The Alberta Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Alberta SPCA) is a registered charity dedicated to the welfare of animals. It enforces Alberta's Animal Protection Act and offers humane education programs throughout the province. The Alberta SPCA has been at the forefront of animal welfare advances since being established in 1959. It was instrumental in the 1967 enactment of the Animal Protection Act of Alberta, and it employs 12 peace officers to enforce that law throughout the province. The Alberta SPCA is governed by a volunteer board of directors and works closely with other agencies in animal welfare, agriculture, education, violence prevention, and other areas to provide the best level of protection for animals. The Alberta SPCA operates with the support of members, donors, volunteers and the general public, who can report suspected incidents of animal abuse and neglect. All donations to the Alberta SPCA are used to support its programs in Alberta.