For People, Pets and Vets: Yes on Prop 129

October 11, 2024

cat being examined by a vet

Election Day is coming up! In Colorado, the ballot includes an important measure that impacts pets: Proposition 129. Passage of this measure will help Coloradans better access the veterinary care their pets need. Of all the decisions Colorado voters will get to make on November 5, we hope voting YES on Prop 129 is an easy one!

Proposition 129: Good for People, Pets and Vets

Colorado’s veterinarian shortage has made it challenging and expensive to access care. Proposition 129 will help more pets receive medical attention by establishing a Veterinary Professional Associate (vet PA) role, which is similar to a Physician Associate (also shortened to PA) in human medicine. 

To become a vet PA, a person would earn a master’s degree in veterinary care, enabling them to provide appropriate veterinary services with the supervision of a licensed veterinarian. Like veterinarians, Vet PAs can examine animals, diagnose minor conditions and initiate treatment, among other things. With more trained professionals to treat patients, Colorado clinics can increase the availability of veterinary appointments.

Proposition 129 is supported by veterinary professionals and animal advocates throughout Colorado and many of the state’s trusted animal welfare organizations, including Dumb Friends League, Roice-Hurst Humane Society, Humane Society of the Pikes Peak Region, NoCo Humane and more.

Coloradans: Make a Plan and Vote Yes! 

Are you registered to vote? Here are some important Colorado-specific voter registration deadlines to be aware of as Election Day approaches:

Online registration deadline: Tuesday, November 5, before 7 p.m.
*Register online before October 28 to receive a mail-in ballot.

In-person registration deadline: Tuesday, November 5 (Election Day).

Check your voter registration status and register to vote >

Will you vote in person or by mail? It’s up to you! Mail-in ballots must be received by 7 p.m. on November 5.

Learn more about your voting options and other FAQ >

Whether you vote early or in-person, look for Proposition 129 on your Colorado ballot and VOTE YES!

Spread the Word

Prop 129 needs your voice! Animal advocates like you can help this critical measure pass. Tell your friends and family in Colorado about the Veterinary Professional Associate (vet PA) role and Prop 129, and urge them to vote yes. Here are three other ways you can help raise awareness and get out the vote:

  1. Share this blog on social media and encourage your networks to vote yes.

  2. Sign up to phone bank.
  3. Join our Colorado volunteer team.

Let the countdown begin!