Advocacy
Taking Action.
Shelter PALS (Policy and Legal Services) is the country’s first and only pro bono legal-aid program
dedicated exclusively to the needs of animal shelters. We champion policy change and counsel shelter clients to improve outcomes for animals. Beyond free legal advice, coordinating strategic litigation, and outreach to policy-makers, we also:
Provide input on all standard shelter agreements
Review and advise clients with respect to animal-related ordinances
Assist in negotiations of contracts with government agencies
We believe that every California animal shelter should have access to quality legal help, and we are here to provide it. Join us as Shelter PALS improves the lives of animals in California and creates a roadmap for change nationwide.
Advocacy Impact
Guidelines and Templates to Implement SB 669 are Now Available
Did you know that Senate Bill (SB) 669—the legislation that allows Registered Veterinary Technicians (RVTs) to administer vaccines while a veterinarian is off-site—is now officially law in California? Taking effect
2023 SF SPCA State Legislative Season Wrap-Up
With the State Legislative season now wrapped up, the SF SPCA is pleased to report on our successful advocacy campaigns aimed at improving access to care for California’s pets and
SB 669 Will Authorize RVTs to Administer Vital Vaccines to California Pets
UPDATE: We are overjoyed to announce that Senate Bill 669 (SB 669), which expands the ability of Registered Veterinary Technicians (RVTs) to administer vital vaccines, was signed into law by
Meet the Team
Barbara Schmitz Animal-Welfare Advocacy Counsel
Barbara serves as Animal Welfare Advocacy Counsel and leads the SF SPCA Advocacy program. She has 20 years of experience in public policy and advocacy on behalf of animals nationwide, including efforts protecting dogs in puppy mills, animals in pet stores, and issues related to community cats and their caregivers. Barbara directed two statewide animal-protection ballot-measure campaigns, organized grassroots and field operations statewide, and provides full-service advocacy and strategic efforts to help move the needle toward a more humane society. Barbara is owned by her three cats, Winston, Charlotte, and Mr. Gray.
Bruce Wagman Lead Counsel
Bruce Wagman, a lawyer with the San Francisco office of Riley Safer Holmes & Cancila LLP, has dedicated more than three decades to advocating for animals in various sectors of society. As the sole attorney running an exclusive animal law practice in a major U.S. firm, he litigates cases, drafts animal-friendly legislation, oversees rescues and sanctuaries, and provides consulting services. His expertise is recognized globally through his publications, casework, and involvement with a wide variety of animal law issues, from entertainment and biomedical research to animal cruelty and farm animal and wildlife protection. He is also the founder of Project Chimps, a Georgia sanctuary for chimpanzees retired from biomedical research. Known for his passion and successful arguments, Bruce represents animal-protection organizations and individuals, offering unwavering dedication to his clients and the animals involved.
Volunteer with Us
Are you a legal professional or advocate with a passion for animal advocacy?
Compassion Collective
Interested in discounted veterinary pharmaceutical products for your shelter? We can help.