Updated Sept. 13, 2024: County Animal Services adopted 419 animals during the Clear the Shelters campaign from Aug. 10 to Sept. 10 from its Bonita and Carlsbad shelters.
This included 227 dogs and puppies, 168 cats and kittens, 8 rabbits, 8 reptiles, 6 rodents, a cockatiel and a chicken.
“Our staff was delighted for those animals who found homes, many who had been in the shelter for some time, and it certainly was a joyous occasion for the animals and new families. We thank all those people who came out and made a tremendous difference in the lives of those pets,” said Vaughn Maurice, Animal Services director.
“As 419 were adopted, 747 more animals came into the shelter as strays and relinquishments. So, while we cannot minimize the outstanding success of the campaign, shelter overcrowding continues to be a dire issue. The need for fosters and adopters remains high,” he said.
Sweet doggies, kitties, rabbits, roosters, tortoises, pigs and guinea pigs are looking to steal a piece of your heart. As part of the nationwide Clear the Shelters campaign, all adoption fees for the County’s shelters are being waived.
Additionally, San Diego County Animal Services is waiving adoption fees from Aug. 1-10.
This year, the Clear the Shelters campaign is celebrating a decade of helping pets find homes. In September 2023, it surpassed 1 million adoptions. This year’s monthlong campaign will begin Aug 10 and extend through Sept. 10.
“We participate in Clear the Shelters because it’s an important opportunity to find our wonderful animals a wonderful forever home,” said Steve Lujan, interim director. “Helping pair animals and people is one of our highest priorities.”
Find your new best friend by browsing the County shelters’ online animal listings on the Adoptions page. Due to the popularity of this adoption special, Animal Services staff recommend picking out a second and third choice too, just in case your first choice is already adopted.
If you cannot adopt, you can still help. Learn about our fostering program.
Adoption fees are always waived for senior adopters, senior pets and pets that have been waiting for their forever home for 30 days or more.
Walk-in hours are from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday at both the South Shelter, 5821 Sweetwater Road in Bonita, or the North Shelter, 2481 Palomar Airport Road in Carlsbad.
