The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) was established in New York City in response to growing concerns about the treatment of animals, particularly urban working animals like horses. Henry Bergh, a social reformer and advocate for animal welfare, was instrumental in its founding. He witnessed firsthand the cruelty faced by horses used in local transportation and was motivated to take action to improve their conditions. The organization aimed to provide legal protection for animals and foster public awareness about the ethical treatment of all living beings.

In its early years, the ASPCA focused on branding itself as a guardian for abused and neglected animals, offering education about humane treatment and discouraging cruel practices. Bergh and his supporters championed legislation that would outlaw various forms of animal cruelty and established the first rigorous standards for humane treatment. One of the landmark achievements of the ASPCA under Bergh's leadership was the passage of the first anti-cruelty laws in the United States, which laid the groundwork for animal welfare legislation across the nation.

With its establishment, the ASPCA served as a model for similar organizations that emerged across the United States and beyond. Its impact stretched beyond just legal standards; it also transformed societal attitudes toward pets and working animals. Through advocacy and public education campaigns, the ASPCA began to shift public perception, promoting the idea that animals deserve compassion and care. Bergh’s vision and determination were pivotal in propelling animal welfare into public consciousness and ensuring that the rights of the voiceless were represented in legal frameworks.