Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals
The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA[note 1]) is a charity in England and Wales that promotes animal welfare. Money for the group comes from donations. It is one of the largest charities in the UK, with an income of £100 million in 2005.
History
The group began as the SPCA in 1824.[1] Since then, it has inspired the creation of similar, but independent organisations in other regions:
- Ulster Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals in Northern Ireland
- Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals in Scotland
- Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Australia) in Australia
- Royal New Zealand Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals in New Zealand
- American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals in the United States
Not only that, there are also many other countries who have participated in this effort to prevent cruelty not only against domestic pets but also to other almost extinct or endangered wildlife.
Royal Society For The Prevention Of Cruelty To Animals Media
A painting of the trial of Bill Burns, showing Richard Martin with the donkey in an astonished courtroom, leading to the world's first known conviction for animal cruelty, after Burns was found beating his donkey. It was a story that delighted London's newspapers and music halls.