The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) was the first humane society to be established in North America and is, today, one of the largest in the world. Our organization was founded by Henry Bergh in 1866 on the belief that animals are entitled to kind and respectful treatment at the hands of humans, and must be protected under the law. Headquartered in New York City, the ASPCA maintains a strong local presence, and with programs that extend our anti-cruelty mission across the country, we are recognized as a national animal welfare organization.

As the first humane organization to be granted legal authority to investigate and make arrests for crimes against animals, we are wholly dedicated to fulfilling the ASPCA mission through nonviolent approaches. Our organization provides local and national leadership in three key areas: caring for pet parents and pets, providing positive outcomes for at-risk animals and serving victims of animal cruelty.

The ASPCA’s Programs & Services:

- Community Outreach focuses on providing positive outcomes for animals at risk, and includes our own shelter services in New York City. Community Outreach team members include seasoned animal welfare professionals, veterinarians, animal behaviorists, dog trainers, animal care technicians, adoption specialists and humane educators.

- Animal Health Services provides a wide variety of resources for pet parents.

- The Anti-Cruelty Group is the branch of the ASPCA that halts and prevents animal cruelty through professional education, enforcement of New York City’s anti-cruelty laws and by lobbying for stronger humane legislation nationwide.

Source: www.aspca.org