FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Encinitas, CA – March 21, 2025
Honoring a Legacy of Compassion: SNAP Dedicates Mobile Unit to Maggie and Ian
Two of Encinitas’ most beloved residents, Maggie Houlihan and Ian Thompson, left an indelible mark on the community through their unwavering dedication to animals, people, and the environment. Cherished for their kindness, activism, and vibrant spirit, this surfboard-riding, Western line-dancing, vegetarian couple was loved across political lines.
Maggie Houlihan, a founding force behind the Spay-Neuter Action Project (SNAP), devoted her life to reducing pet overpopulation and advocating for animals in need. After her passing, her husband, Ian, continued her legacy, serving as a passionate SNAP board member and volunteer. Ian, who recently lost his battle with cancer on January 28, 2025, remained a steadfast advocate for spay/neuter services, ensuring that their shared mission thrived.
To honor their profound impact, SNAP is proud to announce the renaming of its North County Neuter Scooter mobile unit to the Maggie and Ian SNAP North Neuter Scooter. This tribute ensures that their legacy of compassion continues, reaching underserved communities and saving countless animal lives.
Beyond their work with SNAP, Maggie and Ian were dedicated stewards of Encinitas’ natural beauty, creating parks and protecting local wildlife—including turtles, rabbits, cats, dogs, and even rats. Their love for all beings was reflected in every action they took to improve their community.
“Maggie and Ian embodied the heart and soul of Encinitas,” said Dorell Sackett, Director of SNAP. “Their kindness, advocacy, and love for animals and people will forever inspire us. Dedicating this mobile unit in their honor is a small way of ensuring their work lives on.”
The Maggie and Ian SNAP North Neuter Scooter will continue to serve San Diego County, providing vital spay and neuter services to low-income pet owners. This dedication reflects the deep gratitude of the community and the unwavering commitment of SNAP to carrying forward Maggie and Ian’s mission.
For more information about SNAP’s services or to support the organization’s work, visit www.snap-sandiego.org or contact info@snap-sandiego.org
About Spay-Neuter Action Project (SNAP)
The Spay-Neuter Action Project (SNAP) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to reducing pet overpopulation by providing affordable and free spay/neuter services to low-income pet owners. Through mobile clinics and community outreach, SNAP has helped prevent the suffering of countless animals and contributed to a more humane San Diego County.