Watch SSPCA: On the Wildside

SSPCA: On the Wildside is a compelling television program that takes viewers on a wild journey through Scotland's untamed wilderness, following the actions of the Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SSPCA) as they work to rescue, rehabilitate, and release injured, sick or endangered wild animals. The Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the welfare of all animals in Scotland, with a particular focus on domestic animals, farm animals, wildlife, and exotic pets.

The show, which airs on Animal Planet, documents the daily operations of the SSPCA's team of animal welfare officers, veterinarians, and volunteers as they face daunting challenges during their rescue operations. SSPCA: On the Wildside focuses on fascinating real-life stories of the SSPCA as they operate across Scotland on a range of high stakes missions from saving seals trapped in fishing nets, to rescuing otters from traps, and treating injured deer. The show's format is both informative and educational, it provides viewers a backstage pass to the SSPCA’s wildlife rescue and rehabilitation efforts.

Throughout this show, viewers are treated to an inside look at the lives and work of the dedicated SSPCA volunteers, working tirelessly to help wildlife that has suffered in some way. The show captures the daily life of SSPCA officers, including their early morning starts, work in harsh weather conditions and the long hours that the job demands.

SSPCA: On the Wildside provides an insight into the challenges faced by the SSPCA as they attempt to rescue a diverse array of wildlife. For instance, on one episode of the show, SSPCA officers rescue a seal pup that was tangled in fishing nets along the Scottish coast. In another episode, viewers join the rescue team as they rescue a stranded dolphin from a beach on the remote coastline of North Scotland. Additionally, the show covers the SSPCA's efforts in investigating and dismantling illegal animal trade across the country.

Aside from rescue operations, the show emphasizes the lengthy process of rehabilitating each rescued animal back to health. This ranges from providing initial stabilization through medical treatment to the eventual release of the animal back into the wild, after regaining strength and fitness. The show highlights the importance of animal welfare and the effort that goes into re-introducing animals to their natural habitat.

In addition to the animal rescue sequences, SSPCA: On the Wildside has a strong educational element by shedding light on the behavioral biology and natural habitat of Scottish wildlife. For instance, the show documents the natural breeding habits of wild animals, feeding habits, and territorial behavior, as well as showcasing the technological advances of animal tracking and monitoring them in the wild.

Overall, SSPCA: On the Wildside is a captivating television show that pulls back the curtain on the vital work of the SSPCA. As we progress through the various episodes, we learn about the challenges and rewards of working with Scotland's wild animals. It highlights the importance of conservation, wildlife protection, and the work that goes into ensuring the welfare of animals that have been injured, ill or endangered. The show promises to leave viewers with a greater understanding of the complex and rewarding work of the SSPCA, as well as a new appreciation for the majestic wildlife that shares Scotland's ecologically diverse environment.

SSPCA: On the Wildside is a series that ran for 1 seasons (13 episodes) between August 8, 2020 and on Animal Planet