Since its inception in 1866, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) has protected animals from abuse and neglect through behavioral programs, animal welfare research, veterinary care, and disaster response. In a January 2024 press release, the ASPCA announced that its supporters voted addressing cruelty and disaster response related to assisting animals in crisis and ending their suffering as the most pressing issue for the organization.
The ASPCA collected responses from 20,000 supporters. The responses help shape the work the organization will delve into in 2024, aiming to meet the needs of all the animals living in substandard and critical situations.
In 2023, the ASPCA rescued animals during and after natural disasters such as the Maui wildfires and rescue efforts in Wisconsin, Texas, and Louisiana. The ASPCA collaborated with other organizations, including the Cruelty Recovery Center and the Behavioral Rehabilitation Center.
For 2024, the ASPCA plans to connect with families and communities to make animal cruelty and disaster response a priority.
