We must decrease the number of unwanted animals that enter our public shelter and get more animals out of shelters and into homes. That is why the Sacramento SPCA devotes significant resources to addressing animal overpopulation through our spay and neuter program.

Spaying and/or neutering your dog will ensure more dogs are not surrendered to the shelter. While all breeds are at risk for overpopulation and homelessness, a high percentage of animals surrendered at community shelters in our region are pit bull and pit bull mixes (pit bull/mixes). In 2020, 43% of dogs surrendered to the Sacramento SPCA were classified as pit bull or pit bull mixes. This classification can be a deterrent to adoption and many times, these dogs are in the shelter system longer than any other breed.

When a pit bull/mix is not spayed or neutered, there is a higher risk of surrender should the female dog become pregnant. The average litter size of a pit bull/mix is 5-10 puppies. Within five years, one unaltered female dog and her offspring can produce 324 offspring. Because of the large average litter, many owners cannot place the puppies in homes, and they are surrendered. In addition to reducing overpopulation, spaying and neutering has medical, behavioral, and cost benefits.

To address the rising population of pit bull/mixes and surrenders, the “We Pay to Spay” (WPTS) program was instituted by the Sacramento SPCA in October of 2002. As of December 2025, the Sacramento SPCA has altered more than 17,000 pit bull/mixes at no cost or low-cost to the owners.

In 2019, Chihuahuas/mixes were added to the program and so far, more than 1,900 Chihuahua/mixes have been altered through WPTS. Due to the increase in Shepherd/mixes and Husky/mixes also entering our community’s shelters, these breeds were added to the program in March 2026.

Today, these four breeds make up 53% of the dogs entering the Sacramento SPCA:

• Pit bull/mixes – 18%
• Chihuahua/mixes – 16%
• Shepherd/mixes – 12%
• Husky/mixes – 7%

At a cost of $75,000per year to run the WPTS program, we need your help. Your one-time gift of $750 will cover one full day of surgeries-that’s 5-8 pit bull/mixes, Chihuahua/mixes, Shepherd/mixes, and Huskie/mixes that will be spayed or neutered. We currently have opportunities available for sponsorship. To learn more about how you can sponsor a WPTS clinic, contact Sarah Haney, Chief Development Officer, at 916.504.2805 or email shaney@sspca.org.

Thank you to the following program sponsors for your support in 2025/2026:

• The California Department of Food & Agriculture Pet Lover’s License Plate Grant Program
• Bruce Tuter

This listing recognizes individuals, businesses, and foundations who have given $500 or more.