ASPCA Joined By California Lawmakers to Support Animal Adoption

NEW YORK— The ASPCA^® (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) today invited residents from across the state to an animal adoption event at California ‘Voices for Animals Day,’ where they had the opportunity to engage state lawmakers in support of humane legislation. Advocates met with legislators to discuss issues impacting the welfare of California’s animals, including A.B. 2326, sponsored by Assemblyman Roger Dickinson (D-Sacramento), a bill that would provide a modest tax deduction for adoption fees. Local shelter and rescue groups were on hand at the Sacramento event with adoptable animals.

“The ASPCA is proud to host this event to provide citizen advocates with an opportunity to engage their local representatives on the importance of animal adoption and show our appreciation to the local rescue workers who care for the hundreds of thousands of animals that enter California shelters each year,” said Kevin O’Neill, senior state director of ASPCA Government Relations for the Western region. “Californians have long been leaders on animal welfare issues, so we are thrilled to honor that passion and help local shelter pets find new homes.”

On Tuesday, the ASPCA announced that it will make a $25 million, multi-year commitment to save the lives of animals in the greater Los Angeles metropolitan area. Building on the strong foundation created by Los Angeles’ existing local animal welfare community, the ASPCA will work closely with the leading local animal welfare groups to provide residents and rescue groups a variety of critical services that will save lives and help keep families and their pets together.

“It’s imperative we do all we can to keep pets out of shelters and in their homes, and find innovative ways to facilitate successful adoptions. Good legislation can help address both these issues,” said Matt Bershadker ASPCA President and CEO. “Bringing together citizens and their representatives is the best way to let our leaders know that animal welfare issues are important, and that real solutions are within reach.”

In 2013, the ASPCA worked with California lawmakers on the successful passage of five animal-friendly laws. These news laws removed obstacles for local jurisdictions to construct dog parks, increased protections for wildlife, and tightened restrictions on the sale of live animals at specific venues including swap meets.

For more information about the ASPCA, or to join their Advocacy Brigade, please visit www.aspca.org.