Barbara brings over 20 year of unique public policy expertise and extensive experience in the animal welfare industry

San Francisco, CA – July 5, 2022 – The San Francisco SPCA has announced that Barbara Schmitz, JD, will join the Shelter Policy and Legal Services (PALS) team as Advocacy Counsel starting in August 2022. Shelter PALS is the country’s first and only legal aid program dedicated exclusively to the needs of animal shelters. Shelter PALS leverages the expertise of the best minds in animal welfare, and channels significant legal aid to animal shelters. The program champions policy change and counsels shelter clients to reduce imbalances of expertise and resources that result in poor outcomes for animals.

Barbara has over 20 years of experience in public policy and advocacy on behalf of animals nationwide. Most recently, Barbara was the Staff Services Manager for the State of California. She previously served as the Director of Advocacy and Outreach for Alley Cat Allies and State Director for the Humane Society of the United States.

“Animal shelters in California are facing significant and mounting challenges; intake numbers are rising while the national veterinary staffing shortage continues to worsen,” said Dr. Jennifer Scarlett, CEO of the SF SPCA. “Barbara has the experience and policy background needed to expand Shelter PALS services and help shelters save lives.”

Barbara also has experience providing pro bono legal support to organizations such as Legal Services of Eastern Missouri’s Volunteer Lawyer Program, St. Louis Animal Rights Team, Missouri’s Humane Advocacy Network, and Missouri River Otter Protection Coalition. Barbara received her JD from the St. Louis University School of Law.

To learn more about Shelter PALS or support the SF SPCA’s advocacy efforts, visit here.

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About the San Francisco SPCA

The San Francisco SPCA is an independent, community-supported nonprofit animal welfare organization dedicated to saving, protecting, and providing immediate care for cats and dogs who are homeless, ill, or in need of an advocate. The SF SPCA also works long-term to educate the community, reduce the number of unwanted kittens and puppies through spaying and neutering, and improve the quality of life for animals and their human companions. The organization does not receive government funding.

For more information, visit sfspca.org