Our History

A new chapter for animal welfare in Ireland

The NSPCA was formed in October 2025, when two of Ireland’s best-known animal charities, the Dublin Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (DSPCA) and the Irish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ISPCA) came together to create a stronger, united voice for animals.

The merger united two of Ireland’s most established animal welfare organisations, combining over 250 years of collective experience in animal rescue, rehabilitation, rehoming, education and advocacy.

Together, we are building a stronger national organisation with one shared mission: to protect animals, prevent cruelty and create a kinder future for all animals in Ireland.

DSPCA

Originally established as the Dublin Auxiliary of the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, the organisation spent more than 180 years rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming animals while advocating for better welfare standards.

From its early work protecting working horses in Dublin to the development of its modern rescue campus in Rathfarnham, the DSPCA cared for generations of animals and helped shape animal welfare in Ireland.

Following the formation of the NSPCA in 2025, the DSPCA campus in Rathfarnham, Dublin became NSPCA headquarters, continuing a proud legacy of animal rescue, rehabilitation, rehoming, education and veterinary care.

ISPCA

Founded in 1949, the Irish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals became one of Ireland’s leading animal welfare organisations, operating nationally to prevent cruelty, rescue animals and promote responsible pet ownership.

Over the decades, the ISPCA developed a nationwide inspectorate service, established rescue and rehoming centres and delivered education programmes that helped improve animal welfare standards across Ireland.

The ISPCA played a vital role in responding to cruelty cases, supporting local welfare groups and advocating for stronger protections for animals.

Following the formation of the NSPCA in 2025, the former ISPCA National Animal Centre in Longford became NSPCA Longford, continuing its important role in rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming animals in need.

Looking back

For over 180 years, we have stood at the forefront of animal protection in Ireland. Discover the milestones that shaped our legacy and built a safer world for every creature.