Our History

The ISPCA is a national charity established on the 4th of May 1949, by a group of committed volunteers from across Ireland. Since then, the ISPCA has worked locally and nationally to rescue, rehabilitate and responsibly re-home thousands of cruelly treated and neglected animals of all different species. The Society is the umbrella organisation for 14 affiliated local animal welfare organisations and as such provides training and support to a dedicated and committed core of volunteers.

The ISPCA’s initial focus was on preventing animal cruelty and promoting animal welfare, primarily through public education and awareness campaigns. Over the years, our scope expanded, and the organisation began to provide direct services to animals in need. The ISPCA established animal rescue and rehabilitation Centres throughout Ireland, which provided care to sick, injured, and abandoned animals.

Over the years we have worked hard to advocate for the needs of animals by taking concrete action through our Inspectorate Service. Our advocacy has brought stronger animal protection laws in Ireland, ensuring long-term solutions for animal welfare across this nation.

A high level of animal welfare goes beyond preventing abuse, alleviating suffering or caring for animals in distress. We work hard to educate the public and Irish society in general that animals are an integral part of our lives, and that they deserve a good quality of life at all times.