San Francisco SPCA: Sido Program

Many people don’t have a trusted, willing friend or relative to appoint as guardian for their pet. They worry about what will happen to their pet when they pass away. With the Sido Program, people get peace of mind about the fate of their pets. When their owner dies, dogs and cats enrolled in Sido are taken into the San Francisco SPCA Adoption Program, providing they pass health and behavior checks. They get exceptional care and attention as The SF/SPCA works to place them in the best possible home, so they can live out their days in comfort and love.

The Sido Program is offered to SF/SPCA donors at no fee, although an annual donation of at least $25 to The SF/SPCA is requested.

California Pet Trusts

On January 1st, 2009 a new law went into effect aimed at protecting animals after the deaths of their owners.  Senate Bill 685, initiated by The San Francisco SPCA and authored by Senator Leland Yee (D-San Francisco/San Marco), is expected to reduce the burden on animal shelters, conserve public services and funds, protect defenseless pets, and guarantee that people's wills are carried out as intended.

"Pets are an important part of the American family," said Yee. "This law makes pet trusts enforceable and assures that the wishes of the pet owners are respected."

"This is a great step forward in protecting pets throughout California," said Jan McHugh-Smith, President of The San Francisco SPCA. "This law provides the legal basis to make certain that the careful planning of pet owners is carried out and that pets continue to be cared for and safeguarded even after the passing of their owners."

Pet trusts in California had previously only been honorary, not enforceable by law. This new law makes pet trust law consistent with other trust law by requiring trustees to carry out trust instructions regarding pets, and by incorporating oversight to guarantee performance.

"Wills and trusts are the means for people to bestow their possessions and savings as they see fit," Yee added. "Under this new law, a pet owner will be assured that their pet will be properly cared for after their passing while also ensuring that kin are not burdened with undue pressure."