November 14 is a day to celebrate the life, vision, and lasting impact of Rich Avanzino, who led the San Francisco SPCA from 1976 to 1999.
Rich, who passed away on September 20, 2026, changed how animal welfare organizations approach adoptions, preventative veterinary care, and the role of shelters in their communities. He championed innovative programs that helped more animals find homes, expanded access to spay/neuter services, made veterinary care a cornerstone of sheltering so animals could receive the medical attention they needed on their journey to loving homes, and advanced legal protections for animals through advocacy.
This year, the SF SPCA is honoring his legacy by making adoption fees and spay/neuter services free on November 14.
A birthday that celebrates a lasting legacy
November 14 holds special significance: It’s the birthday of Sido, the dog whose story became a defining moment in Rich Avanzino’s career.
When Sido’s original guardian passed away in 1979, her will called for Sido to be euthanized. Rich and the SF SPCA intervened to save Sido’s life, setting off a legal battle that challenged long-held assumptions about the rights and protections companion animals deserve.
Their efforts helped bring about landmark legislation and inspired the creation of the SF SPCA Sido Pet Protection Program, which helps ensure pets have a safe future if they outlive their guardians.
Rich adopted Sido after her case ended. In reflecting on their bond, Rich once said, “Sido’s fresh spirit uplifted me always. She took me into her heart and my love for her will remain forever.”
On Sido’s birthday, we remember the extraordinary bond they shared, and the lasting protections her story helped make possible. Her legacy, like Rich’s, lives on in the lives of animals and the people who care for them.
Put Rich’s vision into action
On November 14, the SF SPCA invites you to honor Rich’s legacy by taking advantage of two special promotions that reflect his lifelong commitment to animal welfare.
Free adoptions
We are waiving adoption fees* for all available animals at the SF SPCA on November 14. Visit the SF SPCA Adoption Center at 250 Florida Street between 11am and 5pm to meet your newest family member. If you don‘t find your companion at our shelter on November 14, you can also receive a coupon for a free adoption through December 31, 2026, to help more animals find loving homes.
Free spay/neuter services
Dog and cat spay/neuter services at the SF SPCA Spay/Neuter Clinic will also be free on November 14. Book an appointment here. Need to book for a different date? Write “Rich” in “reason for appointment,” and we’ll honor the promotion on another day.
Continue his legacy
Rich’s vision continues in the work happening every day at the SF SPCA, and in the people who believe every animal deserves a chance to thrive.
Join us on November 14 to celebrate Sido’s birthday, remember Rich’s extraordinary contributions to animal welfare, and help carry his legacy forward. Whether you welcome a new animal into your home, make a spay/neuter appointment, or share his story, your support helps create a more compassionate future for animals.
*Please note that San Francisco residents will still have to pay a $32 San Francisco dog license fee at the time of adoption.