A new year always brings a chance to pause — to take a breath, look back at what we’ve learned, and look ahead at where we’re going. At the Nova Scotia SPCA, 2026 is giving us all three.
It’s a year to keep improving how we serve animals and communities, a year to deepen our training and systems — and a year that begins our journey toward a remarkable milestone: our 150th anniversary in 2027. Over the coming year, I’ll be sharing a series of reflections looking honestly and thoughtfully at what animal welfare has been, what it is today, and what it must continue to become.
Animal welfare is often seen through moments of urgency — a rescue call, an investigation, a life saved just in time. Those moments matter deeply. But the true measure of accountability in animal welfare isn’t found only in those visible flashes of action. It’s found in the quieter work: the systems, standards, and decisions that guide thousands of choices every year, often without headlines or applause.
As we approach 150 years of service, this anniversary invites more than celebration. It invites responsibility. Longevity, on its own, isn’t the achievement — earning trust over time is. And that requires clarity about how accountability is defined, upheld, and strengthened for the future.
At the Nova Scotia SPCA, accountability means recognizing that caring for animals is complex, emotionally demanding work. It requires ethics, evidence, transparency — and a willingness to evolve. Trust isn’t built through words alone. It’s built through consistent action, clear governance, and the humility to change when better ways forward emerge.
Accountability Starts with Leadership and Structure
Strong animal welfare depends on strong foundations and leadership at every level. Over the past year, the Nova Scotia SPCA has made a deliberate investment in leadership development across the organization, with staff from shelters, enforcement, veterinary services, thrift operations, the College of Animal Welfare, and our provincial office participating.
This reflects a belief I hold strongly: leadership isn’t defined by a title. It shows up in everyday decisions, clear communication, and accountability in action. Strengthening leadership across teams helps ensure expectations are clear, decisions are consistent, and staff are better supported in complex and often high-pressure environments.
Clear Processes Support Ethical Decisions
Good intentions matter, but accountability requires systems that support sound judgment.
Over the past year, the Nova Scotia SPCA strengthened internal processes, particularly in enforcement and animal protection work. Training materials were updated, assessment pathways clarified, and leadership within investigations strengthened with the appointment of Deputy Chief Inspector Sarah Palmer, who brings more than a decade of legal experience to the role.
These improvements support officer safety, strengthen public confidence, and ensure enforcement decisions are fair, defensible, and grounded in professional standards.
Expanding Access to Care and Education
Accountability also means addressing barriers before animals reach crisis. Through Tartan Tails Veterinary Hospitals, the Nova Scotia SPCA continues to expand access to veterinary care, investing in clinical standards, staffing, and hospital capacity to better serve both shelter animals and community pets.
Education plays an equally critical role. The Nova Scotia SPCA continues to invest in the College of Animal Welfare, where significant renovations are underway at 7 Scarfe Court to support expanded learning spaces and a dedicated teaching hospital. Opening in early 2026, this facility will support the launch of the Veterinary Technician program, building on the success of the Veterinary Assistant program and helping prepare the next generation of animal care professionals.
Investing in People Strengthens Care for Animals
Animals cannot receive high-quality care without skilled, supported people. Accountability means recognizing the emotional demands of animal welfare work and responding with meaningful investment in staff wellbeing, training, and connection.
Our staff live the values of compassion, thoughtfulness, and kindness every day. Any reflection on where we’ve been — or where we’re going — must include sincere gratitude for the care they provide, often under challenging circumstances.
Looking Ahead to 150 Years
As we move toward our 150th anniversary, this moment is not just about celebrating the past — it’s about recommitting to the future.
Accountability in animal welfare is not a destination. It is an ongoing process that evolves alongside professional standards, community expectations, and the needs of animals themselves.
Our commitment remains clear: to invest in people, strengthen systems, expand access to care, and uphold ethical, transparent practices that place animal wellbeing at the centre of every decision.
Because accountability isn’t just about answering questions.
It’s about earning trust — every day.
To our staff, donors, volunteers, and community of supporters, thank you for your trust in us as we begin another year of helping thousands of animals. Together.
Elizabeth Murphy
Chief Executive Officer
Nova Scotia SPCA
Your thoughts are always welcome. Please email info@spcans.ca.