The Nova Scotia SPCA is recognized as providing expert leadership in the areas of advocacy and protection of companion animals and sets the standard of animal care for the province of Nova Scotia; the Nova Scotia SPCA operates on a philosophy of zero tolerance for animal cruelty. The Nova Scotia Society for the Prevention of Cruelty (Nova Scotia SPCA) has been protecting animals from cruelty since 1877, the Nova Scotia SPCA is a registered charity and has 11 Branches which rely primarily on volunteers and donations to fund cruelty prevention; animal rescue, rehabilitation, seeking justice, and education. The Act to Protect Animals and Aid Animals in Distress mandates the Society to enforce animal cruelty laws, making the Nova Scotia SPCA unique among animal welfare organizations in the province. The Nova Scotia SPCA also the distinction of being founded as the first place in North America to pass laws for the prevention of cruelty to animals.