HSVC

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The Humane Society of Ventura County is a compassionate care shelter and non-profit organization dedicated to the protection and adoption of animals in need throughout Ventura County.

13 Jan 2026

These Cats are Looking for a Soft Place to Land

By Humane Society of Ventura County

Often, the animals who need us most aren't the loudest or the ones who rush to the front of their enclosures. They are the quiet, gentle ones, slowly healing and waiting patiently for someone to take a chance on them. Right now, three extra-special cats under our care are looking for their shot at happily ever after, and we need your help to make their dreams a reality. First up are Silver and Surfer (above). The pair of 8-month-old kittens came to the shelter as strays at the end of 2025. From the moment they arrived, both Silver and Surfer proved to be sweet, affectionate, and loving cats. These two are big snugglers who adore gentle attention, playtime, and being close to their people. After completing the stray hold period unclaimed, our clinic team examined them and discovered early signs of FIP (Feline Infectious Peritonitis), an immune-mediated viral disease in cats. They were immediately placed on a 12-week treatment plan, and we're already seeing encouraging improvement. What Silver and Surfer need now is a quiet, cozy home where they can rest, recover, and complete their treatment in comfort. In return, they will offer their foster family endless cuddles, purrs, and companionship. Their care includes twice-daily oral medication, and all medical care and supplies are provided by the shelter. Once they finish treatment, both cats will be spayed and made available for adoption, ready to start the next chapter of their lives!

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07 Jan 2026

Ozzie Rings in the New Year with his Forever Family

By Humane Society of Ventura County

After spending 328 days waiting at the shelter, Ozzie's is starting off 2026 with so much love! Now affectionately known as Biscuit, this sweet 5-year-old pup has found his forever home with James, Nitaña, and their daughter. We can't think of a pup more deserving of this happy ending!

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07 Jan 2026

Looking Back at 2025: A Year of Compassion, Community, and Lives Changed

By Humane Society of Ventura County

As we reflect on 2025, we are filled with gratitude for the animals who placed their trust in us, the people who advocated for them, and the community that made our work possible. This year was defined not just by numbers, but by second chances, transformations, and moments of care that changed lives.

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30 Dec 2025

Ring in the New Year Safely with Pets

By Humane Society of Ventura County

2026 is almost here! This is an exciting time of year for humans, but it can be very scary for your pets. Check out these tips from the ASPCA Poison Control Center (APCC) to help you and your furry friends prepare for a fun and safe New Year's Eve! Alcohol: New Year's Eve is one of the most common holidays for pets to get into alcohol. Furry friends who ingest any amount of alcohol can be at risk for depression, unsteady walking, vomiting, and, in extreme cases, a drop in blood pressure and temperature. Keep all adult beverages out of reach of your pets to avoid welcoming in the New Year in a vet's office. Fireworks: The loud sounds and bright lights that accompany fireworks can be very scary to furry friends. To prevent potential problems and avoid panicking pets, ensure your animals have a safe and quiet space to spend the night and clean up all remnants of explosives, noisemakers, etc. Marijuana: Curious pets can easily sniff out edible forms of marijuana, such as chocolates or brownies. Ingestion of this drug can cause furry friends to become lethargic and unsteady and can decrease their heart rate and temperature. In extreme cases, it can even cause seizures or death. If you think your pet has ingested any amount of marijuana, contact your veterinarian or the APCC immediately. Identification: With all the hustle and bustle of New Year's Eve celebrations, it is easy for pets to escape and get lost. Be sure your animals have up-to-date ID tags, and consider a microchip. The HSVC offers ID tags for $5 and performs microchipping for $25, including registration. If you are in need of this service, please call the shelter at 805-646-6505 to schedule an appointment. Keep these tips in mind, and you'll be sure to have a safe and happy New Year with your pets! Friendly reminder: HSVC will be closed on New Year's Eve (Wednesday, 12/31) and New Year's Day (Thursday, 01/01). Services will resume on Friday (01/02) at 10 am. Stop by to meet adoptable animals like Guava (pictured), who are still looking for their forever homes!

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22 Dec 2025

Howl-iday Hazards & How to Avoid Them

By Humane Society of Ventura County

This season is a magical time filled with twinkling lights, festive decorations, and plenty of cheer. However, as we revel in the holiday spirit, it's important to remember that this time of year can pose unique safety challenges for our pets. From shiny ornaments to tempting treats, your furry friends might find themselves drawn to the very things that could be dangerous for them. Here's how to keep your pets safe and happy this holiday season.

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22 Dec 2025

Thank You for Spreading the Paw-liday Spirit!

By Humane Society of Ventura County

Above: Shelter pup Doja picking out a new toy (left), HSVC alumni Zuko dropping off donations (left center), and shelter pup Yeti thanking a member of staff at the Crowne Plaza Hotel (right center) We are overjoyed and grateful for the amount of support we received from our community during this year's pet supply drive! Thank you to all who helped spread pawsitivity by donating pet food, toys, and more to benefit animals in need. Your generosity and kindness made a profound difference in the lives of countless furry friends and their caretakers in our community. If you’re inspired to continue supporting our mission in the new year, there are plenty of ways to stay involved! From volunteering at our events to fostering a pet in need, every act of kindness contributes to the well-being of animals in our community. Visit our website and select "Get Involved" at the top of our homepage to view all the ways you can make an impact with us. Those who missed out on the supply drive can still donate items from our Wishlists! Click the button below to help us spoil furry friends in need! Donate Now

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17 Dec 2025

Congratulations, Officer Wagoner!

By Humane Society of Ventura County

The Humane Society of Ventura County is excited to officially introduce the newest member of our Investigations Team, Officer Jordan Wagoner! She was officially sworn in at the Ventura County Courthouse on December 12th and ceremoniously badged by Director of Field Operations Kendra King at the shelter yesterday. Officer Wagoner is joining a prestigious team of Humane Officers that serve all of Ventura County. Together, they support our community by investigating situations of animal abuse, neglect, and cruelty.

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16 Dec 2025

Baja’s Brave Next Chapter: Surgery Complete & Healing Strong

By Humane Society of Ventura County

If you have been following since our clinic team's recent trip to Loreto, Mexico, then you know Baja! Our clinic team met the sweet 7-month-old on the first day of their trip, after she was abandoned at the shelter in Mexico. After further examination, Baja's X-rays revealed she was suffering from a diaphragmatic hernia and a fractured leg, injuries most consistent with being hit by a car. Knowing the extensive care she would need wasn't accessible locally, Dr. Sisk and the team decided to bring Baja back to the US for treatment. We are excited to share an update on this tiny but mighty pup and the incredible progress she's made since coming to HSVC. On Thursday, December 11th, 2025, brave little Baja underwent a complex, life-saving diaphragmatic hernia surgery. The procedure required expert collaboration, and we are deeply grateful to the compassionate veterinary professionals at Oaks Veterinary Urgent Care, Dr. Rachel Wallach and Dr. Carin Ferdowsian, for coming together to give Baja the best chance at recovery. While the surgery was complicated, we're thrilled to report that our fearless girl came through it beautifully.

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