The RSPCA

Keeping the United Kingdom's Animal Kingdom safe!

The RSPCA is the collective name for Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. And that is what they do - prevent cruelty to animals. The RSPCA's vision of the world is to help work it out so that humans and animals all get along. It is a registered charity even though it hasn’t got any lottery funds.*

In 1822, a man called Richard Martain started the first anti-cruelty campaign by giving cows, horses and sheep protection through the Parliament. This meant they could not be hunted, for example. He was only one of the 22 founders. Back then it was known as the SPCA, the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. It was launched in 1824. The SPCA became the first animal protection group in the world!

There were 181 convictions for animal cruelty achieved in 1832. In fact, by 1840 the SPCA became the “R”SPCA because of Queen Victoria's high regard!

2006 will go down in history as the year that animal cruelty changed. Animal Welfare Act was passed by Parliament and now anyone who owns an animal has the duty to care for it. This is the biggest change to animal welfare for over 100 years. We can celebrate the RSPCA's work and our responsibility to animals!

I think if Richard Martain were still alive he would be pleased with the world’s work. Not just the RSPCA - who have done a fantastic job - but to us, for caring for animals! We can all start supporting the RSPCA and help animals. You can adopt one, care for your pets, and report bad care and abuse to the proper authorities. Thank you for reading, and thank you to the RSPCA!

- Sophie, 12, United Kingdom

*Editor's Note - many charities in England are funded by a national lottery.