Couple driven by a passion for animals
SUNRIDGE Park residents Hilary and Glen Truscott are driven by a passion for animals that has spanned more than 30 years.
The couple, who helped start up the Animal Anti-Cruelty League in 1983, devote a large chunk of their busy schedules to looking after animals, and educating people in pet care.
The couple – Glenn is now chairman of AACL while Hilary is the secretary – admit they have seen some gruesome sights caused by abuse, but they remain undeterred.
Both Glenn and Hilary run businesses from home. Glenn has a picture framing studio and Hilary is a graphic designer. Although they often find themselves working to deadlines, they are very hands-on in the field when it comes to the plight of animals.
"At least 50% of the day is dedicated to AACL," said Hilary.
The Truscotts say they have also learned a lot along the way, and that looking after animals has turned into helping underprivileged people as well.
"We used to get so mad with people who wouldn't use blankets and food for their animals, and then we realised they also didn't have anything," said Hilary.
Glenn said now many more donations for people as well as animals were being received.
"There is a growing need among residents who have very little," said Hilary.
She said the majority of people living in poor communities had great respect and love for their animals.
"It is amazing to see how proud owners become when you praise them because their dog has improved from a condition such as mange. It makes them feel as though they can accomplish anything."
The Truscotts have four animals at the moment – two dogs and two cats. Hilary said if it were not for a fear of the very busy road that runs past their home she would have a garden full of cats.
She said it was very difficult for her to walk away from the animals at the shelter, but knowing they were safe and not on the streets brought some comfort.
Glenn said they faced many challenges as part of the AACL, and that educating pet owners about sterilization was key.
"That's why we have many sterilisation campaigns and we try to educate people while we are there.
"We would not be able to do this without the help of the many volunteers and the permanent staff and of course [AACL fellow member] Linda-Louise Swain, who never seems to sleep."
And even though some days are heavy on the heart and the public expects a miracle, Hilary and Glenn remain committed to making a difference.