PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) is one of the largest and most influential animal rights organizations in the world. Founded in 1980 and based in Norfolk, Virginia, PETA is a non-profit organization dedicated to establishing and protecting the rights of all animals.

With more than 6.5 million members and supporters globally, PETA's mission is to end animal suffering by exposing and combating cruelty to animals through public education, research, investigations, legislation, protests, and rescue efforts. The organization campaigns against practices that it considers inhumane, including fur farming, factory farming, animal testing for consumer products, and the use of animals for entertainment purposes.

PETA employs a variety of attention-grabbing tactics to raise awareness and promote its causes, such as organizing provocative demonstrations, launching shocking advertising campaigns, and conducting high-profile undercover investigations into industries and practices that exploit animals. These efforts have helped to shut down puppy mills, push companies to stop animal testing, and influence the food industry to offer more vegan options.

In addition to its advocacy work, PETA operates a number of programs and services aimed at protecting animals and promoting compassionate living. This includes operating mobile spay/neuter clinics, sponsoring educational programs in schools, providing free straw and other bedding for dogs living outdoors, and offering free veggie/vegan starter kits to those interested in pursuing a cruelty-free lifestyle.

While PETA's confrontational tactics have drawn both praise and criticism over the years, the organization remains a powerful voice for animal rights and a driving force behind significant changes in societal attitudes and corporate policies related to the ethical treatment of animals.