San Diego Humane Society

The San Diego Humane Society (SDHS) is more than just a shelter—it’s a regional powerhouse for animal welfare, rescue, and advocacy. With a mission to create a more humane world by inspiring compassion, SDHS has become a national model for progressive animal care and community engagement.

A Lifeline for Animals in Need

SDHS provides comprehensive services for homeless pets, injured wildlife, and pet families in crisis. Operating across multiple campuses—including San Diego, Escondido, Oceanside, and El Cajon—the organization offers:

• Shelter and adoption services for thousands of animals annually
• Veterinary care, including spay/neuter, vaccinations, and emergency surgeries
• Wildlife rehabilitation through Project Wildlife, treating over 12,000 wild animals each year
• Behavior and training support to help pets stay in loving homes

In Fiscal Year 2025–2026, SDHS reported impactful outcomes across San Diego County, including increased live-release rates and expanded field services.

“More Humane” Campaign: A Vision for the Future

In response to growing challenges in animal welfare, SDHS launched its first-ever comprehensive fundraising initiative: More Humane: The Campaign for Animals. With a goal of $250 million, the campaign has already raised over $220 million to fund:

• Expanded shelter capacity
• Advanced medical facilities
• Community pet support programs
• Education and outreach initiatives

This ambitious effort reflects SDHS’s commitment to keeping pets and families together, especially during times of economic hardship.

Community-Centered Programs

SDHS is deeply embedded in the community, offering services that go beyond traditional sheltering:

• PAWS San Diego: Provides pet food, supplies, and veterinary care to low-income pet owners
• Humane Law Enforcement: Investigates cruelty cases and rescues animals from neglect
• Youth education programs: Teaching compassion and responsible pet ownership
• Disaster response teams: Assisting animals during wildfires and other emergencies

These programs ensure that animal welfare is integrated into broader social support systems, recognizing the deep bond between people and pets.

Transparency and Accountability

SDHS sets a high standard for transparency. Its Municipal Quarterly Impact Reports provide detailed data on shelter outcomes, field services, and community impact across the 14 cities it serves. This commitment to openness builds trust and allows the public to see the tangible results of their support.

The San Diego Humane Society is redefining what it means to care for animals in the 21st century. Through innovation, compassion, and community partnerships, SDHS is not only saving lives—it’s shaping a more humane future for all.

Whether you’re looking to adopt, volunteer, donate, or simply learn more, SDHS offers countless ways to get involved and make a difference.

FAQs: San Diego Humane Society

1. What is the mission of the San Diego Humane Society?

SDHS aims to create a more humane world by inspiring compassion and advancing the welfare of animals and people.

2. Where are SDHS campuses located?

SDHS operates campuses in San Diego, Escondido, Oceanside, and El Cajon, serving all of San Diego County.

3. What services does SDHS provide?

SDHS offers:

• Animal sheltering and adoptions
• Veterinary care and spay/neuter services
• Wildlife rehabilitation through Project Wildlife
• Humane law enforcement
• Pet behavior and training support
• Community pet assistance through PAWS San Diego

4. What is Project Wildlife?

Project Wildlife is SDHS’s wildlife rehabilitation program, treating over 12,000 injured, orphaned, and sick wild animals annually.

5. How can I adopt a pet from SDHS?

You can view adoptable animals online or visit one of SDHS’s campuses. The adoption process includes an application, counseling, and a fee that supports ongoing care.

6. Does SDHS offer low-cost veterinary services?

Yes, SDHS provides affordable spay/neuter, vaccinations, and medical care through community clinics and partnerships.

7. What is the “More Humane” campaign?

It’s SDHS’s first comprehensive fundraising initiative, aiming to raise $250 million to expand shelter capacity, medical services, and community programs. Over $220 million has already been raised.

8. How can I volunteer or donate?

You can sign up to volunteer or make a donation through the SDHS website. Opportunities include animal care, fostering, education, and event support.

9. Does SDHS respond to animal cruelty cases?

Yes. SDHS’s Humane Law Enforcement team investigates cruelty, neglect, and abandonment cases across San Diego County.

10. Is SDHS a no-kill shelter?

Yes. SDHS is committed to maintaining a zero euthanasia rate for healthy and treatable animals, making it one of the largest no-kill shelters in the U.S.