Animals also have feelings and are also in need of protection especially from cruelty. “To provide effective means for the prevention of cruelty to animals throughout the United States” is the main mission of the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). This non-profit organization created in 1866 has been answering the pleas of animals for protection against human beings.

It was in New York on April 10, 1866 that Henry Bergh created this foundation in response to the creation of the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals in the United Kingdom. In its early years,the organization was focused on the protection of horses and other livestocks as they were used in a number of activities during that time. It was 9 days after its creation that Bergh was able to pass the first anti-cruelty law and the organization was granted the right to enforce these laws.

It was in 1867 that the organization was able to operate its first ambulance to rescue injured horses, cats, dogs and even pigeons. In 1912, they were able to establish the first animal hospital under the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. Since then they were able to innovate and develop various medical procedures and other scientific breakthroughs to help improve the health and welfare of animals.

Considered as the main humane organization in the nation, the organization is geared towards providing local and national leadership in three areas including: serving victims of animal cruelty, providing positive outcomes for at-risk animals and caring for pet parents and pets. This non-profit foundation is primarily working on issues like pet care, companion animal issues, animal cruelty and neglect and equine or horse cruelty issues. The organization has been based in New York City since its founding and is now currently listed as one of the largest charities in the United States.