San Diego County Department of Animal Services - South Shelter
Our Mission
The County of San Diego Department of Animal Services is the dedicated open-admission agency for our unincorporated communities, working every day to protect the health, safety, and welfare of both people and animals. We believe that every animal deserves a second chance, and we are committed to providing compassionate care to the thousands of lost, homeless, and abandoned animals that come through our doors each year.
Our Commitment to Care
Over the past four decades, we have worked alongside our partners in the San Diego Animal Welfare Coalition to transform animal care, raising our save rate to 87 percent through our collective 'Getting to Zero' initiative. We believe in transparency and professional excellence, ensuring that our facilities provide a safe, nurturing environment for every pet while they wait for their forever families.
How We Help
We operate two county shelters and support a robust network of foster programs to ensure our animals receive the care and socialization they need. Our dedicated staff and volunteers provide essential services ranging from veterinary care and vaccinations to microchipping, all designed to prepare our animals for a smooth transition into their new homes.
Your Partner in Adoption
Adoption is the beginning of a joyful, life-long partnership, and we are here to help you find the perfect match for your lifestyle. Whether you are looking for a playful puppy, a gentle senior cat, or an exotic companion, our team is ready to guide you through the process and answer your questions.
Take the Next Step
Ready to meet your new best friend? We invite you to browse our available animals online or visit us at our North or South shelters during our public hours to see who is waiting for you. Together, we can continue to save lives and build a community where pets and people thrive.
- Helpful and kind staff
- Efficient adoption process
- Administrative and paperwork errors
10/10 - Pet of the week: 9-month-old shepherd mix is looking for a quiet home
Animal: Valley, 9-month-old, female shepherd mix, No. 995257. Where: San Diego Humane Society, Escondido Campus, 3500 Burnet Drive. Hours: Interested adopters can visit the campuses to adopt from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. …
9/18 - Animal officers rescue dog trapped in Bonita cactus patch
San Diego County Animal Services officers waded deep into a dense cactus patch to rescue a trapped dog covered head-to-toe in painful thorns, officials said Friday.
9/11 - Pet of the week: 4-year-old cat who likes to explore
Domestic Long Hair cat waiting for adoption at the Rancho Coastal Humane Society
8/12 - Dog missing for 30 days rescued from California storm drain
San Diego County animal services officers rescued a 20-pound dog named Teddy from a storm drain after he had been missing for more than 30 days.
7/26 - Pet of the week: Kitty with a soft meow looking for a home
5-year-old, domestic short hair cat is waiting to be adopted at the Rancho Coastal Humane Society
7/12 - Pet of the week: friendly, playful dog who loves hugs is looking for a new home
5-year-old Labrador Retriever is waiting to be adopted at the Rancho Coastal Humane Society
4/25 - Pet of the week: 2-year-old American Pit Bull Terrier Mix who is a “cuddle bug”
2-year-old American Pit Bull Terrier Mix is waiting to be adopted at San Diego Humane Society, Escondido Campus
