History

Celebrating 200 Years of the RSPCA: A Legacy of Compassion in Devon

In 2024, the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) will mark its 200th birthday, a milestone that reflects two centuries of tireless dedication to the welfare of animals. Since its inception in 1824, the RSPCA has played a pivotal role in shaping the treatment of animals not only in Devon but across the United Kingdom.

1824

The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) founded to support new laws for animal welfare

1824

The RSPCA was founded by Reverend Arthur Broome, Richard Martin MP, William Wilberforce, and others. The catalyst for its creation was an incident in 1822 when Bill Burns was found beating his donkey. Richard Martin, known as "Humanity Dick," introduced the world's first legislation against animal cruelty in 1822.

1832

Queen Victoria granted her patronage to the RSPCA, significantly boosting its profile and influence.

1832

Queen Victoria's patronage of the RSPCA in 1832 elevated its status and influence, endorsing its mission to prevent cruelty to animals. Her deep affection for dogs further fueled her support, solidifying the organisation's position as a leading advocate for animal welfare in the United Kingdom and beyond.

1842

The Exeter, East and West Devon Branch of the RSPCA is established, becoming one of the oldest branches with a focus on promoting kindness and preventing cruelty to animals.

1842

Sadly, in those times, the drowning of unwanted kittens and puppies was commonplace and so the members spent any funds raised on assisting the public with the cost of neutering animals. The first centre was located at Nelders Yard in Paul Street.

1964

When Nelders Yard was taken over for redevelopment in 1964, new premises had to be found and the Branch was directed by Exeter City Council to an old bomb site in Market Street.

1964

In 1964 the Market Street RSPCA Clinic opened and over 20 years hundreds of animals were treated, cared for and rehomed from these premises. Sadly, it was forced to close in 1987 due to noise complaints received by the Council.

1987

Closure of the Market Street Clinic leads to temporary boarding solutions while a suitable site for a purpose-built shelter was sought. Old piggeries, small holdings, little broken down farms were viewed but all proved to be unsuitable.

1988

Then in August 1988, Miss Daphne Absalom, a founder member of the Shelter, noticed in the Express and Echo Newspaper that there was a caravan site for sale, half a mile from Exeter consisting of 21 acres of land together with a rather run down bungalow, stables and outbuildings.

1990

With a grant of £250,000 from the National Society, together with the £135,000 from the sale of Market Street and a £100,000 legacy from Mr Paull of Exmouth; contracts were signed for the work to begin on Little Valley Animal Shelter.

1990

In February 1991, Maggie Court became the inaugural Manager of the Centre. St. David’s Veterinary Practice in Exeter was appointed as the Centre’s veterinary partner. Volunteers planted 25 trees. Miss Absalom deliberated briefly before selecting the name 'Little Valley Animal Shelter' for the new center.

1991

The official opening of the Shelter was arranged for November 1991 and opened by Princess Elizabeth de Croy of France, a great supporter of animals and owner of an animal rescue centre in La Fermeté, France. The Princess was awarded the National Order of Merit in France for her outstanding work with animals.

1991

In June 1991 the first rescue dogs arrived and during the Autumn of that year negotiations began between the Shelter and Exeter County Council regarding stray dogs to be collected by the local Dog Warden.

1993 - 2003

Since the completion and opening of Little Valley in 1990 expansion has gradually taken place. The first of these took place in April 1993 when Regional Headquarters obtained Planning Permission for a first floor extension.

1993 - 2003

As well as extending upwards, it was recognised that the Reception area was very cramped and further plans were submitted for this area to be enlarged. Planning Permission was granted and this building work was completed in 2003 giving some privacy for prospective adopters to meet the animals.

2004 - 2009

RSPCA HQ allocated £25,000 to Little Valley for constructing an isolation unit at the cattery, using the entire budget for the South West Region. Completed on time and within budget in February 2004, the new facility, including a small animal house and stables, was officially opened in June 2004.

2004 - 2009

A wooden chalet was also built, offering a sheltered space for potential adopters to spend time with animals, particularly during adverse weather. Opened on June 2009, the chalet enhances adoption interactions making it a crucial facility for connecting people with potential pets.

2012 - 2014

In 2012, the Exeter, East & West Devon Branch merged with the Torquay Branch. They had been working closely together for years and Little Valley had been taking in cats and rabbits from the Torquay Branch. The merger initiated expansion plans for the cattery and upgraded small animal accommodations.

2012 - 2014

In 2013, demolition began on the old wooden small animals building to accommodate the expanded cattery. The new small animal facility, situated at the front of the shelter, would adjoin the old cattery, repurposed into a rabbitry.

2015 - 2020

Outdoor rabbit compounds were opened in 2015, providing an open space for rabbits and guinea pigs. In the same year, a dog sensory garden was established behind the kennels, funded solely by generous donations. We were growing fast.

2015 - 2020

In 2020, the original Shelter's last update, the dog kennels, were replaced to modernise, ensuring optimal conditions for distressed dogs. The comprehensive rebuild, including a spacious training room, was completed, costing £1.3M.

2020 - 2023

In 2022 our reach grew even further to include north Devon. This lead to a further name change. We become RSPCA Devon Branch and the organisation is geographically, now one of the largest RSPCA Branches in the UK.

2020 - 2023

Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, the shelter ceased public operations, presenting significant challenges for our charity financially and operationally. However, in 2022, Little Valley emerged resilient, initiating a complete rebrand symbolising a rejuvenated beginning for our third decade.

Rebuild

In 2014, our purpose-built cattery was opened, and the former cattery was transformed into our current rabbitry, accommodating up to 30 rabbits and guinea pigs. However, we aim to enhance our rabbit facilities, providing more space and improved outdoor access.

The Warren

This rebuild, an extension of our 2015 small animals area, will offer modern amenities and increased usability for staff. With funding from grants and trusts, construction begins in spring 2024, ensuring all animal areas meet the highest standards for accommodation.

Renew

Our current building, housing our reception, staff room, offices, and RSPCA inspectors, lacks collaborative space and updates. Repurposed fixtures and repairs are overdue. To progress as a respected charity, we must modernise. The reception and consultation area rebuild will foster teamwork and communication.

Reception & Office rebuild

It's crucial to future-proof conditions for staff and animals. The exterior will feature a welcoming reception with a small coffee shop and pet store, while back offices and veterinary areas provide ample space. This remodel will transform operations at Little Valley, fostering a positive environment.

Reach out

In 2021, Little Valley merged with North Devon, becoming one of the largest RSPCA branches in the UK. As part of this, they aim to enhance animal welfare locally by purchasing a mobile veterinary clinic. This clinic will offer vital services to underserved rural communities, providing health checks, vaccinations, and more.

Reach out

Led by Deputy Shelter Manager Merryn Walker, the outreach vehicle will be staffed by qualified specialists, offering essential care and guidance. This initiative addresses the need for accessible veterinary services, ensuring pets receive timely attention, potentially saving lives and preventing neglect due to financial constraints.

Dogs

Cats

Rabbits

Ferrets

Rodents

Birds

Others

Dogs

Cats

Rabbits

Ferrets

Rodents

Birds

Others

Celebrating 200 Years of the RSPCA: A Legacy of Compassion in Devon

1824

1824

1832

1832

1842

1842

1964

1964

1987

1988

1990

1990

1991

1991

1993 - 2003

1993 - 2003

2004 - 2009

2004 - 2009

2012 - 2014

2012 - 2014

2015 - 2020

2015 - 2020

2020 - 2023

2020 - 2023

Rebuild

The Warren

Renew

Reception & Office rebuild

Reach out

Reach out

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