Los Angeles, CA — Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Los Angeles (spcaLA) is saddened by the passing of Bob Barker, longtime “Price Is Right” host and animal activist. Through the years, Barker worked with and supported spcaLA to promote the importance of spay/neuter programs to abate pet overpopulation and to advocate for the humane treatment of animals.

Madeline Bernstein presents President’s Award to Bob Barker

In the 1980s at Barker’s request, spcaLA brought adoptable pets to Price Is Right tapings, raising visibility for shelter pet adoptions. This weekly tradition continued until Barker’s retirement as host. During one of his last tapings in 2007, Barker was presented the spcaLA President’s Award for his lifetime of animal activism. The award was bestowed by spcaLA President, Madeline Bernstein.

“Bob was a great friend to spcaLA and animals everywhere,” said Bernstein. “He will be greatly missed, but his signature sign-off still inspires: ‘Help control the pet population. Have your pets spayed or neutered.'”

In the 1970s and 80s, Barker participated in spcaLA telethons to raise money for homeless pets and Be Kind to Animals Week, a media campaign to raise empathy for all living things. He is a founding donor of the spcaLA PD Pitchford Companion Animal Village & Education Center in Long Beach (est. 2001), which provides adoption and enrichment for thousands of animals yearly. In 2008, spcaLA’s Speciality Spay/Neuter Center opened it’s doors in part with a grant from Barker’s DJ&T Foundation.

Bob Barker’s legacy will continue in spcaLA’s mission to prevent cruelty to animals through intervention, law enforcement, education and advocacy. Those who wish to make a donation in Barker’s honor may do so at spcaLA.com/donate.