The Anti-Cruelty Society

Overview

The Anti-Cruelty Society is a nonprofit animal welfare organization located in Chicago, Illinois, USA. Founded in 1899, it is one of the oldest and largest such organizations in the United States. The society focuses on preventing cruelty to animals, advancing humane education, and building a community where pets and people thrive together.

History

The Anti-Cruelty Society was established on January 19, 1899, by a group of Chicago residents who were concerned about animal welfare. Rosa Fay Thomas, wife of Theodore Thomas, the founder and first music director of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, served as the society's first president. The organization's early efforts included improving the living and working conditions of workhorses, providing humane education, and addressing child welfare cases. In 1904, they opened their first small animal shelter. By 1905, they had installed watering troughs throughout Chicago for workhorses. The society received a charter from the State of Illinois in 1906, allowing it to conduct protective work for both animals and children.

Mission and Vision

The Anti-Cruelty Society's mission is to build a healthy and happy community where pets and people thrive together. Their vision is to create a humane Chicago for pets and people. The organization operates through donations, sponsorships, and volunteer efforts, providing services such as adoption, veterinary care, and education programs.

Services

• Adoption: The society organizes annual events like "Clear The Shelters" where adoption fees are waived, promoting animal adoptions.
• Clinic: They operate a high-volume spay/neuter clinic, performing thousands of surgeries annually and facilitating adoptions.
• Volunteer Program: Established in 1976, the program engages volunteers in various activities supporting animal welfare.
• Mobile Vaccination Clinic: Since 1986, they have offered free exams and vaccinations to pets in disadvantaged areas.

Impact

The Anti-Cruelty Society is recognized for its significant role in Chicago's animal welfare landscape. Their efforts include community engagement, public education, and support for pet owners. They also host major fundraising events like BARK to support their activities and serve thousands of animals annually.

Recent Developments

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the society expanded support for pet owners, including distributing pet food and enhancing veterinary access. They also promoted fostering due to increased shelter intakes and capacity constraints. In 2014, they supported Chicago's Anti-Puppy Mill Ordinance to prevent animals from large-scale breeding operations from being overlooked in shelters.