PHS/SPCA has been responsible for considerable progress in the California Legislature with new humane laws in the state, especially since the late 1970s.

PHS/SPCA also operates a low cost clinics for animal vaccination as well as spay and neuter functions.

[5] The organization has been active in promoting awareness of the need for pet population control,[6] through spay and neuter programs as well as finding homes for animals.

California Civil Code Section 1834.4 and Penal Code Section 599d, enacted January 1, 1999 as part of the Hayden Act, define adoptable and treatable animals and make it state policy that no adoptable or treatable animal should be euthanized.

[8] The Peninsula Humane Society & SPCA, governed by a board of directors, has existed for over 50 years.