American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals

American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals
Name	American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals
Founded	10 April 1866
Founder	Henry Bergh
Location	New York City, New York, U.S.
Key people	Matthew Bershadker (President & CEO)
Focus	Animal welfare
Website	https://www.aspca.org

American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals is the first animal welfare organization in North America and one of the largest in the world. Founded in New York City in 1866 by Henry Bergh, its creation was inspired by the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals in the United Kingdom. The organization works to prevent cruelty towards animals through legal, legislative, and direct care initiatives across the United States.

History

The society was formally incorporated on April 10, 1866, after Henry Bergh persuaded the New York State Legislature to pass an anti-cruelty law and grant a charter for the new organization. Bergh's efforts were influenced by his observations of the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals during travels in Europe. In its early years, the organization focused on intervening in cases of abuse against working animals, particularly horses in the streets of Manhattan. A landmark early achievement was the 1867 prosecution of a Brooklyn shipmaster for cruelty to livestock, establishing important legal precedent. Throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the organization expanded its focus to include sheltering, the conditions in slaughterhouses, and the use of animals in vivisection. The society played a key role in the development of the first humane law enforcement agency in the U.S. and influenced the passage of the Animal Welfare Act of 1966.

Mission and activities

The organization's mission is to provide effective means for the prevention of cruelty to animals throughout the United States. Its core activities encompass a wide range of direct care and systemic advocacy programs. These include operating a full-service animal hospital and adoption center in New York City, managing a national animal poison control center, and running a large-scale behavioral rehabilitation center for dogs victimized by animal fighting. The society also engages in national disaster response for animals, most notably during events like Hurricane Katrina and Hurricane Sandy. Its Field Investigations and Response team assists in large-scale animal cruelty and neglect cases, often working with local sheriffs' departments and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

Organizational structure

Headquartered in New York City, the organization is governed by a Board of directors and led by a president and chief executive officer, a position held by Matthew Bershadker since 2013. It operates through several major divisions, including Community Medicine, Anti-Cruelty, and Government Relations. The society has a significant presence in Washington, D.C. for federal legislative advocacy and maintains regional programs and partnerships across the country. It is a independent nonprofit, distinct from local SPCA organizations, though it often provides them with grants, training, and support.

Notable campaigns and initiatives

The organization has launched numerous high-profile national campaigns to raise awareness and change practices related to animal welfare. A major ongoing initiative is its fight against puppy mills, which includes public education, corporate persuasion, and support for legislation like the Puppy Protection Act. The "Adopt, Don't Shop" campaign encourages pet adoption from shelters and rescue groups. Other significant efforts include the "No Pet Store Puppies" campaign, advocacy for cage-free policies for laying hens, and the "Right Horse Initiative" to improve adoption of horses from the equine welfare community. The society also runs the ASPCA Humane Awards to recognize animal heroes and advocates.

Financial information and funding

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, the organization is funded primarily through private donations, including gifts from individuals, foundations, and corporations. Its financial activities are detailed in an annual report and audited financial statements filed with regulators. A significant portion of its budget is allocated to program services, which include animal health services, anti-cruelty operations, and public education. The society has been rated by Charity Navigator and other watchdog groups, which assess its financial health, accountability, and transparency. Major fundraising efforts include direct mail campaigns, telemarketing, and events like the annual Bergh Ball in New York City.

Criticism and controversies

The organization has faced criticism on several fronts, often related to its fundraising practices, financial allocations, and public stances. Some critics, including other animal welfare groups, have argued that its high-profile advertising campaigns oversimplify complex issues like shelter euthanasia. It has also been scrutinized for the proportion of its budget spent on direct animal care versus fundraising and administrative costs. In 2013, a lawsuit filed by Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus alleged that the society and other groups had paid witnesses in litigation under the Endangered Species Act; the case was later settled. The organization's stance on certain legislative issues, such as breed-specific legislation, has also drawn debate within the broader animal rights movement.

Category:Animal welfare organizations in the United States Category:Organizations based in Manhattan Category:Organizations established in 1866