San Bernardino Receives $125,000 Grant
to Provide Free Care for Pets
The City of San Bernardino has announced it has received a $125,000 More Pets and People Together grant from the University of California, Davis Koret Shelter Medicine Program. The funds will be used to help residents pay for veterinary care for their pets, including spay and neuter services, at participating veterinarians in the local area through a voucher program.
“This grant will help us get much needed veterinary care to the pets in our community,” said Animal Services Director Kris Watson. “Pet care is expensive, and this grant will help our residents’ dogs and cats stay healthy and happy.”
According to a 2023 study by MarketWatch, California is the most expensive state in the nation to own a dog, with much of the cost attributed to pet care. The study found that nationwide, spay/neuter costs average nearly $300, vaccinations just under $200, and preventive medicine averages $184.
“Pets are part of our families. This grant will help remove the cost barrier that prevents residents from seeking care for their pets,” added Watson. “We are very grateful for this funding from UC Davis.”
The grant is part of the California for All Animals Program, which works to ensure that all California communities have the resources they need to meet the state’s goal that no healthy or treatable dog or cat is euthanized in an animal shelter. A pet’s poor health is often a reason pets are surrendered to shelters.
Program vouchers for care are expected to become available in March. Specific information regarding participating veterinarian offices and program eligibility will be made available next month.
Residents are asked to contact the San Bernardino Animal Shelter at (909) 384-1304 with any questions.
Click on "View the PDF" below to read the press release.