From the BCSPCA web site under "Tall Tales"

April 15, 2003
Tale:

I have heard that the SPCA doesn't have to show where it spends its money. Allegedly the SPCA is exempt from the Society act and doesn't have to be transparent with its finances. Why should I donate to a society that doesn't have to be accountable for a annual budget of $20 million?

Truth:

While it is true that the BC SPCA is slightly different than other non-profit societies in that it was created under the auspices of the Provincial Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act and has responsibility for enforcing laws under the PCA Act and the Criminal Code of Canada, the SPCA is a charity and publishes its annual financial statements annually just like any other charitable organization. The financial statements are distributed at the BC SPCA's Annual General Meeting and are available to any member of the public who requests a copy.