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    San Diego Humane Society

    3.2 (43 reviews)
    Closed • 10:00 am - 5:00 pm
    Updated 2 weeks ago

    Services - San Diego Humane Society

    Animal shelters

    Pet adoption

    San Diego Humane Society Photos

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    Reviews With Photos

    Happy kitty
    Autumn B.

    2 years ago, our neighborhood senior feral kitty was badly beaten up by a neighbor's indoor/outdoor cat. Her tail was stripped, and I was concerned it would be amputated. Another neighbor had previously had her spayed. I took her to SDHS's Oceanside location. They were able to treat her tail, shaved her belly to confirm the spay, and trimmed her ear (we now refer to her as lop eared Lucy). Considering her advanced age of at least 13 at the time, I brought her home and rather than releasing her back outside she retired from feral life and now enjoys her days basking in the sun, eating as much as she wants, and ruling the roost. The kind people at SDHS gave this old feral girl a second chance. She's a funny little kitty and very low maintenance after years on the street. I love this silly little girl. Thank you again!

    Roxy
    Marcus F.

    We were looking for a shelter kitten and found our new family member here at the Oceanside Shelter. This is a nice clean place with plenty of well-treated pets looking to be adopted. Staff was friendly and organized. One thing to note is that although there were several staffers working on a Saturday, it did take a while to actually get a viewing time. The paperwork was fast. * There is limited seating inside. So you might have to stand a while

    It makes me sad that anyone could write a bad review about this place. It's made up of extremely compassionate humans who are just doing their best to help these animals. And they are phenomenal at what they do! The SDHS Oceanside campus quite literally saved my cats life. Bilba was attacked by another animal (most likely a coyote) and was brought into their care in horrible shape. They ended up needing to amputate her back leg, and she is recovering now and sooo much happier as a tripaw girl! I am forever indebted to the medical team and all staff at SDHS. No amount of thanks is enough. When my kids get a little older I am definitely going to become a volunteer as a small way to give back. Thank you, thank you, THANK YOU to SDHS Oceanside for not giving up on sweet Bilba and going above and beyond for all of these animals. You are the people who make this world a better place.

    Shy Lulu sleeping in bed on night one.
    Tracy H.

    Three weeks ago our beloved fur baby passed away. My heart has been shattered. I wasn't sure if I wanted another cat/kitten. I've been talking with my fur baby asking him if it would be ok. That we weren't replacing him but giving our love to a fur baby who had no home. Honestly felt we were getting signs that it was ok. We first went to the Escondido site. Felt it was a little chaotic. Didn't really click with any of the cats. Decided to go to the Oceanside site on Airport Rd. When you first walk in, we were greeted by two really nice people working the front desk. We told them we were there to look at cats. They directed us to the room where they were at, along with bunnies and guinea pigs. You walk through a little store that has basic supplies. We walked around and looked at all the cats. A few caught our eye. One very handsome fellow, Diego, would have been our 1st choice. Unfortunately he doesn't like other cats. We had decided we wanted two. So we had to pass on this handsome guy. Oh but his purrs were so charming. My husband found a pair of sisters that grabbed his attention. Needless to say, Lulu & Pinta came home with us. Checking in to adopt was super easy. The wait was a little long. But there were short staffed so we waited. We were able to meet with Lulu & Pinta. And we for sure decided to bring them home. The adoption process was very thorough and pretty quick. We were told a little bit more about the girls and their heath. We were also given a bag of food for them. All through the month of November, adoptions for cats are $20. I just wish when people got a pet, that their lives are as long as ours. Keep them and love them for their lifetime.

    Reanna M.

    Had a wonderful experience adopting our newest kitty! The staff was beyond helpful and the volunteers were kind. The staff was extraordinarily patient as we took our time finding the perfect match. Obi (previously Spielberg) has already adjusted so well to us as his new family, and really enjoys following his big brother around 24/7! And of course has been playing with lots of toys and wreaking the best havoc. We are so grateful to the humane society for helping us adopt our kitty :,)

    Our sweet Niblet
    Tracy R.

    They saved my dogs life. Best medical team! Thank you everyone!! They care. There are programs that could help others in different and difficult situations. Marcus, Niblet and I thank you all. Walking into guest relations over to medical and everything in between. The best people with the biggest hearts work there.

    First day with my new pet.
    Tammy V.

    I have never had a pet before. Now that I am an empty nester I decided to get a cat. I searched the internet for info and found the Humane Society in Oceanside. The staff were very helpful and kind. I told them what I was hoping to find and they showed me the kittens. I chose one and began the adoption process. They gave me a lot of resources for caring for a kitten. They provided a carrier box with a blanket for me to transport my kitten home. They gave me a bag of Purina cat kibble. And to top it off they waived the adoption fees because I am a military veteran. I was so grateful for the help in going through this process. The staff even clapped and congratulated me as I left the building. If you are feeling intimidated by the process of adoption, because it's unfamiliar, then this is the place to go. They will help you every step of the way. They won't judge you, question your choices, or try to push some other pet on you . I left there feeling very positive

    Uni in Kitty Prison

    I recently tried to adopt one of their "trouble case" and was denied. I was not due to me as an adopter, they were willing to find me another cat in their system, but they decided this was a hostile cat. deigning her to be released to a good home who would work with her on her terms. Clearly a power grab by people with a limited chance to control events taking it out on the cat who has been at the shelter for 6 month, return twice with no one really working on her behavior issues. think twice before supporting them. Kitten season will soon be upon us and they will make their $$$ on the free inventory off of irresponsible pet owners and an older cat gets stuck in the system marked as a behavioral issue cat and they decide the best home.

    Cat that was euthanized the same day
    Brooke P.

    Never bring stray animals here, they are a high kill shelter. We brought in a stray cat and it was euthanized the same day, they didn't call to warn us or give us a chance to bring it to the vet despite telling them we would. I called a week later to check on the cat and they lied to me, saying it was still alive. I called another week later and was finally told it was killed the same day I brought it in. The cat was eating and in good spirits when we brought it in and they wouldn't tell us why it was killed. I also will never understand why I was lied to on the phone. Please do not bring stray animals here, there are other responsible shelters that care about animals and do not euthanize.

    Staff thoughtfully provided towels for the cat carriers without being asked
    Isobel L.

    This review is for the Oceanside Small Animal Campus of the San Diego Humane Society. We had a wonderful experience with the Humane Society when my daughter and her boyfriend adopted a cat from their San Diego animal shelter. We were incredibly impressed with the high level of care and concern shown to all the animals up for adoption. We even called the San Diego campus the Ritz-Carlton of animal shelters due to its beautiful decor and impeccable cleanliness. So, when it came time to find a home for two cats belonging to a family member who could no longer care for them, we immediately contacted the San Diego Humane Society. We were directed to the Oceanside small animal campus (there is another campus in Oceanside for dogs.) The staff at the Oceanside campus (especially Deborah, Bree and Kaylin) were incredibly helpful in arranging our appointment to relinquish the cats and ensured that euthanasia is not an option *at all* for their organization (the only excpetion being terminal illness of the animal). Every animal in their care receives veterinary exams and immunizations, as well as room and board. (There is a nominal charge for relinquishing the animals.) The staff took a very thorough history for each cat to ensure that they find a good match for adoption. They asked about history, preferences and personality of each cat. Every single staff member at this campus showed a very high level of professionalism and concern for all the animals in their care. We can rest assured that our cats will find a happy home and be well taken care of in the meantime. While we were waiting for our appointment, a gentleman came in with a stray cat he had found in the neighborhood. They were able to take the cat in right away. So if you're looking for a cat to adopt, found a homeless cat on the street, or have to find a new home for your cat, San Diego Humane Society is the cat's meow.

    Today was an extremely difficult day! Had to put my fur baby down & the staff at 572 Airport Road were so comforting & supportive! I am forever grateful for their help today in my grief. Wrigley was in great hands for her euthanasia services... so caring & gentle. Special Thank yous to Hannah & Amareah! (Hope I spelled her name correctly) They made my day better! I sure miss my sweet dog....but they went above and beyond to make me feel comforted!

    Our new fur babies Will & Grace

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    2 months ago

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    5 months ago

    Good people working there - so helpful - many cute dogs that need homes - young and old - adopt don't buy !

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    10 months ago

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    3 years ago

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    Emma M.

    We're so happy Niblet is doing well and is back home with you, Tracy!

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    4 months ago

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    2 years ago

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    4 years ago

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    Thank you for your support!

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    3 years ago

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    Thank you for your support AND for adopting!!

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    4 years ago

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    San Diego Humane Society Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - San Diego Humane Society

    Why are some pets not adoptable and when would they be?

    Lydia, thank you for visiting our Oceanside Campus! Some pets in our care are not currently available for a variety of reasons, including pets serving stray hold periods, young pets who are not old enough to be adopted yet, and pets receiving… 

    Do you accept the surrender of an 11 year old male 1/2 feral cat? We are moving out of the rural area of Fallbrook.

    Hi Voula, information about relinquishing or rehoming a pet can be found here: https://www.sdhumane.org/programs/rehome-a-pet/. If you do need to relinquish this cat, please start by scheduling a pre-admission phone appointment here:… 

    Don’t See Your Question? Ask Away!

    Review Highlights - San Diego Humane Society

    “Then an adoption agent got to us and took out the guinea pigs we asked for and gave us a little paperwork.”

    Mentioned in 2 reviews

    Read more highlights

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    Last Chance at Life - Adoptable dog Wishbone!

    Last Chance at Life

    (7 reviews)

    Lcal is a sinking ship. Current leadership values policy and black and white rules over what is…read morebest for the dogs and the families that love them. Let me tell you my story as an 8 year supporter of lcal. We adopted our first dog (a boxer) through the founder, lisa (who is an absolute angel) in 2016. We loved our dog deeply until she passed away in 2022. When she passed, I started volunteering weekly with the rescue, walking dogs, trying to fill the void that my dog's passing left. I learned more about rescue and started fostering dogs through lcal. We took 4 foster dogs from intake through adoption, one of the fosters staying with us for 6 months! I also attended adoption events with these fosters, donating hundreds of hours promoting the rescue. I attended fund raisers, donated supplies and cash, and supported the lcal thrift store. I was invested in the mission. In December, I told the foster coordinator that we are looking for a dog to permanently add to the family, ideally a boxer between the ages of 2-5. I would send her listings from shelters, and she would explain why each dog was not going to work for lcal to pull for me. I appreciated her advice and was waiting patiently for a right fit. When she texted last week asking me to foster a boxer, Tyson, I was overjoyed! I expressed to her that we would love to and that we would hopefully adopt Tyson. Unfortunately lcal decided to advertise him on social media the next day and quickly got multiple applications from well vetted adopters. We were told on a Sunday (after having tyson for 4 days) that we needed to decide by Monday if we wanted to adopt. Otherwise he would go to a meet and greet on Wednesday and likely be adopted. On Monday evening, I texted the foster coordinator telling her that I had some questions about the adoption. She did not get back to me until Tuesday morning. We discussed my concerns (we have 4 cats and I ideally wanted more time to see how Tyson would interact with them) but I clearly told her we wanted to keep Tyson. She said she would ask the board for more time. Later that afternoon, I was told that because I wasn't sure, they were moving forward with the other adoption and I was no longer eligible to adopt Tyson. I was in shock. I responded that I wanted the dog and that I had put aside any uncertainty and please can we adopt Tyson. I was told no and that they would immediately come pick him up wherever I was. The lcal president contacted me and was so over the top harsh and rude, I felt like I was being treated like a criminal. My family is heartbroken. Just as we were bonding with what was likely the perfect dog for our family, he was forcibly taken away. Shame on you lcal. You've put deadlines and policy above what is best in complex situations. I understand the reasons for your policy, but you refused to have even the slightest flexibility for a long time supporter. You wouldn't even give me a few hours to get my questions answered before moving on to the other adopter who hadn't even met Tyson. You are burning your fosters, the very backbone of your organization.

    Thank you LCAL for connecting us to the dog of our dreams! Our family found your matching process…read morestraightforward and supportive. Your staff and volunteers were also incredibly helpful as we transitioned him into our home. We didn't expect you to take care of the details for his neutering appointment, but you did. You went above and beyond and we will be supporting your work and thrift store for years to come.

    San Diego County Animal Shelter - Had to wait for bath as recently neutered

    San Diego County Animal Shelter

    (96 reviews)

    Long overdue but here's my review. Last year, when we visited this animal shelter, it looked very…read moreclean and the customer service was great. We had visited other shelters that day but this one was very impressive. The staff was very professional and answered all of our questions. They also let us meet multiple dogs and it looked like they really took care of their animals. We couldn't be happier with our little guy today. It's crazy to think a year ago we picked him up but he's a member of our family now.

    I'll die on this hill...adopt, don't shop…read more In May 2022, I said goodbye to my sweet 15.5 year old golden retriever/yellow lab. She had a wonderful life...but it was her time. Fast forward to 2024, I entertained the idea of somehow welcoming a dog back into my life...I wasn't sure how, but I wanted to get back into the doggy world...and that's when I discovered all different opportunities at the SDCAS.... 1. Dog Day Out- this is a fantastic program to take approved dogs out for the day and market them to the world as being available for adoption. These dogs are sweet, friendly, non-reactive, and just love being out of the shelter. SDCAS gives you everything you need for the day. Our first experience was with Sal- a super friendly pitbull. He loved getting out and proudly wore his 'adopt me' vest! Our second Dog Day Out was with Zane- a beautiful, sweet rottie/husky mix. While we were out with Zane, we decided to foster him. Speaking of fostering.... 2. Foster- if you've ever wanted to foster a dog, this is the place to do it. They provide everything you could possible need. This is a great way to learn more about a dog, post pictures and tidbits about the dog on their website so others learn about them and hopefully adopt them. Fostering saves lives! 3. Adopt- We were a foster fail after a week with Zane. We got to know him SO much and he is absolutely perfect for our family. We wouldn't have known this unless we fostered... Highly recommend SDCAS! 5 stars!

    Cats & Crystals - Items for purchase

    Cats & Crystals

    (66 reviews)

    My daughter wanted to check this place out so our family of 4 (3 year old, and 9 year old) decided…read moreto check it out. We weren't really greeted but asked if we had a reservation. Reservations are made online, walk-ins may or may not have availability depending on how many spots they have open for that time and the size of your party. We had to fill out a waiver before checking in. We were the first group of the day, since we arrived before opening. We were asked to sanitize our hands before heading into the cat room. Then we were told to stay behind the line and remove our shoes. The room definitely smelled like cat litter but we didn't see any litter boxes. We had a bit of alone time maybe 10 mins before the next group arrived. There were a few older cats but mostly kittens. All kittens were pretty playful. The older cats preferred either to be petted or left alone. Right after the second group walked in we were asked to keep it down or we could be asked to leave. I didn't think we were being loud and she could have asked us to keep it down without "threatening" to kick us out. We have three cats at home and our kids were quite respectful with the kitties. Anyhow, we did our best to keep it down and enjoy the remainder of our 30 min visit. ($15pp for 30 min during the week). When our time was up, the employee said it was time to go and waited for us to put our shoes on and escorted us out. As you enter/exit the building they have a little cashless cat store with cat related memorabilia. My daughters really enjoyed the experience. We weren't looking to adopt but enjoyed the company of the cats. I would consider returning IF I was going to adopt a cat but not likely for a long time. Also, I just didn't really care for the employee. Go check out the coffee shop next door- Jitters. They have an awesome breakfast burrito. You can't take food or drinks in but you can enjoy before or after your experience. Worth a stop if you like cats but can't have any or you're looking to adopt one. I suppose it could be good therapy too.

    We came here for a birthday celebration and had so much fun! Unfortunately we are not in a position…read moreto adopt a cat but this was an awesome way to get some cuddles and play in anyway! The lounge area is so cute and there are plenty of toys to play with the cats. The person working there was so kind and came over and told us a little background on some of the older cats and answered all of our questions. You can tell they really make sure the cats are respected and give them plenty of high options to get away from some of the excited younger guests. The gift shop was really cute and full of unique items and I'll definitely be back to do some Christmas shopping for my cat loving friends! Highly recommend this place and would love to come back again.

    Hope2K9 Foundation

    Hope2K9 Foundation

    (77 reviews)

    Golden Hill

    The Hope2K9 adoption experience was exceptional…read more The pup that we rescued (Freyja) was full of love and nervous energy. We decided to rescue her a few days before Hope2K9 had an open spot to start her training. When we brought Freyja home from the rescue we learned that she was part shark and part sled dog. On our first walk she was trying to pull us up the street with the force of an entire team of sled dogs. When we got home from the walk we gave her a "indestructible dog toy" which she managed to destroy within 5 minutes. At this point we were nervous about the potential challenges we were going to be facing with training. During the 3 week training process Cam kept us updated on our pups progress. The second night we received a short video of Cam walking a well behaved Freyja. The 2 in person training sessions were well organized and covered all the commands and how to leverage the training tools used to train our pup. The experience did not end with the 3 week training because Hope2K9 has been there to answer our questions.

    I am so happy I found Maddie through hope2k9 adoption program. She is an absolute wonderful dog and…read moreI am truly lucky I found her. It has been one year since I adopted Maddie and that is why this review is over due! Hope2k9 trains rescued dogs, teaches them good manners and social skills. I couldn't be more pleased with finding my forever best friend. I definitely will go back to foster or adopt another dog. Not only do they work very hard at training they also allow you to visit for more training if you want. This is a wonderful rescue and I couldn't be more happier with my pup!

    San Diego Humane Society - animalshelters - Updated October 2026

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