Bequest from late pet lover Robert W. Steger will expand spay and neuter services and help thousands of animals across the region
A generous gift from a devoted animal lover will soon help save the lives of thousands of pets across Sacramento County.
The Sacramento County Board of Supervisors has formally approved acceptance of a $359,823.44 donation to Sacramento County Animal Care Services from the estate of Robert W. Steger, a longtime supporter of animal welfare whose final act of generosity will directly benefit animals housed at the Sacramento County Bradshaw Animal Shelter.
The Board’s approval authorizes Animal Care Services to accept and utilize the full amount of the donation, ensuring the funds will be directed toward programs that improve animal health, reduce shelter overcrowding and expand access to services for pet owners throughout the county.
Officials say the contribution represents one of the more significant private gifts made to the county’s animal care system in recent years, providing a meaningful boost to programs designed to prevent unwanted litters and increase lifesaving outcomes for animals.
Steger, remembered by those who knew him as a devoted cat and dog lover, chose to leave the funds as part of his estate so that his compassion for animals would continue making a difference long after his passing. County officials say his bequest will allow the shelter to strengthen key services that directly impact both animals and the community.
“This gift is more than a donation, it is a legacy of compassion,” said Annette Bedsworth, director of Sacramento County Animal Care Services. “His contribution is truly a testament to his kindness and unwavering support for our mission. Because of Mr. Steger’s belief in giving animals a second chance, we will be able to expand programs like our MASH clinics and provide more spay and neuter services to Sacramento County residents. That investment in prevention saves lives and strengthens our community.”
According to Animal Care Services officials, the funds will primarily support expansion of the county’s Mobile Animal Spay Hospital, commonly known as the MASH program. The mobile clinics travel throughout the region to provide affordable spay and neuter services, making it easier for residents to access preventive veterinary care.
By increasing the availability of those services, the program helps reduce the number of unwanted litters entering the shelter system each year, easing overcrowding and improving outcomes for animals already in care.
Animal welfare experts consistently point to spay and neuter access as one of the most effective tools for reducing shelter intake. Prevention programs also help pet owners keep animals healthy and safely housed, reducing the likelihood that pets will end up abandoned or surrendered.
Officials say the impact of Steger’s gift will extend well beyond the shelter walls, supporting a proactive approach to animal welfare that benefits pets, families and the community as a whole.
For Sacramento County’s Bradshaw Animal Shelter, which provides care and adoption services for thousands of animals annually, the donation represents both a financial boost and a reminder of the powerful role community members can play in supporting animal welfare.
Through Steger’s generosity, county leaders say his compassion for animals will continue to save lives and create opportunities for pets to find loving homes for years to come.
Residents interested in learning more about Sacramento County Bradshaw Animal Shelter or how to support its programs can visit BradshawShelter.net.
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