On Wednesday, April 24, animal advocates from across the Golden State gathered at the Capitol in Sacramento to make their voices heard for stronger animal-protection legislation at the sixth annual Paws for California.

This event highlights the incredible work that California’s shelters and rescues do for their communities. It also reminds lawmakers just how critical these establishments are by bringing advocates and adoptable animals straight to the steps of the Capitol.

Throughout the day, representatives from the ASPCA’s Government Relations and Relocation teams spoke to advocates and legislative staff about the work we’re doing on the West Coast and about two priority bills pending in the State Legislature: A.B. 1565, which seeks waive the three-day holding period for shelter kittens under eight weeks of age so they can be fostered or adopted more quickly by the public, and A.B. 415, which will help remove housing barriers for victims of domestic violence and their pets. 

Assemblymembers Maienschein and Quirk both attended the event and delivered remarks. 

“Since being elected to the Assembly, I have had the privilege of working with ASPCA on several pieces of legislation, many of which have been signed into law,” said Assemblymember Brian Maienschein. “This year, we are partnering on A.B. 415, which will provide compensation for domestic violence victims who are relocating with their pets. I have always been an advocate for the safety, welfare and health of animals, and look forward to more partnerships in the future.”

Paws for California also featured an adoption fair where eventgoers were treated to cuddles from 10 adoptable dogs and four adoptable birds from six local animal adoption organizations. And that’s not all! The ASPCA’s Relocation van parked in front of the Capitol and provided photo ops for animal lovers attending the event. 

By the end of the day, several hundred people had made their way through the event—a handful even filled out applications to foster some deserving cats and dogs! 

We want to thank the lawmakers, advocates and rescue groups who joined us at this exciting and important event. We also want to thank our supporters in California (and nationwide!) for standing by our side as we fight to protect animals.

If you haven’t yet, please join the ASPCA Advocacy Brigade to stay up to date on fun and informational events near you.