When was animal abuse first recognized?

Good people have always understood that animals should not be mistreated. however the first organisation dedicated to the protection of animals was formed in Britain.In 1822, Richard Martin MP got the first anti-cruelty bill, giving cattle, horses and sheep a degree of protection through parliament. this is where the SPCA later to become known as the RSPCA had its begining. (see the link below for more details)