Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter
Our Mission
At the Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter, our mission is to serve the pets and people of our community with openness and compassion. We work tirelessly to protect and improve the health, safety, and welfare of the animals entrusted to our care.
Our History
Since our inception in 2002, we have remained Santa Cruz County’s only full-service, open-admission animal shelter. We are a non-profit Joint Powers Authority dedicated to providing a safe haven for over 6,000 stray, abandoned, or neglected animals every year.
How We Care
We operate two public shelters in Santa Cruz and Watsonville, serving as a vital resource for the entire county. Our care model relies on a wonderful network of volunteers and foster families who provide essential socialization and love, alongside our dedicated staff who ensure every animal receives veterinary care and compassion during their stay.
Your Adoption Journey
Adopting a new companion is a joyful partnership, and we are here to help you find the perfect match for your home. Because many of our animals live in foster homes, we encourage you to browse our available pets online and reach out to our team to schedule a meeting with your potential new family member. We are committed to ensuring every transition is thoughtful and successful for both you and your pet.
Join Us in Making a Difference
Ready to meet your new best friend? Visit our website to view our currently available animals, or stop by our shelter locations to submit an application. We invite you to become part of our mission by adopting, fostering, or volunteering to support the animals in our community.
7/8 - Best of Santa Cruz County 2026: Family & Pets | Good Times
Discover the Best of Santa Cruz County 2026 Family & Pets winners, from schools and preschools to veterinarians, pet services, toy stores and more.
7/8 - Jesse Williams Brings Hardcore Heart to Purrrrrrfest
Santa Cruz musician and animal activist Jesse Williams organizes Purrrrrrfest, a benefit for the Santa Cruz Animal Shelter’s Bogey Fund.
7/3 - July 4th pet safety from your local Central Coast animal shelter
Animal experts urge pet owners to prepare for fireworks during the Fourth of July.
