Britain is sometimes called "a nation of animal lovers". About a quarter of UK households own a dog and a similar share own a cat. Owners are required by law to look after their pets — providing food, water, shelter, exercise and veterinary care — under the Animal Welfare Act 2006. Cruelty to animals is a criminal offence. The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) was founded in 1824 and was the world's first such organisation.
Further reading: an editorial guide on this topic opens in a new window for additional context.
Wildlife is protected by a range of laws and by charities such as the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB), the Wildlife Trusts and the National Trust. Several species — including red squirrels, otters and many birds of prey — are legally protected.
You may be asked which charity protects birds (the RSPB), or what the RSPCA does.
Test yourself on this topic
These questions from the official-format question bank cover the same material. Tap any question to see the correct answer and a short explanation.
Keep going
- Read the full study notes for Modern Society.
- Try a practice test on this chapter.
- Sit a full 24-question timed mock.
- Browse the complete library of topic explainers.
Related topic explainers
Classical Music in Britain
Elgar, Britten, Vaughan Williams and the Proms — Britain's contribution to classical music.
Horse Racing in the UK
Royal Ascot, the Grand National and a sport of kings.
English, Dialects and Accents
Cockney, Geordie, Scouse and the rich variety of regional accents across the UK.
Universities in Britain
Oxford, Cambridge, the Russell Group and 130 universities open to UK and international students.