AISPA, the Anglo-Italian Society for the Protection of Animals, is a non-profit organization based in the United Kingdom. Founded in 1952 following the death of animal welfare pioneer Leonard Hawksley, this organization has dedicated its existence to improving the conditions of wild and domestic animals in Italy and around the world.
It all began back in 1890 when Leonard Hawksley, a young Englishman of just twenty years old, embarked on a journey to Italy, unaware of the role fate had in store for him. Little did he know that he would be remembered as one of the pioneers of animal protection in this country. Upon arriving in Naples, he soon discovered the cruelties that were being perpetrated against animals at that time. Horses and mules were constantly mistreated, forced to work with bits reinforced with nails and relentlessly beaten.
It was there that Hawksley decided to begin his reform mission, transforming the “Neapolitan Society against Cruelty to Animals” into the “Neapolitan Society for the Protection of Animals,” eventually assuming its leadership in 1909. In 1901, a few years earlier, he had already organized a group of 40 inspectors in Rome whose task was to travel mainly through the countryside to check on the conditions of animals.
His activism did not go unnoticed in Italy, and he faced many challenges, including the obstacle of organized crime. Hawksley was not just an activist; he distinguished himself as a brilliant reformer who fought for years for the introduction of animal protection laws. In 1912, he witnessed the approval of a law banning violent sports, and at the outbreak of World War I, he played a fundamental role in founding the Italian Blue Cross and 22 veterinary hospitals. He worked tirelessly in the field to save thousands of horses and mules used in the war.
The price Hawksley paid for his long battles was very high, and in 1931, exhausted, he decided to return to England, where he died in 1948. In Italy, he left an important legacy, with 22 animal protection associations founded by himself or with his valuable contribution.
When asked why he devoted so much to animals in a country that was not his own, Hawksley always replied: “animals have no nationality.” In 1952, the “Hawksley Society for the Protection of Animals and Birds in Italy” became the “Anglo-Italian Society for the Protection of Animals,” and his pioneering spirit continues to live on in this organization to this day.
Leonard Hawksley’s contribution to animal protection is an example of dedication and altruism that still inspires today. His story demonstrates how a determined individual can bring about significant changes to improve the lives of animals and promote their welfare. In Italy, there are many projects supported by this wonderful association, from the Italian League for Animal Rights (branches in Olbia and Sassari) to LIPU UK (Italian League for Bird Protection) in the United Kingdom. The main objectives of AISPA are: • Providing financial assistance to animal shelters • Funding programs for the sterilization of strays • Financing medicines and surgical equipment • Sponsoring veterinary training • Donating rescue vehicles
Additionally, the organization offers individuals the opportunity to lend their support through donations and fundraising efforts. Its mission to improve the conditions of wild and domestic animals deserves our ongoing support, as it demonstrates that even a small non-profit organization can make a difference in the world. Supporting animal protection is a tangible demonstration of compassion and commitment to the cause, in line with Leonard Hawksley’s important legacy. As his story shows, there are no boundaries when it comes to defending animals because “animals have no nationality.”
For more information about the association, visit the official website https://aispa.org.uk.
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