🟩 Animal Welfare & Wildlife Protection
Championing the humane treatment of animals and the protection of wildlife through advocacy, rescue, education, and citizen action.
Animal welfare and wildlife protection advocates work to stop cruelty, improve living conditions for domestic and farm animals, and safeguard the habitats of wild species. Their efforts range from direct rescue work to shaping laws, influencing corporate policies, and restoring ecosystems.
Many of these organizations offer practical ways for citizens to help—whether by volunteering in rescues, supporting wildlife habitat projects, taking part in campaigns, or pushing for stronger laws. They also provide information and tools for making personal choices that support animal well-being and environmental balance.
Looking for more ways to make a difference?
This resource is part of my continuing series of issue advocacy guides at Plainly, Garbl. You’ll find 60 more—including voting rights, executive overreach, environmental protection, worker rights, peace and diplomacy, education, and disaster relief—at Advocacy Groups by Issue. Check back occasionally for new issues and updated guides.
People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA)
The world’s largest animal rights group uses high-profile campaigns, investigations, and public outreach to challenge cruelty in entertainment, food, fashion, and labs. Supporters can join protests, share viral content, and pressure companies to adopt humane policies.
Formerly the Humane Society, it works for systemic change in animal welfare through lawmaking, corporate reform, and direct rescue operations for pets, farm animals, and wildlife. Citizens can lobby lawmakers, back ballot measures, and help with hands-on rescue and recovery after natural disasters.
National Wildlife Federation (NWF)
Protects wildlife and natural habitats through conservation programs, education, and local action. People can join habitat restoration projects, participate in citizen science, and work with state affiliates to defend endangered species.
Focuses on protecting native species and the habitats they depend on, using policy, litigation, and fieldwork. Volunteers and advocates can help promote coexistence strategies, defend environmental laws, and support science-based recovery plans.
American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA)
Prevents and responds to cruelty against companion animals while promoting adoption and humane legislation. Supporters can foster or adopt animals, help in rescue efforts, and advocate for stronger local and national animal protection laws.
Animal Welfare Institute (AWI)
Works to reduce animal suffering in farms, labs, the wild, and the pet trade through policy advocacy and education. People can back campaigns to close legal loopholes, improve enforcement, and promote humane alternatives in research and farming.
Defends wildlife, rivers, and public lands in the western U.S. through grassroots activism and legal action. Citizens can join restoration projects, take part in policy campaigns, and help challenge harmful development in sensitive habitats.
Focuses on ending the abuse of farm animals by driving corporate and legislative reforms for better living conditions. Supporters can join strategic campaigns targeting major food companies and help mobilize local advocacy teams.
Animal Legal Defense Fund (ALDF)
Uses the legal system to protect animals from abuse and neglect, influencing court decisions and laws. Volunteers can assist with legal research, join advocacy campaigns, and promote stronger animal protection statutes.
Runs certification programs for farms, zoos, aquariums, and film sets to ensure humane treatment and provides disaster relief for animals. People can support certified products, push for better industry standards, and assist in emergency animal rescue.
Top Related Issues
Factory Farming and Farm Animal Welfare – Addressing the cruelty, confinement, and environmental impacts of industrial animal agriculture.
Wildlife Conservation and Endangered Species – Protecting vulnerable species and restoring the habitats they need to survive.
Companion Animal Rescue and Cruelty Prevention – Reducing neglect and abuse while promoting adoption and responsible pet care.
Legal Protection and Animal Law Reform – Strengthening laws and enforcement to protect animals from harm.
Wild Animal Welfare – Exploring ways to reduce suffering among wild species caused by human activity and natural challenges.