The oldest and most influential animal welfare organisation in the world was founded in 1824 by an Anglican vicar, Arthur Broome. He was helped by William Wilberforce MP, who also established the British and Foreign Bible Society. Queen Victoria was also a keen supporter of the movement.
For over 200 years, the RSPCA has been caring for animals and championing their cause all across the world. And it's all thanks to one man's desire to put biblical sayings about animal welfare into action.
Important verses
In 1822, Broome A Dissertation on the Duty of Mercy and the Sin of Cruelty to Brute Animals. The dissertation makes an extensive case from the Bible for kindness to animals.
It quotes dozens of texts, including Proverbs 12.10.
