What changes we’ve seen during the past 55 years. On Sept. 22, 1938, the Dallas Animal Protective League, originally formed to protect women and children and to prevent cruelty to animals, was incorporated.

In 1970, the Society for Animal Protection and the Animal Protective League merged to form the Dallas Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.

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In 1973, the E.M. “Ted” Dealey Animal Care Center was dedicated, and in 1976, the George Whittell Jr. Spay/Neuter Clinic opened.

The nonprofit facility was manned by members of the Dallas County Veterinary Medical Association. During the past five years, approximately 20,000 animals have been sterilized.

In 1984, the cruelty investigation department was organized to take an active role in investigating animal abuse and cruelty reports. This department receives up to 5,000 monthly.

In 1988, a library was established in memory of Sandy Hopkins, assistant to KVIL radio personality Ron Chapman. The library contains books, magazines and videos on hundreds of animal-related topics and is open to the public free of charge.

In 1990, the name of the organization was once again changed, this time to the SPCA of Texas. This reflects the efforts being made statewide to stop neglect and abuse of animals.

In 1992, funding was raised through private donations, primarily through benefactor and animal lover Mrs. Myron Martin, to build a spay/neuter clinic complete with a staff veterinarian.

In January, the first surgery performed in the Martin Spay/Neuter Clinic saved the life of an abandoned dog in labor and her puppies.

In June, the Humane Society of Texas merged with the SPCA of Texas, establishing a presence in Collin and Denton counties.

The SPCA of Texas is one of the largest full-service animal welfare agencies in the country and has been given the top five-star rating by the American Humane Association each year since 1985.

In 1992, 8,399 healthy animals found new homes through the SPCA of Texas – the highest adoption rate in the state.

Since we receive no funding from the City or state and are not affiliated with any other agency, we want to thank all of the kind, generous donors and animal lovers who have helped us keep our doors open these past 55 years.

With your help, we’ll be here at least another 55.