Rehome a Pet

We understand that giving up a pet is one of the most difficult decisions and our trained staff is here to help.  Whenever possible we encourage pet owners to explore all options before surrendering a pet.  Shelters can be stressful environments for animals accustomed to living in a home.  Our staff is always available to counsel owners on ways to keep their pets in the home or, if possible, rehome them themselves.  Please give yourself a few weeks to place the animal in a good home, and never give away your pet to someone without thoroughly screening the person, asking for references and asking for a fee.

Pet Surrender Resources

If you need training recommendations, email us at [email protected] for a list of trainers in the area.

Have you tried to rehome the animal yourself?
Adopt-A-Pet Rehome Link
Post on NextDoor
Rescueme.org
Post on Social Media pages like Facebook or Instagram

Military Members
Dogs On Deployment


Search Pet Friendly Housing in Santa Barbara
BADRAP: Renting with your Dog
BADRAP: Insurance Resources
People with Pets Search Engine

Medical Resource
SB Humane & Care4Paws help with low cost/affordable medical concerns

If you are unsure about what options are available for you, please call and speak with our staff at (805) 688-8224. We understand that finding a new home for your pet is not always possible. If surrender is your best option, please note that all surrenders to SYV Humane Society & DAWG are done by appointment only and urgent or same-day surrenders cannot be accommodated. We are not an open admission facility and once we receive your questionnaire, we will let you know if we are able to set up a medical and behavioral evaluation. We must consider adequate housing, staffing and other resources for each individual surrender, and it may be up to 3 weeks before your appointment date.

If you cannot find a home for your dog, please fill out the relinquishment questionnaire. Please email [email protected] with some photos of your pet. Our professionally trained staff will evaluate your individual animal’s needs and determine if SYV Humane Society & DAWG is able to accept your dog into our adoption program. Once your appointment request has been processed, we will contact you regarding the surrender of your pet. The following questionnaire will help us assess our ability to place your dog into a new home. Shelter staff will need as much information as possible about your pet to determine if we can accept your pet into our adoption program.