The organisation – the second largest in the country, after the SPCA – has been caring for animals since 1956 and has facilities in major cities throughout the country. Its kennels in Johannesburg look after up to 300 lost, abandoned or stray dogs and cats every month and its adjoining animal hospital treats the animals of indigent owners – unemployed people, pensioners, and others who qualify as welfare beneficiaries. In addition, inspectors investigate cases of cruelty and mount rescue operations. They are on call 24 hours a day. The AACL also runs educational programmes in schools, teaching more than 40 000 learners every year how to care for animals and the need to protect all species. And they run an annual artwork competition for learners, to raise awareness of animal welfare issues.