San José: Rebuild Spay-Neuter / TNR Access For Public
Santa Clara County—one of California’s most populous regions with 1.86 million residents—is facing an avoidable animal overpopulation crisis. Yet San José, the largest city in the county, spent just $2,400 on public spay/neuter in 2024. That’s out of a $5 billion city budget—while Santa Clara County’s overall budget totals $12.5 billion, the allocations for public Spay-Neuter and Trap-Neuter Release (TNR) support are close to non-existent either.
San José dismantled its entire network of low-cost spay/neuter services during COVID, cutting off access for a city of over 1 million people. No partnerships, no vouchers, no public veterinary programs—despite rising stray populations, shelter overcrowding, and growing public health risks.
Meanwhile, the City recently passed Resolution No. RES2024-230,setting discounted fees for spay/neuter—but there’s still no funding or rollout plan. Even though data and investment proposals ADD LINK have been submitted by local advocates, there has been no city response.
This is not just about animals—this is a public health and community safety issue. When sterilization is inaccessible, animals reproduce rapidly. Shelters are overwhelmed, and intakes are being turned away. The situation is spiraling—and preventable.
What We’re Asking:
– Restore public funding for spay-neuter/TNR to pre-COVID levels
– Rebuild partnerships with local clinics and veterinarians
– Work jointly with Santa Clara County to establish a permanent, regional network
– Offer financial relief for struggling pet owners
– Publish regular progress and funding updates
– Treat animal services as a budget priority—not a forgotten line item
Let’s hold our city accountable. Speak up. Share. Sign. Show up.
Join the campaign to demand action and real investment in San José’s spay/neuter services.
Together, we can prevent suffering, protect our neighborhoods, and restore a vital public service our city once proudly led.
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