Aleksandra Hammond-Seaman, a representative of the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA), visited the OIE Collaborating Centre for veterinary training, epidemiology, food safety and animal welfare on Thursday 17 February 2011. The meeting laid the groundwork for a possible collaboration between the oldest animal protection association and the G. Caporale Institute in Teramo. The organisation, its activities, the Institute's collaborations and some major current animal welfare research projects were presented to Ms Hammond-Seaman. Particular emphasis was given to canine and feline kennel management models which have been tested and validated by the Institute, and the RSPCA representative also studied the research, legislation and training support activities provided in all sectors of production to promote a correct relationship between animals and society.