WSPA has launched the "Animals Matter To Me" campaign and is seeking 10 million signatures to let the governments of the world know we are serious about achieving a Universal Declaration on Animal Welfare at the United Nations.

The Universal Declaration on Animal Welfare will be an agreement among people and between nations to recognize the sentience of animals, respect their welfare needs and bring an end to animal cruelty and maintains that:

(1) The welfare of animals shall be a common objective for all nations;

(2) The standards of animal welfare attained by each nation shall be promoted, recognized and observed by improved measures, nationally and internationally, respecting social and economic considerations and religious and cultural traditions;

(3) All appropriate steps shall be taken by nations to prevent cruelty to animals and to reduce their suffering;

(4) Appropriate standards on the welfare of animals be further developed and elaborated such as, but not limited to, those governing the use and management of farm animals, companion animals, animals in scientific research, draught animals, wildlife animals and animals in recreation.

For more information, to view a complete copy of the draft Declaration in a pdf file or to sign the petition, click here World Society for the Protection of Animals.

The ASPCA also has a place on their website to sign the petition.