Adoption Services

We have temporarily paused the intake of stray animals after hours for the safety of our staff, shelter animals, and the public. We know this is a valuable service for our community and are working to offer it again soon. We appreciate your patience and apologize for any inconvenience.

Our shelter acquires animals in a variety of ways:

1. Transfers from rescue partners: We are proud to work closely with neighboring shelters, rescues, and other animal welfare organizations from California and beyond to receive transfers from their facilities. As a compassionate care shelter, we do not euthanize for space. Our shelter accepts transfers from other shelters that are overcrowded with animals looking for homes.

2. Owner surrenders: At the HSVC, we know life can be unpredictable. If you find yourself falling into tough times, our staff offers resources that can help pet owners keep furry friends in their homes and out of our shelter. As a last resort, our shelter accepts animals surrendered by their owners with proof of pet ownership and after passing an intake evaluation. Surrendering your animal is a free service, however, donations are encouraged.

Please note that we DO NOT accept walk-in owner-surrendered animals. If you need to surrender your animal, please call 805-646-6505, click one of the buttons below to fill out a canine or feline owner surrender form, and submit it to [email protected]. You will be contacted within 2-3 business days after submitting the form. Please note that this does not guarantee we will accept your pet as an owner-surrendered animal. 

Canine Surrender Form       Feline Surrender Form 

3. Strays: Our shelter only takes in stray animals from the Ojai Valley if they have a microchip or collar with a tag. Otherwise, strays should go back outside or be taken to Ventura County Animal Services. They are located at 600 Aviation Drive in Camarillo, CA, and they are open Tuesday - Sunday from 9:00 am - 6:00 pm. 

4. Humane Officer investigation cases: Our Humane Officers investigate cases of animal abuse, neglect, and cruelty. Animals under investigation may be signed over or seized in the field by Humane Officers if it is in the best interest of the animals. These animals, often referred to as "case animals", are then brought to the HSVC for further evaluation and medical assistance. They will be made available for adoption depending on their health, temperament, and case status.

5. Evacuations: For years, the HSVC has functioned as an evacuation center for animals in need of refuge in times of emergency and disaster. As always, we offer our disaster relief and sheltering services at absolutely no charge to anyone who needs our help. 

Adoption Fees and Policies:

Please note that horses are viewable by appointment only. To make an appointment to view our adoptable horses, please contact our Equine Manager, Christina Malleck, at 805-364-1150 or via email at [email protected].

The Adoption Process:

Our open adoption process focuses on bringing people and animals together. Animal Care Associates are on-site ready to help connect you with the pet of your dreams. Once you've found your perfect match, our Client Service Representatives will help you complete the adoption process and answer any further questions. View our live feed of available dogs, cats, and other animals below to get started, or stop by the shelter any time during visiting hours Monday through Saturday from 10 am to 4:30 pm. Below are our three easy steps to bringing a new furry friend home!

1. Come visit us! No appointment or application is required. Those interested in adopting will be asked to fill out a simple interest form to help us match you to your new family member. Note that you must be 18 years or older to visit the animals without a parent.
2. Meet with our Animal Care Associates and visit the animals
3. Bring your ID and proof of address for same-day adoptions. 

Equine Adoption:

Those interested in adopting an equine can learn more about each of our adoptable horses by viewing their MyRightHorse profiles below. Potential adopters can submit an adoption interest questionnaire on MyRightHorse or click the button below to send one via our website.

View Available Horses    Adoption Interest Questionnaire

Ready to adopt? Click here to view our adoptable animals!