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About Us

We Are Their Voice

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals ® (ASPCA ® ) was the first humane society to be established in North America and is, today, one of the largest in the world.

Our organization was founded on the belief that animals are entitled to kind and respectful treatment at the hands of humans and must be protected under the law. Headquartered in New York City, the ASPCA maintains a strong local presence, and with programs that extend our anti-cruelty mission across the country, we are recognized as a national animal welfare organization. We are a privately funded 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation, and are proud to boast more than 2 million supporters across the country.

The ASPCA’s mission, as stated by founder Henry Bergh in 1866, is “to provide effective means for the prevention of cruelty to animals throughout the United States.”





Matthew Bershadker Matthew Bershadker ASPCA President & CEO
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Helping vulnerable animals and keeping pets in safe and loving homes requires a commitment from all of us—advocates, pet owners, shelters, leaders, and entire communities. When we work together under a common cause, we’re both saving lives and elevating our society and its laws to ensure cruelty victims and other at-risk animals receive the protection and care they deserve.


The ASPCA by the Numbers*

545,000+
Animals Assisted
34,550+
Animals Relocated
401,550+
Animals Helped by
Animal Poison Control Center
43,740+
Spay/Neuter
Surgeries Performed

*January 1, 2021 - December 31, 2021