La SPA — Société Protectrice des Animaux

La SPA (Société Protectrice des Animaux) was founded in Paris in 1845 and was recognised as an association d'utilité publique (public-interest charity) in 1860, making it one of the oldest animal protection organisations in the world. Today it runs a national network of 62 refuges and Maisons SPA across France, caring for dogs, cats, horses and other equines, small pets and farm animals.

In 2025 La SPA took in 42,373 animals — including more than 27,000 cats and 12,000 dogs — and found new homes for 39,538 of them, with a return rate of just 2.4%. Its foster network looked after more than 9,500 animals during the year. The charity's 12 dispensaries provide veterinary care for animals belonging to owners in financial difficulty, treating over 46,000 animals in 2025.

La SPA also fights cruelty and neglect. In 2025 it rescued 3,626 animals from mistreatment, handled around 20,000 reports, took part in more than 200 court-ordered seizures, filed around 230 complaints and joined over 350 court cases as a civil party. It supports smaller associations with grants, works with local authorities to sterilise and identify stray cats, and runs school talks and youth clubs to promote animal welfare.

Volunteers can help at refuges across the country, and donations can be made online through the official donation site. La SPA is registered under SIREN 775 691 991.