Adoptions
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Start Your Search Online
Have a look at the animals in our shelter by using the form below.
-
Make one, two or three choices: pets are available for
adoption at the shelter on a first come, first serve basis.
- Keep notes: be sure to write down the identifying information for animals you like.
- In the below section: click the circle on the left of the shelter you want to look in. You must select either North, South or All Shelters otherwise you may receive an error on the page.
- If a pet has a kennel number listed as SFOST or NFOST, it means they are staying at a foster home and not at the shelter. To set up a time to meet these pets, please email dasplacement@sdcounty.ca.gov. All other pets are available at the shelter on a first come, first served basis.
High-Public Interest Animal Adoption Protocol:
This process has been designed to ensure a fair and equitable opportunity for all customers interested in adopting a High-Public Interest Animal, which include popular or highly sought-after animals such as puppies, kittens, and other animals with high demand. We strive to provide a transparent and consistent method for everyone to have a chance to adopt these animals.
1. Raffle Participation:
- Eligibility: Customers who are interested in adopting one of the "high value" animals (such as puppies, kittens, or other highly sought-after animals) will be advised that they can come to the facility on the available date between 09:30 AM and 09:45 AM to participate in the raffle.
- Ticket Distribution: Upon arrival, customers will receive one raffle ticket per animal, per family to ensure equal chances for each participant.
- Location: Customers are asked to remain in the lobby area to hear the announcement of the winners.
- Timeframe: At 09:45 AM, a greeter will call out the winning ticket numbers for each animal.
2. Winner Verification:
- Winner Selection: The winner will be announced promptly at 09:45 AM to ensure a smooth and timely process.
3. Adoption Process:
- Animal Interaction: The winner will be invited to interact with the animal in question and move forward with the adoption process if they are satisfied with the match.
- In Case of Decline: If the winner decides not to proceed with the adoption after interacting with the animal, a second raffle ticket will be drawn from the same animal's raffle bucket to offer a second chance at adoption.
4. Multiple Animals for Adoption (if applicable):
- Separate Raffles for Each Animal: If multiple high-demand animals are available on the same day, there will be separate raffle buckets for each animal, allowing for a fair and organized process.
- Multiple Entries: Customers are allowed to enter multiple raffles for different animals, as long as they follow the same process (one ticket per animal per family). This ensures that everyone has a fair opportunity to adopt their desired animal without restricting their chances.
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I found a pet I’m interested in, what do I do?
- Note the information on the individual animal's page including the ID number, kennel, tag, and bring it with you to the shelter.
- If your choice is available, the greeter will give
you an application (if needed) and instructions.
- If
your first choice is taken, look around. We have plenty of pets
waiting for adoption!
More On Adoption »
Adoption Applications »
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Help your loved
ones choose their own pet!
Adoption gift certificates are
available at County shelters.
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