A First Call in Times of Uncertainty

For a lot of people, Humane Society Silicon Valley is the first call they make when something unexpected happens. Maybe their pet is sick and they can’t afford care. Maybe they’re grieving, scared, or just overwhelmed. On the other end of that call is someone like Kyoko.

“I’ve always wanted to be that person. The one who helps people through uncertainty,” she says. “Especially when it involves their animals.”

Kyoko started at HSSV as a Community Services Associate. Over time, she grew into her current role as a Project Specialist. But it wasn’t just about a new title. It meant stepping into more responsibility, taking on new challenges, and learning how to show up in more meaningful ways.

“I’ve learned how to listen, how to be present, and how to earn people’s trust,” she says. “You don’t always have the perfect answer. But you can be steady, honest, and compassionate. That goes a long way.”

Breaking Down Barriers to Care

HSSV’s community services team focuses on removing barriers to pet care. Because love for a pet shouldn’t be limited by income, location, or language. Programs like the Pet Pantry, low-cost vaccine clinics, and mobile outreach events are designed to make pet care more accessible to everyone.

“A lot of people outside the work don’t realize how hard it can be to access even the basics,” Kyoko explains. “The cost of living here is expensive. Some people are choosing between groceries and pet food. Or they’re delaying vet care because they can’t afford it. These programs matter because they take pressure off. They help people keep their pets, even when things get hard.”

One moment that stands out to Kyoko involved a family who brought in a kitten for vaccines. Something didn’t seem right.

“She had signs of ringworm, which is a tough and expensive condition to treat. The family only spoke Spanish, and they weren’t sure what to do next. But we worked through it. We got her medical care, found her a foster, and kept the family updated. The dad held her the entire time while we filled out paperwork. He didn’t want to let go. That kitten wasn’t just a pet to him. She was family. That’s what we’re here to protect.”

Stories like that are a reminder of how powerful these programs are, not just for pets but for the people who love them.

Now, HSSV is opening a new Community Pet Clinic. It will be the organization’s first in-house veterinary clinic focused on providing consistent, affordable care to the people who need it most.

“This is huge,” Kyoko says. “It means we’ll have a place people can count on. Not just one-time help, but long-term support. It’s everything we’ve been building toward. Building trust. Showing up. Being part of the community.”

“No One Should Have to Choose”

For Kyoko, that’s the heart of the work. “I want us to keep growing. Keep breaking down barriers. Keep letting people know they’re not alone. No one should have to choose between caring for their pet and caring for themselves. We’re here to make sure they don’t have to.”

We’re here to make veterinary care more accessible for every family. Learn how our new Community Pet Clinic is expanding affordable care for pets in need.