by Ann E. Smith

Created on: December 09, 2008   Last Updated: December 12, 2008

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) is an international organization focused on helping all kinds of animals in every way possible. This charitable organization, for example, helps find homes for dogs and cats, campaigns diligently for humane treatment of animals, sends teams to natural disaster locations to help displaced animals, and provides a 24-hour hotline for people who need to report cases of animal cruelty. The tireless efforts of this group have vastly contributed to the welfare of animals all over the world.

The RSPCA has strong footing in the UK, where its national headquarters are located, and where regional and local branches are prevalent. Founded in London in 1824, this group was revolutionary in its concept of advocating the treatment of animals with compassion. Prior to that time, animals were viewed more as work horses, livestock or property. That may seem alien to people today, but much has changed in the attitudes toward animals.

To this day, the RSPCA passionately strives for compassionate treatment of all kinds of animals, whether they be companions such as dogs, animals used in research, or livestock from farms. The scope of services this organization provides is vast indeed, yet it is all accomplished through the assistance of others, as this is a charitable group.

If you live in the UK, you will find a great online resource at the RSPCA site (http://www.rspca.org.uk). You can go there to keep abreast of what this organization is currently focusing on or to find out ways you can contribute to the cause.

This web site also can connect you to animals for adoption or offer various kinds of useful information, including ways to order publications of the RSPCA. When looking through the site, you will get a better idea the many ways that the RSPCA reaches out to accomplish its mission.

It's truly amazing that the ideas of a small group of people, in this case the 22 founders of this organization, can impact the lives of millions of animals through the years. It's heart-warming to see the tremendous growth of this group, and to see that people are so willing to give their time, efforts and money to take care of the lovely animals with whom people share this earth.

Thanks to the RSPCA, animals can better be protected from evil acts, and people can better be informed of ways they can make a difference. When animal lovers unite, a lot of good things can happen. The RSPCA is a case in point.

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