes to mind. Ying was tied up with a thick chain around her neck. She’d been chained so long that the metal had become embedded deep in her skin as she grew. She would’ve been in immense pain, so to be able to remove her from that situation and get her to a vet where the chain was removed is a feeling that will stay with me forever. Ying’s owner was prosecuted for animal cruelty, and Ying was rehomed with a lovely new family.

Do you have any pets?
I have two dogs – a Golden Retriever and an Alaskan Malamute – two cats (both foster fails), three ducks and six chickens. Since 2011, I have also fostered kittens – too many to count but probably over 100. Many were neonatal, and required round-the-clock care and bottle feeding every few hours. I love animals, so am always happy to do whatever I can to help them.