On June 1st, California’s first-ever Adopt-a-Pet Day—a new official awareness day—saw 3,609 pets adopted into loving homes, nearly doubling its initial goal. The collaborative effort, organized by CalAnimals, the San Francisco SPCA, and the American SPCA, involved over 170 animal welfare organizations across the state coming together to address the needs of animals in shelters.
A Historic Day For California’s Animals
The inaugural Adopt-a-Pet Day was an unprecedented success, with 1,977 cats, 1,541 dogs, and 91 small animals like rabbits and guinea pigs finding homes. The ASPCA generously covered all adoption fees, making it easier for families to bring home a new pet without financial burden.
One heartwarming story from the event is that of Nelly, a 3.5-year-old mastiff mix. Nelly had spent a year and a half at Friends of the Alameda Animal Shelter before finally being adopted by Sahiba Singh, a resident of San Ramon. Singh drove 40 minutes to meet Nelly after seeing her on social media. Despite her shyness, Nelly quickly bonded with her new human, who described her as having a “perfect little lopsided face” and needing a quiet home, which Singh could provide. Now nicknamed Nelly Bean, the pup is thriving in her new environment.
The Impact Of Collaboration
Jill Tucker, CEO of CalAnimals, expressed her gratitude to Californians who visited their local shelters for the event. She emphasized the importance of adopting from shelters, which are often overcrowded with a variety of wonderful animals.
Dr. Jennifer Scarlett, CEO of the SF SPCA, highlighted the community’s response to the call to action. She noted that thousands of households are now enriched by having a special pet in their lives, and shelters received the support and attention they deserve.
Matt Bershadker, President and CEO of the ASPCA, also underscored the significance of the event. He praised the collaborative effort as a model for future initiatives aimed at saving more animals’ lives, emphasizing the power of the human-animal bond.
Challenges And Goals
California’s shelters have been facing challenges, including economic hardships, lack of affordable veterinary care, and difficulties in accessing pet-friendly housing. These issues have often led families to surrender their pets and have prevented many from adopting new ones. California has one of the highest rates of renters in the country, and housing remains a significant barrier for families wishing to keep or adopt pets.
The success of the first Adopt-a-Pet Day provides hope for the future. CalAnimals, supported by the SF SPCA and ASPCA, aims to continue this momentum with the next annual event, scheduled for June 2025. For those interested in adopting or fostering an animal, resources and information are available at ASPCA’s Rescue Effect.
References:
ASPCA press release: First-Ever California Adopt-a-Pet Day Finds Homes for 3,609 Pets, Nearly Doubles Goal
Good Good Good: Brand new holiday in California helps 3,600+ animals get adopted, nearly doubling goal
California Adopt-a-Pet Day
American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA)
San Francisco Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SF SPCA)
California Animal Welfare Association (CalAnimals)
