
Santa Barbara Humane serves as champions for animals and the people who love them, dedicated to creating a happy, healthy community for all animals. Since 1887, we have stood as a trusted local partner for animal adoptions, veterinary care, and pet resources.
Founded on April 18, 1887, we are one of the first animal welfare agencies in the country, predating national organizations by decades. As an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit not funded by any national agency, we rely on the generous support of our community to continue our vital work across our campuses in Santa Barbara and Santa Maria.
We embrace the Socially Conscious Sheltering model, which emphasizes a transparent, compassionate, and thoughtful approach to supporting vulnerable animals. By offering high-quality, low-cost veterinary services, affordable dog training, and behavioral support, we aim to keep pets and their families together. Our open-admission approach ensures that every animal, regardless of age or health, has a chance at a loving home.
Adding a new member to your family is a joyful experience, and we are here to support you through every step of the process. Our dedicated staff and volunteers work to understand each animal's unique needs, ensuring thoughtful matches that create lasting, happy partnerships. Whether you are looking for a playful puppy or a wise senior cat, our adoption centers are here to guide you.
We invite you to visit our adoption centers daily between 12:00 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. to meet your future best friend. Explore our available animals online, learn more about our upcoming community events, or discover how you can support our life-saving work. Together, we can build a brighter future for the animals who bring so much love into our lives.