To view our adoptable animals, click on either the cat or dog.
(The website is updated with new information at 5:00 p.m. daily,
so check back frequently, especially if you're searching for an animal!)

The shelter houses both stray and owner-surrendered animals, including dogs, cats, rabbits, and an occasional bird or reptile.  Owners of lost pets are encouraged to come in person to look for their lost pet and to file a lost report as soon as their pet is discovered missing.  If you see an animal on our Web site that may belong to you, please contact our staff as soon as possible during business hours at (310) 458-8594.  After an animal’s hold period is over, unclaimed adoptable animals are made available to find a good home.

Dog Licensing: Santa Monica residents are required to license each of their dogs every year.  First-time dog licenses must be obtained in person at the shelter. A valid rabies certificate, proof of sterility (if applicable), and proof of residency is required to complete licensing.  As of July 1, 2006, the dog license fee is $15.50 for spayed or neutered dogs, and $51.70 for unaltered dogs.  License renewals are due each January 1st and the deadline to avoid a late renewal penalty is March 31st.

Volunteer Program: Community volunteers assist our animal care attendants with a variety of duties, such as tending to the kennels, and exercising and grooming sheltered animals to make them look and feel better while awaiting adoption. Volunteers also seek and collect funds to aid in the care and treatment of sick or injured animals. If you'd like to help, click here to complete and submit an on-line volunteer form. Or call us to talk about your specific interests.

Public Outreach on Animal Care & Safety: Animal Control Officers advise utility companies and postal personnel on issues relating to animal safety on their jobs, and visit schools and youth service agencies. Officers also conduct shelter tours and participate in community events. To request a tour or an event appearance, contact us at shelter@pen.santa-monica.org  or call 458-8594.

Things Getting a Little Wild Out There? In addition to information on domestic animals, we have information for residents about living with wildlife in Santa Monica. Helpful tips are also available that apply specifically to opossums, squirrels and raccoons.

SMPD Mounted Patrol: The city's patrol horses are boarded at the shelter during the unit's seasonal operation, and Animal Control personnel assist in their care and maintenance.