The global animal welfare movement has roots stretching back centuries, evolving from early anti-cruelty societies to a sophisticated international network of organisations driving legislative and cultural change.
The history of animal welfare is a history of expanding moral concern. Each generation has extended the circle of moral consideration further — from horses and cattle, to dogs and cats, to farmed animals, to wild animals, to marine life and now to invertebrates. Progress has been uneven, with significant setbacks alongside genuine advances. Understanding this history provides perspective on current challenges and inspiration from past victories. The most durable welfare advances have come from combinations of cultural shift, scientific evidence about animal sentience, and legislative reform — recognising that all three are needed for lasting change.