OC Animal Care Encourages Veterans to Adopt a Companion Animal
Under California Senate Bill 245 (Pets for Vets Act)
TUSTIN, Calif. (November 7, 2025) – In recognition of National Veterans and Military Families Month, this November OC Animal Care is proud to encourage U.S. military veterans to adopt a companion animal through California Senate Bill 245, the “Pets for Vets Act.” This statewide legislation authorizes California’s public animal shelters to waive adoption fees for U.S. veterans, honoring their service while helping shelter pets find permanent, loving homes.
“Orange County is proud to support this important statewide program,” said Chair Doug Chaffee, Fourth District Supervisor. “We recognize the incredible bond between people and their pets and the positive impact that companionship can have on veterans as they transition back to civilian life.”
Enacted on January 1, 2020, the Pets for Vets Act allows eligible veterans to adopt a dog or cat at no cost from participating California shelters, including OC Animal Care. To qualify, veterans need only to present a valid California Driver License or California ID Card with a “VETERAN” designation at the time of adoption. Each veteran may adopt one animal every six months, with all standard adoption fees waived.
“The Pets for Vets Act is more than policy, it’s a lifeline,” said Vice Chair Katrina Foley, Fifth District Supervisor. “These adoptions enhance the lives of our veterans, while giving deserving pets a second chance at connection. By waiving fees, we make it easier for veterans to adopt companion animals and foster healing for those who sacrificed so much for our country.”
The California Association of Veteran Service Agencies (CAVSA), sponsors of the Pets for Vets Act, emphasize that the law helps make emotional support and companion animals more accessible to nearly two million veterans living in California. With roughly 11-20 percent of returning veterans nationwide coping with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or other service-related conditions, reducing barriers to pet adoption is a simple, compassionate step toward healing.
“Two great things are coming together – our veterans, who devoted their lives protecting us, and animals that give unconditional love,” said First District Supervisor Janet Nguyen. “We have some really great dogs and cats at OC Animal Care waiting for their forever home. I urge all veterans to adopt a free pet, which will undoubtably provide comfort and relieve stress.”
Throughout November, OC Animal Care is launching a community awareness campaign to ensure eligible veterans in Orange County know about this opportunity. In collaboration with our county, city, and community partners, including the Veterans Service Office, the shelter is dedicated to helping veterans connect with companion animals in need of loving homes all year long.
“Our veterans have given so much in service to our country, and it’s our honor to support them in finding loyal companions through OC Animal Care,” said Second District Supervisor Vicente Sarmiento. “This effort assists those who’ve served and helps ensure shelter pets have a chance at a loving home.”
“Veterans have stood by us, now it’s our turn to stand by them,” said Third District Supervisor Don Wagner. “This initiative isn't just for November; this is a year-round commitment to helping veterans heal, reconnect, and thrive. We’re proud to stand beside those who’ve served by making pet adoption accessible whenever they’re ready.”
For more information, visit our Pets for Vets page.
