Adoption Process
Adoptions are completed in person on a first-come, first-served basis. Review our adoption process below for more detailed information.
Adoptable animals can be visited at all of our campus locations from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Tuesday - Sunday. To adopt a pet, keep these tips in mind:
- Adopters must be at least 18 years of age, verified by a valid government issued photo identification.
- If you already know which pet(s) you'd like to meet or adopt, please check in when you arrive on campus. An adoption counselor will then meet with you on a first-come, first-served basis, introduce you to the pet(s) you're interested in and help complete your adoption.
- We suggest browsing our adoptable animals on our website prior to your visit, but you are always welcome to look in person when you arrive!
- If you don’t find a match on our website or when you visit, please check animals looking for homes through our rescue partners and by local families looking to rehome their pets.
Step 1. View Available Pets Online
Begin the process by viewing our website’s Available Pets page and finding an animal you’re interested in adopting!
Animal Introductions
San Diego Humane Society only completes dog-to-dog introductions (where an adoptable dog in our care meets a potential adopter’s resident dog) in special circumstances, based on the behaviors displayed by the dog(s) in our care or by the owned dog.
- Dog-to-Dog Introductions
- Cat-to-Cat Introductions
- Dog-to-Cat Introductions
- Children-to-Dog Introductions
Additional Considerations
Before bringing an additional pet into your home, we recommend assessing whether this will enrich your current pet’s life. We’re here to help! Our adoption counselors can answer questions and provide guidance during your visit.
Step 2. Visit Us In Person!
All of our campus locations are open for walk-in adoptions during regular adoption hours. Feel free to visit us anytime! Here are a few things to note when you come in to adopt:
- Adopters must be at least 18 years of age, verified by a valid government issued photo identification.
- Adoptions are on first-come, first-served basis.
- Like many businesses, we are experiencing a staffing shortage which has resulted in longer than normal wait times to meet with an adoption counselor.
- Once you meet with an adoption counselor, completing the adoption process typically takes one hour.
Step 3. Complete the Adoption
If you've found a great match, an adoption counselor will walk you through the process of signing the adoption contract! If you would like to adopt, please be prepared to bring your new family member home the same day.
During the checkout process, you will have the opportunity to ask the adoption counselor questions about training and get tips on helping your new pet adjust to your home. If the animal you are interested in has any medical or behavioral conditions, we will also arrange a pre-adoption consultation with one of our veterinarians or trainers.
Resource Directory
We've compiled tips, tricks and resources to help you take the very best care of your pet. Whether it's training tips, wellness information or financial resources, we're here to answer your pet-related questions. If you need help finding the information you're looking for, please give us a call at 619-299-7012.
