Frequently asked questions
You can find answers to our most frequently asked questions by searching on a keyword or category on the right.
Alternatively, why not ask our virtual assistant Annie.
Concern about websites that encourage animal cruelty
The RSPCA frequently receives enquiries from individuals concerned about Internet websites that encourage animal exploitation and suffering. We share the public’s concern and frustration about these websites.
The international nature of the Internet and ease with which people can set up new websites make it hard to control Internet material. Unfortunately, the Internet isn’t controlled or regulated centrally so there is no central organisation to which you or we can complain.
The RSPCA is doing what it can to monitor Internet material concerning animals and to find ways of dealing with offensive material or specific events of animal cruelty. We aim to co-ordinate our activities with other animal welfare organisations wherever possible and understand that many US animal welfare groups are voicing their concerns to domain companies about offensive material. We very much hope that regulation of the Internet will improve rapidly in the near future.
If you see a website that encourages animal cruelty or exploitation, take these steps:
- Don’t contact the person running the site. Creators of offensive websites can be encouraged by the negative attention they receive in response to their site.
- Resist spreading the word. Telling friends and relatives about such websites will only increase the number of visitors to them and this encourages their creators.
- Contact the Internet Service Provider (ISP) hosting the site. In response to complaints they receive from concerned visitors, ISPs have removed sites in many cases. It's not easy to trace a website's ISP, although sometimes it is obvious from the URL/site address.
- Anyone wanting to complain about a website or Internet Service Provider (ISP) should contact their local Trading Standards office - see local telephone directory, listed under the local council.
- If you want to complain about an online advert then the Advertising Standards Authority is a suitable contact.
Advertising Standards Authority (ASA)
The Advertising Standards Authority is the independent body set up by the advertising industry to regulate the rules laid down in the advertising codes.
Mid City Place
71 High Holborn
London WC1V 6QT
Tel: 020 7492 2222
There are webforms on their website (www.asa.org.uk) for sending enquiries and making complaints.
See a list of our FAQs.
