The years immediately following the end of the Civil War reforms came thick and fast, and one of the most interesting reformers was Henry Bergh, founder of the ASPCA. His aim was to eradicate injustice and alleviate suffering, and his daily encounters with cruelty against working animals and pets made him believe he must save them, although in truth he did not like them all that much. Bergh knew how to convince lawmakers, and soon had professional agents enforcing laws across the state, developed animal shelters from the nightmarish "dog pounds," and partnered with the media to educate the public (especially children) about humane treatment. The ASPCA movement spread quickly and engendered similar efforts for humane treatment of children. The authors are officers in the ASPCA. Annotation ©2008 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)