Animal Welfare Investigations Project

The Animal Welfare Investigations Project (AWIP) is an animal welfare organization dedicated to investigating organized cruelty, rescuing animals and helping bring offenders to justice. Its work focuses on dog fighting, cock fighting, puppy mills and illegal breeding, as well as the cat and dog meat trade. AWIP’s investigators and analysts trace the networks behind these activities and gather evidence intended to support prosecutions.

Because AWIP does not have law enforcement powers, it works with police, other law enforcement agencies and local authorities. When evidence supports action, its team can join authorities during warrant-led operations; rescued animals are taken to safety and receive veterinary care. The organization also supports stronger penalties and animal offender registries, and seeks to make animal cruelty carry serious consequences.

AWIP invites people to report suspected organized cruelty confidentially and offers ways to get involved, including petitions, fundraising, birthday pledges, membership and donations. Supporters can also shop with the organization, give in memory or send care packages.