Animal welfare is about what we humans do to ensure animals thrive. This includes all animals, both domestic and wild, but Animal Protection Norway believes that since humans have taken domestic animals out of their natural environment, it naturally follows that we have a special responsibility of care for them.
Organizations dedicated to animal welfare began to emerge as early as the beginning of the 19th century. The British organization The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) is the oldest and largest animal welfare organization in the world, established in Brighton, England, as far back as 1824.
Animal Protection Norway was established, inspired by the work of the RSPCA, and is today one of the world’s oldest animal welfare organizations. In Norway today, there are many organizations working with animal welfare, ranging from smaller organizations focused on practical animal welfare to larger organizations engaged in informational work for the public and decision-makers. Animal Protection Norway is Norway’s oldest and only nationwide animal welfare organization that provides practical assistance to animals in need.
Animal Protection Norway has been actively involved in animal welfare since 1859. Initially, the focus was on the conditions of workhorses and the transport of farm animals. Today, animals are used in intensive farming, entertainment, and experiments. In line with these societal developments, the organization has evolved to address an even broader range of issues. Our key priorities include homeless animals, the fur industry, the introduction of animal police, and the loss of sheep on pasture. These are key issues that are adopted annually during the organization’s national meeting.
Animal Protection Norway is proud to be an important voice for the voiceless
The challenges are vast and numerous, and Animal Protection Norway is proud to be an important voice for the voiceless in society through our animal welfare work. Animal Protection Norway’s slogan is “Respect for the individual,” based on paragraph 3 of the Animal Welfare Act, which states that animals have inherent value regardless of any utility they may have for humans.
Since 1859, Animal Protection Norway has actively worked with animal welfare, initially focusing on working horses. Today, animals are used in intensive farming, entertainment, and research. In line with this societal development, the organization has broadened its scope. The challenges are vast and numerous, and Animal Protection Norway is proud to be an important voice for the voiceless in society.