About CAA

The California Animal Association (CAA) was established in 2004 to create a unified voice on animal protection issues, and to mobilize experienced professionals to represent the interests of animals at the state capitol.

CAA Objectives

• Sponsor animal protection legislation
• Provide expertise on a wide range of animal protection issues to legislators, aides, department officials and others
• Monitor and assess all proposed California legislation potentially impacting animals

CAA Strengths

• Knowledge on broad topics ranging from companion animals to farm animals to wildlife, as well as existing California laws affecting animals
• Support for all aspects of the legislative process, from initial research and legal expertise to testimony and media consultations
• Member organizations with professional lawyers, researchers, and public relations and marketing specialists on staff
• A proven track record of working with legislators, state agencies, and special interest groups to diffuse opposition and draft legislation that is beneficial for all parties.
• A demonstrated ability to generate bipartisan support

CAA Accomplishments

• CAA has successfully united all of the major animal advocacy organizations in California into a powerful political coalition.
• In 2006, CAA sponsored SB 1578, a bill that limited the time dogs can be chained outdoors and gave animal control officers statewide a new tool to protect animals and increase public safety in their communities.
• In 2007, CAA sponsored AB 449 and AB 1477, two bills to resolve wildlife conflicts that received bipartisan support in both legislative chambers before being vetoed by the governor.
• CAA representatives worked successfully with a wildlife control operators’ association on AB 449 and AB 1477to craft bills that were thoroughly researched and mutually beneficial.
• Each year, CAA sponsors a reception at the state capitol to introduce legislators and staff to member organizations, and to recognize legislators who have made a difference for animals with its “Legislator of the Year Award.”