The Care for Animals Amendment Act of 2025 aims to enhance the health and wellbeing of pets in the District of Columbia by expanding the Animal Population Health and Education Program. This program will now include preventive and emergency veterinary services for pet owners, in addition to existing low-cost spay and neuter clinic services and educational programs on pet care and safety. The funding for these services will come from dog licensing fees, pet food registration fees, and other public or private sources. The legislation also establishes a mechanism for the enforcement of standards for pet care facilities by the District Department of Health.

Key amendments to current law include the introduction of new definitions related to pet food and the establishment of pet food registration fees, which will be collected annually from pet food manufacturers. The registration fees will start at $50 per product in Fiscal Year 2026 and increase to $75 in Fiscal Year 2027, with future increases determined by the Department of Health. Additionally, the legislation clarifies the funding sources and uses for the Animal Education and Outreach Fund, ensuring that funds are allocated for the implementation of the Animal Population Health and Education Program and related administrative expenses.