As National Dog Adoption Month unfolds, the San Diego County Department of Animal Services extends a heartwarming treat to potential pet parents. For the entire month of October, they are waving adoption fees for dogs that have spent more than 14 days in their shelters, offering a chance for these loyal companions to find their forever homes.
The shelters in San Diego County currently teem with animals, particularly dogs, patiently awaiting loving families. In a bid to alleviate overcrowding and give these dogs the homes they deserve, the department has made the decision to waive the adoption fees.
All dogs adopted from County shelters will come with essential services, including spaying or neutering, vaccinations, a microchip, and a one-year license for dogs residing within the service area.
To explore the delightful range of animals available for adoption, from cats and dogs to turtles and guinea pigs, interested individuals are encouraged to visit the County Animal Services’ Adoptions page. Staff at Animal Services advise prospective adopters to consider multiple options to ensure a perfect match, should their first choice be unavailable.
Walk-in hours are convenient, with visiting hours from 1 to 4 p.m. on Tuesday through Friday and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Two shelters await visitors’ arrival, including the South Shelter at 5821 Sweetwater Road in Bonita and the North Shelter at 2481 Palomar Airport Road in Carlsbad. For those who prefer to plan ahead, adoption applications can be filled out online or obtained at the shelter.
The primary mission of the County Department of Animal Services is to provide exemplary care within their shelters and, more importantly, to secure loving and permanent homes for every healthy and treatable animal. The department is dedicated to facilitating lasting bonds between animals and their adoptive families. In addition to adoption, animal fostering is another avenue through which animals can learn to adapt to a home environment, socialize with people, and interact with other animals.
The overarching goal of the Department of Animal Services is to ensure the well-being and safety of both people and animals. They envision a thriving community where every resident of San Diego County, whether human or animal, has access to vital animal care and support services.
