The ASPCA the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals was the first humane society in North America, and remains one of the largest in the world today. Our founder, Henry Bergh, started the ASPCA in 1866 to provide effective means for the prevention of cruelty to animals throughout the United States. Today we are guided by the same belief on which we were founded that animals are entitled to respect and kindness and we work to achieve that vision by helping to pass laws that protect animals, educating the public about responsible pet ownership, teaching children how to be humane, and supporting shelters all across the country with their efforts. We also take an active role in fighting animal cruelty; you may have seen our Humane Law Enforcement agents cracking down on animal abuse in New York City on Animal Planet's Animal Precinct.