 | |
Guiding Principles
The ASPCA is guided today by the same belief on which it was founded in 1866, that animals are entitled to kind and respectful treatment at the hands of humans, and that this is not to be left to the compassionate impulses of humans, but is an entitlement that must be protected under the law. Many things have changed in the 140 years since the ASPCA was chartered, but the ASPCA believes that society’s obligation toward animals remains. The ASPCA continues its traditional role of preventing cruelty by direct action of law enforcement. In addition, however, the ASPCA recognizes that achieving its vision of humane communities across the United States will require education, advocacy and other forms of intervention that support the beneficial relationship between people and animals.
The ASPCA has been and continues to be wholly committed to effecting change through nonviolent approaches. The ASPCA does not believe that threats, destruction of property or violence appropriately express the nature of a movement that endorses kindness and respect.
The ASPCA recognizes that the mistreatment of animals is often linked to the commission of other violent crimes, and that penalties for animal cruelty should reflect this link. The ASPCA believes that the successful prosecution of animal cruelty offenders should include fines, jail sentences and counseling to prevent additional acts of cruelty.
Although the ASPCA was founded to protect New York City’s working horses, its mission, as stated by Henry Bergh, has always included all animals in the United States. In 1866, the ASPCA was the only organization in North America dedicated to animal protection. Since that time, however, many additional humane organizations have been created to protect specific kinds of animals, such as farm animals, marine animals and wildlife. As a result, since 2001, the ASPCA has been able to focus on companion animals.
The ASPCA recognizes the value of the human/companion animal bond and the many advantages derived by both people and animals through this association, which includes both the keeping of appropriate animal companions and the use of assistance and service animals.
In gauging whether the treatment of animals in specific situations is humane, the ASPCA considers whether or not the animals’ physiological, behavioral, social and emotional needs can be fully met. The ASPCA is always as concerned with the welfare of individual animals as with the preservation of populations and species.
Donate Today
