We oppose killing companion animals & support ZERO-Kill

 As advocates for the humane treatment of all companion animals, the California Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, Inc. (California SPCA) stands firmly against the killing of any companion animal that is not experiencing irremediable suffering. Our organization is committed to saving lives, fostering compassion, and advocating for policies that honor the intrinsic value and worth of every living being.

The traditional practice of killing, used by many shelters to manage their inventory  of companion animals, is ethically and morally concerning. California SPCA asserts that ending a companion animal's life solely due to space limitations, behavioral challenges, or lack of resources fails to meet the standards of humane treatment. Companion animals are complex, sentient beings capable of joy, companionship, and resilience. When given the opportunity for rehabilitation, behavioral support, or medical treatment, many animals once labeled “unadoptable” have shown remarkable transformations and gone on to live healthy, fulfilling lives.

Irremediable suffering occurs when an animal is experiencing a condition causing constant, severe pain or distress, and when no medical intervention can alleviate this suffering. For animals in such cases, humane euthanasia may be the compassionate choice to prevent prolonged and unnecessary pain. However, any companion animal not in this state of irremediable suffering deserves the chance to find refuge, healing, and, ultimately, a home.

1. Encourages Humane and Compassionate Practices
   Killing companion animals who could otherwise recover, heal, and thrive is not aligned with humane values. A zero-kill philosophy drives a culture that respects and values every life, providing shelter staff, volunteers, and communities with a compassionate framework to care for animals in need.
2. Reduces Emotional and Psychological Impact on Staff and Volunteers
   Repeatedly killing animals can take a significant emotional toll on shelter staff and volunteers. Creating a policy that prevents unnecessary killing supports the mental well-being of staff and fosters a more positive environment within shelters.
3. Reflects Modern Scientific Understanding of Animal Behavior and Health
   Advances in veterinary medicine and companion animal behavior have given shelters the resources and knowledge to address complex health and behavioral issues that were once seen as untreatable. California SPCA believes in leveraging these tools and approaches to rehabilitate animals, not end their lives prematurely.
4. Aligns with Public Sentiment and Taxpayer/Donor Expectations
   Increasingly, the public supports zero-kill policies and expects shelters to do everything in their power to save community companion animals. This includes feral and unsocial free-roaming cats that are of domestic cat breeds. Communities value transparency and accountability and want assurance that their local shelters operate with a focus on life-saving practices.
5. Empowers Community and Volunteer Engagement
   When shelters commit to saving every animal not experiencing irremediable suffering, they often receive increased support from volunteers, foster families, and community members. This support allows shelters to expand their resources, build partnerships, and, ultimately, save more lives.

To achieve this vision, California SPCA calls on all animal shelters, rescue organizations, and humane societies to adopt a comprehensive ZERO-kill policy that prevents the killing of any companion animal not in irremediable suffering. This approach includes:

• Expanded Foster Programs: Increasing foster care resources allows animals to recover in home environments, especially those requiring special medical or behavioral care, until they are ready for adoption.
• Behavioral and Medical Rehabilitation Programs: Providing animals with targeted support—such as behavior training, enrichment, and medical care—equips them to overcome obstacles that might otherwise label them “unadoptable.”
• Community-Based Adoption Outreach: Engaging communities through adoption events, micro-adoption sites, and partnerships can expand an animal's exposure to potential adopters and reduce shelter intake.
• Public Education and Advocacy: Educating the community about the benefits of a ZERO-kill approach, responsible pet ownership, and the importance of sterilization can foster a more informed and supportive public.

California SPCA is dedicated to fostering a culture that values life and respects the dignity of all animals. We will continue to work with shelters, communities, and lawmakers to advocate for policies that prioritize the well-being of animals, oppose unnecessary killing, and ensure that only animals experiencing irremediable suffering are considered for humane euthanasia. Through this commitment, we strive to create a world where every animal has the chance to live a life free from suffering and filled with compassion.

California SPCA opposes the killing of any companion animal that is not in irremediable suffering and urges shelters across the state and beyond to embrace this life-affirming approach. Together, we can build a future where every animal is given the opportunity to heal, thrive, and find a loving home.