What’s in a name? Everything!

Every year, spcaLA receives hundreds of phone calls from the public asking about a “sister” SPCA organization or a “parent” organization. Through these many inquiries, it is obvious that there is a misconception about spcaLA’s affiliation with people believing the ASPCA and all the SPCA’s/Humane Societies are interconnected. While this is understandable, it is not true; spcaLA is an independent animal organization. In fact, most people are not aware that there is no national SPCA, parent organization, or umbrella group that provides support. Each SPCA and Humane Society is a completely unrelated organization.

spcaLA Is Not Affiliated with Any Other SPCA or Humane Society

On the surface, it may not seem like a serious problem but, in fact, it greatly affects spcaLA. For instance, spcaLA receives numerous calls from donors who, due to a misconception of the affiliation, thought they were contributing to an animal organization in their home community of Los Angeles, when in reality they gave to the ASPCA. Similarly, many people designate spcaLA in their will, identifying the beneficiary as the ASPCA but use spcaLA’s Los Angeles address. Without the proper designation, these donations intended for spcaLA, are directed to ASPCA’s shelters in New York City, not in Los Angeles.

It is the same with any Humane Society not based in Los Angeles—the money does not stay in Los Angeles. While spcaLA applauds any work that is carried out on behalf of animals anywhere in the country, this affiliation misconception is very challenging and it is especially upsetting when spcaLA tells Southern California donors that their money is not going to help the animals in their own neighborhood.

We hope this clears up any confusion. Please email us at info@spcaLA.com, if you have questions. Your support is extremely important to us, as we do not receive funding from any federal, state or local government agency. Financial support for spcaLA’s humane programs is made possible solely by generous donations from individuals, corporations, and foundations.

Thank you for your continued support. Together we can make a difference in Los Angeles!