The organization was founded in 1984 by Hollywood actor Chris DeRose as a group to oppose vivisection.

In the organization's early years, DeRose led teams of activists employing non-violent strategies modeled after social movements led by such leaders as Mahatma Gandhi and Martin Luther King Jr. Last Chance for Animals seeks to eliminate animal exploitation through direct action, education, investigations, legislation, and media attention.

LCA opposes the use of animals in food and clothing production, scientific experimentation, and entertainment.

The organization also provides money and support for the animal rescue mission occurring in areas heavily affected by the 2011 tsunami in Japan.

"[1] In 2004, due to increased pressure from LCA supporters, the Supreme Court of New Jersey canceled the bear-hunting season before it started in December.