The New Brunswick SPCA has a new chief animal protection officer.
Don Metcalfe says he wants to put more focus on prevention and community outreach as the organization responds to rising call volumes.
Metcalfe moved into the role after the retirement of longtime chief Tony Porter, who served eight years in the position.
He spent more than three decades in policing, including 29 years with the Saint John Police Force.
Metcalfe said the position lets him combine his enforcement background with his commitment to animal welfare.
“I’ve been an animal lover my whole life. We’ve been dog people since I was young, and I am truly all about the protection of animals and their welfare. It’s really important to me,” he said.
He also spoke about the role pets have played in his own life, including his Airedale terrier, Baxter, and his late pug, Bella.
Metcalfe said animals have always been a source of comfort during stressful days and a reminder of why the work matters.
Metcalfe said his years in community policing shaped how he approaches the job.
He said he wants to build stronger partnerships with residents, schools and local organizations to help prevent neglect before it occurs.
He pointed to the NBSPCA’s Happy Tails program as an example of early support that can keep pets in their homes.
The program offers financial help to owners who are struggling with basic veterinary costs.
Metcalfe said call volumes have increased in recent years, especially in Moncton, Fredericton and Saint John.
He said officers often cover large areas and manage heavy workloads, which can limit the amount of proactive education they can provide.
Shelters across the province also play a key role in the NBSPCA’s work.
“They go above and beyond to help us. I truly don’t know what we would do without them,” Metcalfe said.
He said he hopes a stronger focus on education and community engagement will help reduce calls over time while supporting officers in their day‑to‑day work.
