Choosing a professional path that has a meaningful impact on society and animals alike can be both rewarding and transformative. A spokesperson from the SPCA addresses common questions about building a career in animal welfare. Their insights reveal the diversity, professionalism, and real-world value found in this important field.
What should people keep in mind when making decisions about their careers?
“A career is a big decision. It shapes not just your future, but the kind of life you want to lead. Many career advisors will tell you to consider three things when deciding on a path: your passion and interests, your desired lifestyle, and your skills and strengths.”
Why does animal welfare tend to be overlooked as a professional option?
“For those who love animals, there are usually only a few well-known options, such as veterinary science, zoology, or environmental conservation. Animal welfare, on the other hand, is often overlooked as a career because it’s seen as something you do out of passion, not for a stable income. Perhaps, [it is] more a pursuit for volunteers, hobbyists, or those who can afford to work without financial pressure rather than a solid career path.”
Can animal welfare offer diverse career opportunities beyond working in a shelter?
“Did you know that animal welfare offers far more than just shelter work or rescuing animals? Behind every animal rescue is an organisation with many moving parts. A career in this field can involve everything from law and science to education, communications, and business. Think about all it takes to run an animal welfare organisation…”
Can you describe the NSPCA and highlight the skills you need in your workforce?
“The NSPCA is a registered non-profit and is Africa’s largest animal welfare organisation. Not only do we ensure the protection of animals of all species, including farm animals, wildlife, and domestic pets, but we also actively work to prevent cruelty and foster compassion and empathy for animals across South Africa. We have several specialised units with trained inspectors who have the authority to take legal action against animal cruelty. Our workforce is made up of people with various skills, such as lawyers, sociologists, and scientists. While they may not have a degree in animal studies, the difference is that everyone at the NSPCA is passionate about upholding animal welfare.”
What are the responsibilities and demands of being an NSPCA inspector?
“The most well-known job at the NSPCA is that of an inspector. Our inspectors undergo rigorous training to ensure [that] they have the knowledge, skills, and experience to act as the frontline defenders of animals. They enforce the Animals Protection Act 71 of 1962, investigate cruelty, rescue animals in distress, and lay charges when necessary. It is a diverse and demanding role. An inspector could be testifying in a courtroom one day and inspecting an aquaculture farm the next.”
Who supports your inspectors, and what other kinds of professionals are essential?
“Inspectors don’t work alone. Supporting them is a network of professionals with expertise across a range of fields. When a case goes to court, the NSPCA relies on legal professionals to provide guidance, draft legal submissions, and help navigate the judicial process. Without skilled communications teams, the public wouldn’t hear about these cases, understand the issues at stake, or know how to get involved. Just as important are the people working in finance, fundraising, administration, and logistics. Each role is essential in keeping the organisation effective and responsive. Animal welfare may be the cause, but it takes a wide range of professional skills to bring about the change.”
Who should consider a career in animal welfare, and what qualities are important?
“If you’re passionate about animal welfare and [are] driven to make a difference, this could be the career path that aligns with both your values and your ambitions. Animal welfare work is a meaningful and professional vocation with real-world impact. Whether your background is in law, science, business, education, or the arts, your skills can contribute to making a difference. You don’t need a degree in animal studies to be part of the movement. What matters most is commitment, compassion, and the drive to protect animals.”
How can someone learn more or get involved with animal welfare work?
“If you’d like to find out more about how you can get involved in animal welfare, please visit our website at nspca.co.za or email us at nspca@nspca.co.za. Discover how your skills can fit into a movement that truly matters.”
Animal welfare is a professional field energised by individuals from countless backgrounds, each contributing their unique strengths to a common cause. The diverse career possibilities found within a leading organisation like the SPCA illustrate just how broad and impactful this work can be.
