Champions for Pet Health: A Community Initiative to Protect Our Furry Friends

More than 30 local families recently benefited from free spay and neuter surgeries for their pets, thanks to a generous initiative held at the Valley Humane Society in Pleasanton. This effort, dubbed "Champions for Pet Health: Communities Partnering for Wellness and Spay & Neuter," took place over a weekend in early December and was part of a broader campaign across the Bay Area aimed at tackling the pressing issue of animal care.

A Collaborative Approach to Animal Welfare

The campaign brought together nine animal support organizations that collaborated to provide essential veterinary services. This included waiving fees not just for surgeries, but also for vaccinations and microchipping, addressing an urgent backlog in animal care while simultaneously working to reduce homelessness among pets in the region.

Melanie Sadek, the president and CEO of Valley Humane, expressed the essence of the initiative: “We believe every pet deserves access to essential veterinary care—not just when adoption is the goal, but as a cornerstone of community welfare.” This sentiment resonates deeply; it emphasizes that pet care should never be compromised due to financial constraints or other barriers.

Community Response and Support

The turnout for the two-day event was remarkable, with over 600 spay and neuter surgeries completed through the wealth of support from national foundations and local donors. Sadek further emphasized the ongoing need for accessible animal care: “Many families struggled this year with the rising cost of care for their beloved animals.” Through efforts like these, organizations like Valley Humane aim to prevent unnecessary animal surrenders and continue supporting families with their pets.

Valley Humane has a rich history of community engagement, not only facilitating adoptions but also providing programs like the AniMeals Pet Food Pantry and Canine Comfort Pet-Assisted Therapy. The organization coordinates numerous initiatives that cater to both animals and their human companions, creating a safety net for the most vulnerable in their community.

The Veterinary Surgery Center at Valley Humane

The heart of this initiative took place at the Phil Scholz Veterinary Surgery Center located on Spring Street in downtown Pleasanton. The center plays an integral role in the community by providing spay and neuter surgeries, medical care for animals in need, and even opening its doors to the public for veterinary services. This facility stands as a beacon of hope for animal lovers who might otherwise face overwhelming obstacles in accessing care for their pets.

Celebrity Involvement: Tony La Russa’s Support

The campaign also gained traction through the involvement of notable figures like Tony La Russa, the retired Hall of Fame baseball manager. La Russa, present with his daughter Bianca, helped promote the cause of veterinary accessibility. His commitment to animal welfare through the La Russa Rescue Champions organization lent a significant boost to the campaign, which was also sponsored by other national foundations such as Maddie’s Fund and the BISSELL Pet Foundation.

Continuing Community Efforts

Even though we have transitioned into a new year, Valley Humane and the other involved organizations continue to face the challenge of animal welfare head-on. The 2025-26 Pleasanton Weekly Holiday Fund is still open for donations, directly benefiting Valley Humane and nine other essential nonprofits in the Tri-Valley area, including culinary and health services. Each of these organizations works diligently across various sectors including nutrition, healthcare, and education.

The campaign reflects the philosophies that drive organizations like Valley Humane—community building, compassionate care, and the recognition that every animal deserves a loving home and access to essential services.

In a world where pets are often seen as mere companions, initiatives like "Champions for Pet Health" remind us of the critical responsibilities we hold toward these animals, reinforcing that together, communities can make a profound impact on their lives.