Adopt a Pet in San Diego

Open early on Labor Day, September 7th, 2026: 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Normal Hours resume on Tuesday, September 8th, 2026 at 12 p.m. 

Open hours:

Monday – Thursday from 12 p.m. – 6 p.m.

Friday – Sunday from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Last application is accepted at 5:15 p.m.

 

Adoptable Dogs

Dogs

Adoptable Dogs at Helen Woodward Animal Center
See All Dogs

Adoptable Cats

Cats

Adoptable Cats at Helen Woodward Animal Center
See All Cats

Feline BOGO starting now!

Adopt two kittens or cats, we waive the adoption fee for the second one.

*Microchip fee not included. Approved application required. If fees differ, higher fee applies and lower fee is waived. Exclusions apply.

Meet Our Pet Of The Week

Daisy Mae's a Lover not a Fighter

Every orphan pet deserves a loving home. But no orphan pet deserves it more than Daisy Mae. Daisy Mae is a 2-year-old Boxer blend with a huge heart and horrible past. She started her life as a victim of a Central Valley dogfighting ring. There, her handlers made her perform as a “bait dog.” Bait dogs are pups who, due to their gentle nature, are used to train in aggression in more assertive canines. Daisy Mae’s former owners cracked her teeth and kept her emaciated so she couldn’t fight back. They kept her tied up outside by the muzzle which caused her fur to fall out. Shortly after her second birthday, she was dumped on the side of the road somewhere in the Central Valley. There, she was picked up and sent to Helen Woodward Animal Center where she could be rehabilitated. Now, after several weeks of treatment, Daisy Mae’s back and better than ever. She’s still a little shy as she continues to heal her heart, but she’s still the loving girl she always was. If you want to help this sweet girl have a brighter future, adopt Daisy Mae today!

 

Hashbrown is waiting to meet you at Helen Woodward Animal Center.  He has been altered and is up-to-date on all of his vaccinations. He is microchipped for identification as with all pets adopted from Helen Woodward Animal Center.

Helen Woodward Animal Center is located at 6461 El Apajo Road in Rancho Santa Fe. Kennels are open Monday to Thursday from  12 p.m. to 6 p.m. and Friday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information call 858-756-4117, option #1.

Helen Woodward Animal Center pets come from a variety of sources, such as the transfer of animals from public shelters to relieve overcrowding, working with local dog and cat rescues, as well as owner surrender. Every animal in our pet adoption program has received a medical examination, spay or neuter surgery, vaccinations, tons of TLC and a microchip. Our goal is to adopt our pets into loving and permanent homes. Helen Woodward Animal Center Adoption Counselors are here to help you choose a pet who will be your perfect match for life.

 

WANT TO ADOPT?

Download the animal adoption application and fill it out before you arrive!

Thank You to Our Official Food & Treat Partner

More Information About Adoption

Additional Resources

GET IN CONTACT WITH US!

Open early on Labor Day, September 7th, 2026: 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Normal Hours resume on Tuesday, September 8th, 2026 at 12 p.m. 

Open Hours:

Monday-Thursday from 12 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Friday-Sunday from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Last application is accepted at 5:15 p.m.

P.O. Box 64
6461 El Apajo Road
Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92067

858-756-4117 ext. 1

Due to Hurricane Hilary, all  departments will be closing at 3pm today.  Stay safe!