December 12, 2025

TIME SENSITIVE

MORE SPAY & NEUTER FUNDS AVAILABLE!

SEE BELOW FOR MORE INFORMATION

The vision behind the California Pet Lover's License Plate is being fulfilled every year. First launched in 2013, the plate was created by Judie Mancuso, Dr. Gary Michelson, and Linda Starr, with generous support from Keely and Pierce Brosnan—who also contributed his own artwork for the design. Its purpose is simple and powerful: to provide sustainable funding for low-cost and free spay and neuter programs across California.

If you don’t yet have your Pet Lover’s plate, please consider getting one at this link and help continue this life-saving work.

We are thrilled to announce that the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) will be granting out up to $500,000 in funding for the 2026 Pet Lover's License Plate Grant Program (Pet Lover's), which will mean over $2.5M dollars has now gone to spay and neuter!

Click HERE to read their press release with the announcement.

Applications for FUNDING are due by 5pm PT on Monday,

January 5, 2026.  

Attention Potential Applicants:


CDFA will conduct a webinar on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. PT, featuring an overview of the program and application process. Prospective applicants are encouraged to visit the program’s website for full details.

Please review the 2026 Request for Grant Proposals for detailed application instructions: Request For Grant Proposal - Guide On How To Apply.

Grant Proposal Applications must be submitted electronically to grants@cdfa.ca.gov no later than 5:00 p.m. PT on Monday, January 5, 2026.

Technical Review Committee Members Needed!!!! These are the volunteers who review the grant applications, read on...

The CDFA is also welcoming volunteers with knowledge and expertise in California's veterinary, animal rescue/shelter, and animal services industries to serve on the 2026 Pet Lover’s Technical Review Committee (TRC). The TRC reviews, evaluates, and makes recommendations to CDFA on proposals submitted for funding. Individuals interested in participating in the 2026 Pet Lover's TRC can download the application at this PAGE.

TRC Applications are due by 5pm PT on Monday, December 22, 2025. 

If you have questions about the process please contact:

Office of Grants Administration

California Department of Food and Agriculture

Tel: (916) 657-3231

grants@cdfa.ca.gov

CHECK OUT OUR SHORT VIDEO FOR NATIONAL ANIMAL RIGHTS DAY

Read LA Times investigation on corruption at California County Fairs.

Spoiler alert, it is one of the same groups that killed our compassionate bill, AB 3053.

While shocking, the findings in this explosive LA Times article detailing the corruption and cronyism in the state fair industry are not surprising. It is this type of culture that fosters behavior like that of fair officials involved in the tragic case of Cedar the Goat. Officials who believe they are above the law, and lack common decency.

In 2023, we sponsored AB 3053 which would have given rights to students who participate in agricultural programs, such as 4H, to withdraw their animal from auctions which end with the animal being slaughtered. The bill did not receive a hearing due to pressure from the California Fair Alliance - the same folks who have fostered the despicable culture outlined in the article. 

As we close out our 18th year of saving and protecting animals, we are deeply grateful for your continued commitment. Together, we are achieving lasting, meaningful progress for the voiceless beings who need us most.

Thank you for being an indispensable part of our team. Please consider donating to help us accomplish even more for animals in 2026!

With tons of gratitude, Judie & Team

Judie Mancuso, founder/CEO/president

Social Compassion, 501(c)(3)

Social Compassion in Legislation, 501(c)(4)