Dunne boosts SPCA’s funds for new buildings

A government grant has pushed SPCA Otago past the halfway mark of its fundraising effort to replace derelict buildings at the Dunedin shelter.

SPCA Otago executive officer Sophie McSkimming said Lotteries Minister Peter Dunne gave $50,000 from his discretionary fund to redevelop buildings belonging to the non-profit organisation.

"It is a very welcome boost," Ms McSkimming said.

This grant takes the fundraising total to $766,000, more than 50% of the targeted $1.5million.

The fundraising campaign started in June.

Organisers aim  to raise the funds by Christmas.

The construction project will be completed in three parts: priority services including veterinary consultation rooms and the education facility; improved quarantine and treatment areas and an extension of the adoption facility to ensure adequate separation from the quarantine area.