Are you an animal lover? If so, you’re probably familiar with the foundation we’re focusing on today called the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, better known by its acronym ASPCA. This non-profit organization has dedicated itself to preventing animal cruelty for over 100 years and has remained steadfast in its mission “to provide effective means for the prevention of cruelty to animals throughout the United States” since its formation in 1866.
The ASPCA was formed in 1824 by Henry Bergh in response to the creation of the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) in the United Kingdom. It remains the oldest animal welfare organization in the country and it was the first humane organization to emerge in the Western Hemisphere. Thanks to Bergh’s efforts, the first anti-cruelty law was passed on April 19, 1866.
With an initial goal of improving the welfare and health of animals, the ASPCA opened its first animal hospitals in 1912. Since then, the ASPCA has managed to spearhead breakthroughs in technology and medicine, including anesthesia for animals and open-heart surgery in 1918 and 1961, respectively. Besides its hospitals and ongoing anti-cruelty efforts, the ASPCA also provides pets and parents services and programs for at-risk animals.
For more information on the ASPCA or to donate, please visit https://www.aspca.org/.
This foundation featured on The Jills Giving is one of the many unique foundations supported by The Jills team which includes Jill Eber, Jill Hertzberg, Hillary Hertzberg, Danny Hertzberg, and Felise Eber. The Jills team strongly believes in giving back and we encourage you to visit The Jills Giving website to learn more about the various foundations we support as well as a little bit about the team.