The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA), founded in 1824, is the first animal protection organization in the world. It's mission is to prevent cruelty, promote kindness to and alleviate suffering of all animals. The organization manages about 40 clinics and more than 40 animal centers, as well as a handful of wildlife centers. Queen Victoria became the first British monarch to serve as the society's royal patron in 1840. Animals rescued by the RSPCA are treated, rehabilitated and rehomed or released wherever possible. In 2013 the society owned four animal hospitals and a number of clinics which provide treatments to those who could not otherwise afford it, neuter animals and accept animals from the RSPCA inspectorate.