ACT NOW: Fix San José - Restore Spay/Neuter & TNR Access Now
- Feb 1
- 2 min read
Updated: 7 hours ago
Santa Clara County, one of California’s most densely populated regions with 1.86 million residents, is in the midst of an avoidable animal overpopulation crisis. Yet in 2024, San José, the county’s largest city, allocated just $2,400 toward public spay/neuter and Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) programs—out of a $5 billion city budget.
To make matters worse, Santa Clara County’s overall $12.5 billion budget offers almost no dedicated funding for public spay/neuter or TNR services either.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, San José completely dismantled its low-cost spay/neuter and TNR infrastructure, cutting off access for over 1 million residents. Since then, there have been no partnerships, no vouchers, no public vet programs—even as stray populations rise, shelters overflow, and public health risks increase.
The City recently passed Resolution No. RES2024-230, which promises discounted fees for spay/neuter services. But without funding or a rollout plan, it’s an empty promise.
Why This Matters:
This is more than an animal welfare issue. It’s about community safety, public health, and basic responsibility. Without accessible spay/neuter and TNR, unsterilized animals reproduce rapidly. Shelters are pushed past capacity. Sick and injured animals are left on the streets. The crisis is escalating—and preventable.
What We’re Demanding:
Restore funding for public spay/neuter and TNR to pre-COVID levels
Rebuild partnerships with local veterinary clinics and animal organizations
Collaborate with Santa Clara County to create a permanent, regional TNR and sterilization network
Provide financial assistance for pet owners and community cat caregivers
Ensure transparency with regular progress and budget updates
Prioritize animal services as an essential part of public policy—not a neglected line item
Get Involved:
Let’s hold our leaders accountable.Speak up. Share. Sign the petition. Show up at city meetings.Together, we can stop the suffering, support our communities, and restore a vital public service that San José once proudly led.
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