New York: Renew Critical Funding for Shelter Animals in 2026

NY Companion Animal Capital Fund (CACF)

ASPCA Position: Support

Update — May 27, 2026: Great news! The New York Legislature just approved the Capital Projects portion of the New York state budget, which includes $10 million to fund the Companion Animal Capital Fund (CACF). Thank you for each action you took to help achieve this victory for New York's animal shelters and the thousands of pets they care for.

The Companion Animal Capital Fund has been a lifeline for animal shelters across the Empire State, providing critical funding to modernize shelter facilities, complete urgent repairs and expand lifesaving capacity. From Long Island to Western New York, shelters have used past CACF grants to upgrade heating and air conditioning systems, renovate animal enclosures, improve veterinary spaces and ensure animals are safe and comfortable while they await adoption.

Animal shelters are facing sustained pressure — higher intake, longer lengths of stay, rising veterinary costs and aging infrastructure. Without renewed investment, many facilities will struggle to meet the growing needs of pets and the communities who rely on them.

New York has long been a national leader in animal welfare. Renewed CACF funding reaffirms that commitment and ensures shelters can continue providing lifesaving care to homeless animals across the state.

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Advocacy Alert

Your Message

Subject Include NYS Companion Animal Capital Fund in 2027 Budget

Dear Lawmaker,

Message

Please renew your commitment to homeless animals by supporting the Companion Animal Capital Fund (CACF) in Governor Hochul’s 2027 Executive Budget proposal.

This initiative, the first of its kind in the United States, first became a reality in 2017 as a proposal advanced by the Legislature. Since that time, it has delivered $48 million to almost 100 shelter organizations for much-needed capital improvements. Recent surveys, however, indicate at least $114 million in additional capital needs for New York animal shelters.

This funding has taken on new significance over the past few years, with the roll-out of the Companion Animal Care Standards Act, which was enacted into law in 2022 but became effective just last month. This uniform facility and operational standards law was badly needed in New York, but it also highlights the vast amount of outstanding capital needs for animal shelters and rescue organizations across the state.

That’s why we’re asking that you support the Governor’s $5 Million proposal but also to renew your legacy commitment with a $5 million match, bringing the Fund to a total of $10 million for 2027.

Please renew your commitment to this effective, lifesaving, one-of-a-kind program in this year’s budget negotiations so that shelters statewide can continue serving local governments with their lifesaving work.

Sincerely,

[First Name] [Last Name]
[Your Address]

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